Crispy Cheesy Potato Puffs – Easy Leftover Mashed Potato Bites

Last updated on November 12th, 2025 at 06:11 pm

Warm, golden, and packed with melty cheese

Looking for a comforting, cheesy way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes? These crispy cheesy potato puffs are a delicious twist on a classic side. Baked in mini muffin pans, they come out golden and crisp on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside. Perfect as a party bite, a snack, or even breakfast, these little puffs disappear fast at any gathering. With just a few pantry staples like eggs, cheese, and chives, you can whip these up in no time. They’re also an ideal make-ahead recipe for your next family celebration or fall get-together. Bonus: they’re freezer-friendly and endlessly customizable with bacon, herbs, or spice!

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🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✅ Fun and easy way to use leftover mashed potatoes
• ✅ Mini bites with crispy edges and melty cheese
• ✅ Freezer-friendly and easy to reheat
• ✅ Perfect for seasonal gatherings or fall comfort meals
• ✅ Customizable with your favorite mix-ins like bacon, herbs, or curry

This is one of those reliable, crowd-pleasing recipes you’ll want to save and make again. Whether for a cozy evening or a festive fall potluck, these cheesy puffs always steal the spotlight.

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⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 12–24 mini puffs

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📝 Ingredients List

• Cooking spray or butter (for greasing)
• 2 cups cooked mashed potatoes
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup grated cheese (Parmesan or Gruyère), divided
• 1/4 cup fresh chives, minced
• 1/4 cup diced smoked beef or turkey bacon (pork substitution)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Sour cream, for serving (optional)

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✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free:

• Mini muffin tin or regular muffin pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Oven mitts
• Knife + cutting board

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a mini muffin pan.
2. In a bowl, combine mashed potatoes, eggs, ¾ cup cheese, chives, and diced smoked beef. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper (to taste).
4. Spoon mixture into muffin cups. Top with remaining cheese.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until tops are golden and edges are crispy.
6. Let cool for 5 minutes. Use a spoon or knife to gently release.
7. Serve warm, optionally topped with a dollop of sour cream. 😋🧀

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💡 Pro Tips

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Bake at 400°F for 10–15 minutes to re-crisp.
• Make Ahead: Freeze unbaked puffs in muffin tins. Bake straight from frozen, adding 5 minutes.
• Variations: Try goat cheese + spinach, curry & red onion, or sun-dried tomato & basil.
• Serving Ideas: Serve as an appetizer, brunch side, or party snack.

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🧁 Closing Summary: It’s Your Turn to Cook!

These crispy cheesy mashed potato puffs are a must-try for anyone who loves easy, satisfying comfort food. Whether you’re clearing out the fridge or prepping a fall feast, this recipe transforms leftovers into something irresistibly golden and delicious. Bite-sized, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable, it’s no surprise these puffs get rave reviews. Keep a batch ready for the next time you need a reliable appetizer, fun snack, or cozy side dish that everyone will adore. 🍽️✨

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📊 Nutrition Table

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 puff	90	3g	6g	5g	0.5g	0.5g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.