Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Balls

If you ever find yourself staring at a bowl of cold leftover mashed potatoes, wondering how to breathe new life into them, look no further than this delightful recipe for Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese puffs. These golden nuggets of crispy goodness are the perfect marriage of creamy mashed potatoes and a trio of cheeses, creating a snack that is both comforting and irresistibly delicious.

I can’t help but gush about these cheese puffs, as they have become a holiday favorite in my household. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a bold flavor that cuts through with each bite, making them an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve them as a cozy snack or a side dish, these puffs never fail to disappear within minutes of coming out of the oven.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can elevate your leftover mashed potatoes into a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, get your hands a little messy, and indulge in the joy of transforming humble leftovers into a culinary delight that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Quick Benefits

• Efficient Use of Leftovers: Repurpose cold or room temperature leftover mashed potatoes into a delicious snack or side dish.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily swap in different types of cheeses, herbs, meats, or even non-dairy alternatives to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Make Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Prepare and freeze unbaked or baked puffs for later use, making them a convenient option for quick snacks or unexpected guests.
• Crispy and Creamy Texture: Enjoy a satisfying contrast of crispy exterior and creamy interior, whether baked, air-fried, or pan-fried with breading.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Balls Recipe

• Versatile and Creative: This recipe transforms leftover mashed potatoes into golden cheese puffs that are crispy on the outside and creamy inside, making a delicious snack or side dish.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses delivers a flavorful punch that stands out even when baked, making each bite a cheesy delight.
• Easy to Store and Reheat: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and reheated in the oven or air fryer. They can also be frozen, unbaked or baked, for up to a month, making them a convenient make-ahead option.
• Customizable: You can swap in your favorite melty cheeses, add different mix-ins like bacon or jalapeños, or experiment with herbs and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether served as an appetizer with a creamy dip, a movie night snack, a potluck contribution, or a brunch side dish, these cheese puffs are versatile and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
• Family-Friendly and Fun: This recipe is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings. Rolling the puffs can be a fun and interactive activity for kids, creating lasting memories.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can shape and freeze the puffs in advance, allowing you to have a delicious snack ready to cook for impromptu guests or last-minute cravings.
• Suitable for Different Dietary Needs: With the option to use non-dairy cheeses, gluten-free flour, and breadcrumbs, this recipe can be adapted to accommodate various dietary preferences or restrictions.

Ingredients for Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Balls

Main Mixture

• 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 cup shredded sharp or medium cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
• 2 cups cold or room temperature leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Breading (Optional for crispy coating)

• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup Panko or regular breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten

Optional Add-ins

• Chopped jalapeño or chili flakes
• Cooked crumbled bacon
• Shredded cooked chicken
• Minced sautéed onions or caramelized shallots

Pro Tips for Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Balls

To make the most flavorful cheese puffs, opt for sharp cheddar as it stands out beautifully in the final dish. Its robust flavor enhances the overall taste, giving these puffs a delicious punch.

For a convenient snack or side, prepare the cheese puffs in advance and freeze them. This way, you can have a tasty treat ready to bake whenever you need it. Whether it’s a last-minute gathering or a sudden craving, having frozen cheese puffs on hand is a game-changer.

To cater to dietary preferences, feel free to experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors. Swap in your favorite melty cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda, or go for non-dairy options for a lactose-free version. This flexibility allows you to customize the cheese puffs to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

How to Make Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, mix together mashed potatoes, cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, parsley, sour cream or Greek yogurt, green onions, and any additional ingredients until a smooth, thick mixture that holds its shape is formed.

Step 2: Shape the Puffs

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the mixture into 1 to 1.5 inch balls. Flatten slightly for crispier texture. Place the formed puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for 20 minutes if breading.

Step 3: Coat the Puffs (Optional)

Set up three bowls: one filled with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with a breadcrumb mixture (Panko, grated Parmesan, paprika, oregano). Roll each puff in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs until fully covered.

Step 4: Cook the Puffs: Air Fryer Method

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Lightly coat air fryer basket and puffs with cooking spray. Cook puffs in batches for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and golden brown.

Step 5: Cook the Puffs: Oven Method

Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange puffs on a parchment-lined baking tray, coat with oil spray, and bake for 20-25 minutes. Flip halfway through cooking until golden brown and crisp.

Step 6: Cook the Puffs: Pan-Fried Method

In a skillet, heat 1/4 inch of oil over medium heat. Fry puffs in batches, flipping as necessary, until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the delicious leftover mashed potato cheese puffs, it’s essential to store any extras properly. To keep leftovers fresh, store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispy exterior and creamy interior. If you have a surplus or want to save some for later, you can freeze both unbaked and baked puffs successfully for up to one month. When baking from frozen, remember to add about five extra minutes to the cooking time.

For those who enjoy experimenting with different cheeses, feel free to swap in your favorite melty cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or Gouda. If you prefer a dairy-free version, non-dairy cheeses can also be used. Additionally, you can customize the recipe further by using dried herbs instead of fresh ones or opting for gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free panko. These versatile cheese puffs make a fantastic appetizer paired with a creamy dip, a delightful addition to a brunch spread, or a perfect snack for impromptu gatherings. Whether you serve them at a holiday feast or a casual movie night, these cheese puffs are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, you can still make these cheese puffs using instant mashed potatoes. Just ensure they are cooled and thick enough to hold their shape when forming the puffs.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses if you don’t have sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan on hand. Substitute with similar melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique flavor profile.

For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour and regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives such as almond flour or gluten-free panko. This adjustment will make the cheese puffs suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try serving these leftover mashed potato cheese puffs as a delicious topping for a loaded baked potato bar. Set out a variety of toppings like sour cream, crispy bacon bits, diced green onions, and jalapeños for a fun and interactive meal option that will surely be a hit with guests. Another idea is to serve them as a unique and savory addition to a brunch spread. Pair these cheesy puffs with scrambled eggs and a fresh salad for a satisfying brunch that will impress your family and friends. The creamy and crispy texture of the puffs will complement the eggs perfectly, making for a delightful meal that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

FAQs for Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Balls

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, instant mashed potatoes will work. Ensure they are cooled and thick enough to hold their shape when forming puffs.

Can I substitute the cheeses listed in the recipe?

Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan deliver flavor and texture, but feel free to swap in similar melting cheeses.

What should I do if the mashed potato mixture feels too wet or soft?

Use cold mashed potatoes, bind with egg, and add flour or breadcrumbs if the mixture feels too wet or soft.

How can I ensure crispy outsides for the cheese puffs?

Baking, air-frying, or pan-frying with breading all create crispy outsides—choose your favorite for the best results.

Conclusion

Incorporating the delightful flavors of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, these Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese puffs are a delightful way to repurpose last night’s meal into something truly special. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply looking for a cozy snack, these golden, crispy bites are sure to be a hit.

Experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and add-ins to make these cheese puffs your own. Embrace the versatility of this recipe by serving them at various occasions – from movie nights to potlucks and brunches. With tips for storage and reheating, you can enjoy these puffs whenever a craving strikes. So, gather those leftover mashed potatoes and get ready to savor every bite of these irresistible Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese puffs!