Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy these crispy mashed potato cheese bites that are sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering! With a golden, crunchy exterior and a gooey, cheesy center, these addictive treats are the perfect appetizer or side dish to complement your holiday feast. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, they're bound to become a new family favorite!

Sabrina Holt

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2025-12-02T11:29:42.467Z

These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Not only do they make a fantastic appetizer, but they can also be enjoyed as a side dish. The crispy coating and cheesy filling create a delightful experience in every bite!

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are not just for Thanksgiving; they make a fantastic addition to any gathering. Whether you're hosting a holiday party, a game day get-together, or simply enjoying a family meal, these tasty bites will delight guests of all ages. Their versatility allows them to be served as appetizers, side dishes, or even a delightful snack. You can easily whip them up ahead of time and reheat them, making them an ideal choice for stress-free entertaining.

The golden, crispy exterior is just the start. Once you take a bite, the gooey, cheesy center will have everyone reaching for more. Pair them with dipping sauces like ranch or marinara for an extra flavor kick. These puffs are not only tasty but also add a fun twist to traditional potato dishes, ensuring that no one can resist.

Easy to Make

One of the best things about these cheese puffs is how simple they are to make. The recipe requires just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have on hand. This means you can jump right into preparing these delightful treats without a lengthy shopping list or complicated cooking techniques. Even novice cooks will find success with this recipe.

With just a few short steps—from mixing the ingredients to frying the puffs—you can have a batch of these delicious bites ready in no time. Preparing them can even become a fun family activity, allowing everyone to join in on the fun. Get kids involved in shaping the balls or mixing the ingredients, making it a memorable cooking experience.

A Taste Everyone Loves

One of the standout features of Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs is their universal appeal. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and melty cheese creates a comforting flavor that is adored by both kids and adults alike. You can customize the recipe by experimenting with different types of cheeses or even adding spices to cater to varying palates. This adaptability makes it easy to modify according to your family's preferences.

Furthermore, these cheese puffs are a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Instead of letting them go to waste, transform them into an exciting new dish that everyone will love. This not only minimizes food waste but also brings creativity into the kitchen, showcasing how versatile simple ingredients can be.

Ingredients

For the Cheese Puffs

  • 2 cups mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying

Mix well and shape into small balls before frying.

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper.

Shape into Balls

Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.

Fry the Puffs

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the balls until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Drain and Serve

Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve warm and enjoy!

These can be served with a dipping sauce for added flavor!

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with extra cheese puffs, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispy texture. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer, which works wonders in keeping the puffs crispy while warming them through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the uncooked cheese puffs. Place the shaped balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, where they will keep well for up to a month. When you're ready to cook, there's no need to thaw—just fry them for a few extra minutes until they're golden and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your presentation, consider serving these cheese puffs on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs or microgreens. This simple touch not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also adds a burst of flavor. Pair the puffs with an assortment of dipping sauces—like spicy ketchup, garlic aioli, or a cheesy dip—to cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding different ingredients to the mashed potato mixture, such as bacon bits, chives, or even jalapeños for a spicy twist. This creativity will help you develop a range of flavor profiles, ensuring that you can please any crowd while keeping your recipes fresh and exciting.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the balls a day ahead, then fry them just before serving.

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Enjoy these crispy mashed potato cheese bites that are sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering! With a golden, crunchy exterior and a gooey, cheesy center, these addictive treats are the perfect appetizer or side dish to complement your holiday feast. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, they're bound to become a new family favorite!

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time50 minutes

Created by: Sabrina Holt

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Cheese Puffs

  1. 2 cups mashed potatoes
  2. 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
  3. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  4. 1 egg
  5. Salt and pepper to taste
  6. Oil for frying

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper.

Step 02

Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.

Step 03

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the balls until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Step 04

Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 7g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g