I’ve got a soft spot for recipes that save the day when my fridge is full of random odds and ends. These leftover mashed potato cheese puffs are exactly that kind of magic. They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and the cheese pulls? Oh, those are the reason my family hovers around the oven like kids waiting for cookies. What I love most is how forgiving this recipe feels. Got leftover potatoes? Great. A block of cheddar that’s been staring at you from the back of the fridge? Toss it in. I’ve even added a handful of spinach once and pretended it was a “green” choice. Spoiler: nobody complained.
They’re more than just tasty snacks though. Think of them as little edible life hacks. I’ve packed them up for work lunches, used them as last-minute appetizers when friends popped over, and yes—sneaked one cold from the fridge the next morning (don’t judge me, it was worth it). And if you’re the kind of person who likes planning ahead, you’ll be happy to know they freeze beautifully. Bake a batch, freeze half, and pull them out for those weeks when cooking feels like climbing Everest.
So, if you’re craving something simple, cheesy, and ridiculously satisfying, this recipe is waiting for you. It’s my little reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time25 minutesmins
Total Time40 minutesmins
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Keywords: Healthy Finger Foods, healthy finger foods party, Healthy Freezer Meals Make Ahead, Make Ahead And Freeze Meals, make ahead appetizer recipes, make ahead lasagna recipe, Recipe Of The Day
Servings: 12puffs
Author: Linda
Ingredients
2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a muffin tin.
In a large bowl, stir together the mashed potatoes, cheddar, Parmesan, eggs, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley until combined.
Spoon the mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy around the edges.
Cool for 5 minutes before removing from the tin. Serve warm or pack for later.