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A stack of golden-brown Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, with one puff pulled apart to reveal the steamy, fluffy cheese interior.

Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Your Family Will Crave

Bite-sized mashed potato puffs loaded with cheddar cheese, crispy breadcrumbs, and savory seasoning — golden, crunchy, and irresistible.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Cuisine American
Servings 20 puffs
Calories 95 kcal

Ingredients
  

Produce

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Refrigerated

  • 2 large eggs

Baking & Spices

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt

Bread & Baked Goods

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs

Dairy

  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded

Other

  • 2 cups mashed potatoes cold or room temperature

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Prepare the potato mixture

  • In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.

Add eggs

  • Crack in the eggs and mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and cohesive.

Shape the puffs

  • Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat with remaining mixture.

Coat the puffs

  • Roll each ball in flour, then dip lightly into beaten egg if needed, and finally coat generously in breadcrumbs.

Bake until crispy

  • Arrange the coated puffs on the baking sheet. Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Cool slightly and serve

  • Let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm for best texture.

Notes

Tips & Variations

  • Extra crispy: Spray lightly with oil before baking or broil for the last 2 minutes
  • Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway
  • Add herbs: Parsley, chives, or oregano add great flavor
  • Spicy version: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños
  • Cheese swap: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store cooked puffs up to 3 days in an airtight container
  • Freezer: Freeze uncooked puffs up to 2 months
  • Reheat: Oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for best crispiness
Keyword baked potato puffs, cheesy potato appetizer, crispy mashed potato cheese puffs, family friendly potato snacks, mashed potato bites, potato cheese balls