Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

 Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

## 🧀🥔 Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs: The Perfect Leftover Glow-Up

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with leftover mashed potatoes, **Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs** are the ultimate answer. These little golden bites are crispy around the edges, fluffy and cheesy in the center, and perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack. Best of all? They’re easy to make and totally customizable.

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## 🧾 Ingredients

* **2 cups cold mashed potatoes**

  *Leftovers work perfectly — just make sure they’re well seasoned.*

* **2 large eggs**

  *Adds structure and helps the puffs hold together.*

* **1 cup shredded cheese** (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)

  *Melts into gooey goodness inside each puff.*

* **¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt**

  *Adds creaminess and a slight tang.*

* **2 tablespoons grated Parmesan**

  *Boosts savory flavor and adds crispiness to the tops.*

* **2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives** (optional)

  *Adds a pop of flavor and color.*

* **Salt & pepper to taste**

* **Butter or nonstick spray, for greasing muffin tin**

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## 👩‍🍳 Instructions

### 1. **Preheat Oven**

* Preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)**.

* Grease a 12-cup mini muffin tin with butter or cooking spray.

### 2. **Mix the Batter**

* In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, eggs, shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions.

* Stir until everything is well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

### 3. **Scoop and Top**

* Spoon the mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.

* Sprinkle a little Parmesan on top of each puff for a crispy finish.

### 4. **Bake**

* Bake for **20–25 minutes**, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.

### 5. **Cool Slightly and Serve**

* Let cool for 5 minutes in the pan before carefully removing with a spoon or butter knife.

* Serve warm — they’re at their best straight out of the oven!

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## 🧄 Optional Add-Ins

* **Cooked bacon bits**

* **Minced garlic or onion powder**

* **Finely chopped spinach or broccoli**

* **Smoked paprika or cayenne for heat**

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## 🍽 Serving Suggestions

* Serve as a party appetizer with **ranch, sour cream, or hot sauce**

* Perfect side for grilled meats, soups, or holiday meals

* Great snack or lunchbox addition for kids

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## 💡 Pro Tips

* **Cold mashed potatoes work best** — they hold their shape better.

* **Mini muffin tins** give the perfect ratio of crispy edge to soft center.

* **Double the batch** and freeze extras! Reheat in the oven or air fryer.