Ultimate Loaded Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs: Easy Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

Name: Ultimate Loaded Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably leftovers, cooled); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp for extra flavor); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Oil, for frying

Posted on July 29, 2025

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The smell of crispy, cheesy goodness wafting through the kitchen can make anyone’s mouth water! That’s exactly what you’ll experience when you make these Ultimate Loaded Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. Honestly, I can’t think of a better way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. These little bites of comfort are perfect for parties, game days, or even just a cozy night in with your favorite movie. I first stumbled upon this recipe while searching for creative ways to enjoy leftovers, and it quickly became a family favorite.

When I made these cheese puffs for the first time, my kids couldn’t get enough. It was a hit—everyone wanted to know what was in them! The beauty of these puffs is not just how delicious they are but also how versatile. You can load them up with your favorite toppings, and they come together quicker than you might think. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to impress guests with minimal effort. If you’re looking for comfort food that’s easy to make and hard to resist, you’ve come to the right place.

So grab your apron and let’s make some Ultimate Loaded Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s face it, there’s something magical about cheese puffs that makes them irresistible. Here’s why this recipe stands out among the rest:

Quick & Easy: These cheese puffs come together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients in your kitchen already, making this a no-fuss recipe.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a game day snack, a holiday appetizer, or a fun family dinner, these cheese puffs fit right in.
Crowd-Pleaser: I’ve served these at gatherings, and they’re always the first to disappear—kids and adults alike love them!
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese is next-level comfort food.

What makes these Ultimate Loaded Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs different? It’s the perfect blend of crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. You can also customize them to fit your taste—add bacon bits, chives, or even jalapeños for a spicy twist. They’re not just a side dish; they can easily steal the show!

Every bite is like a hug from the inside. Seriously, this recipe isn’t just good; it’s the kind of comfort food that makes you close your eyes after the first bite. Plus, you can whip them up in no time, making them perfect for impressing unexpected guests or treating your family to something special without the stress.

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver a flavor explosion without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably leftovers, cooled)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp for extra flavor)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup sour cream (for creaminess)
2 large eggs (to bind everything together)
1/2 cup green onions, chopped (for a fresh bite)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (for flavor)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs (for that crispy coating)
Oil, for frying (canola or vegetable oil works well)

These ingredients are typically pantry staples, making them easy to whip up whenever the craving hits. I recommend using leftover mashed potatoes for the best texture and flavor. If you don’t have any on hand, you can make a fresh batch and let them cool before mixing.

And if you’re looking for substitutions, feel free to swap out the cheeses—Monterey Jack or Gouda work great too! For a healthier twist, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, which adds protein without sacrificing creaminess.

Equipment Needed

To make these delicious cheese puffs, you’ll need just a few kitchen tools:

Mixing bowl (for combining ingredients)
Spoon or spatula (to mix everything together)
Cookie scoop or tablespoon (for portioning out the mixture)
Frying pan or deep fryer (for frying the puffs)
Paper towels (for draining excess oil)

No specialized equipment is necessary, which is great! If you don’t have a deep fryer, a frying pan will do just fine. Just make sure the oil is deep enough to submerge the puffs for even cooking. And if you’re looking for budget-friendly options, any sturdy mixing bowl and a regular frying pan will get the job done!

Preparation Method

Now we get to the fun part—making these Ultimate Loaded Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs! Follow these simple steps:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, and green onions. Mix until well combined.
Next, crack the eggs into the mixture and add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the mixture into small balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated. This will give them that crispy outer layer that’s so satisfying!
In a frying pan, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the mixture in; it should sizzle immediately.
Carefully place the cheese puffs into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Once cooked, remove the puffs from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Repeat the process until all the puffs are cooked. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

As you’re frying, be sure to adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning. You want them to cook evenly and get that gorgeous golden brown color. If you notice they’re browning too quickly, lower the heat a bit.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Cooking these cheese puffs is straightforward, but here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly:

Don’t skip the cooling: Make sure your mashed potatoes are cooled before mixing; this helps the puffs hold their shape.
Keep things consistent: Try to make the cheese puffs the same size for even cooking. Use a scoop to help with this!
Watch the oil temperature: If it’s too hot, the outside will burn while the inside stays cold. If it’s too low, they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Experiment with fillings: Don’t hesitate to add cooked bacon, jalapeños, or even a dollop of cream cheese in the center for an extra surprise!

I’ve had my share of cooking failures, but each one has taught me something. The first time I made these, I didn’t let my mashed potatoes cool long enough, and they fell apart in the oil! Now, I make sure to plan ahead and chill them for at least 30 minutes.

Variations & Adaptations

The best part about these Ultimate Loaded Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs is how customizable they are. Here are a few variations to try:

Bacon & Cheese Puffs: Add cooked, crumbled bacon and a bit of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Spicy Jalapeño Puffs: Mix in diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
Herbed Cheese Puffs: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a fresh twist.

If you prefer baking to frying, you can also bake these cheese puffs! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spray them lightly with cooking oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These cheese puffs are best served warm, right out of the fryer. They’re perfect on their own, but I love pairing them with a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or a spicy aioli. If you want to take it up a notch, serve them alongside a fresh salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal!

Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also freeze them for up to a month—just make sure they’re fully cooled before freezing!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

These Ultimate Loaded Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are not just delicious; they’re also a comfort food that can fit into various dietary preferences. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional benefits:

Each serving (about 3 puffs) contains approximately 210 calories.
Loaded with protein from the cheese and eggs, keeping you satisfied longer.
Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Contains essential vitamins and minerals from the potatoes and green onions.

Just keep in mind that they are best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake. But hey, comfort food isn’t about guilt—it’s about joy!

Conclusion

These Ultimate Loaded Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a must-try! They’re crispy, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer or a quick snack, this recipe is sure to delight. I love how customizable they are, and I encourage you to make them your own!

If you give this recipe a try, let me know how it turns out for you. I’d love to hear about any variations you tried or how your family enjoyed them. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family—they’ll thank you later!

Happy cooking, and remember: every bite is a little piece of comfort!

FAQs

1. Can I bake these cheese puffs instead of frying them?

Yes! You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

2. What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

You can use flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce as a binding agent.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.

4. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of leftovers?

Absolutely! Just make sure to let them cool after mashing before using them in the recipe.

5. What dipping sauces go well with these cheese puffs?

They pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or even a tangy barbecue sauce!

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