Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and creative way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. These puffs are crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, making them a perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish.
📋 Ingredients:
🍟 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
🥚 1 large egg
🌿 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
🧂 1/2 tsp garlic powder
🧂 1/2 tsp onion powder
🧂 Salt and pepper, to taste
🍞 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
🛢️ Oil for frying (optional, if baking)
📝 Directions:
Prepare the Potato Mixture:
- Mix the Ingredients: 🍟 In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, egg, green onions (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the Puffs: 🧀 Scoop out about 1-2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball. Flatten slightly to form a puff. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
Coat the Puffs:
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: 🍞 Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Roll each puff in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Cook the Puffs:
Option 1: Frying
- Heat the Oil: 🛢️ In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry the Puffs: 🍟 Working in batches, fry the potato puffs for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Option 2: Baking
- Preheat Oven: 🔥 Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Bake the Puffs: 🍟 Place the coated potato puffs on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush the tops with oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Serve:
🍽️ Serve Hot: Serve the mashed potato cheese puffs hot, with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sour cream, ranch dressing, or ketchup.
🍽 Serve:
Enjoy your crispy and cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, a perfect way to turn leftovers into something special!
⏱ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
⏱ Cooking Time: 20 minutes
⏱ Total Time: 35 minutes
🍽 Servings: 12-16 puffs
🔥 Calories: 100 kcal per puff
💡 Notes:
- You can add other ingredients to the potato mixture, such as cooked bacon bits, chopped herbs, or different cheeses.
- These puffs can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven before serving.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs! 🧀✨