Looking for a creative and delicious way to use leftover mashed potatoes? These Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect solution! They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with flavor. Made with simple pantry staples, these puffs are quick to prepare and make a fantastic snack, side dish, or appetizer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Perfect Use for Leftover Mashed Potatoes – No more wasting extra mashed potatoes!
✔ Easy & Budget-Friendly – Requires only a handful of inexpensive ingredients.
✔ Crispy Outside, Fluffy Inside – Baked or fried to golden perfection!
✔ Great for Any Occasion – Perfect as a side dish, snack, or party appetizer.
Ingredients
To make these golden, fluffy potato puffs, you’ll need:
4 medium potatoes, peeled and boiled
2 tablespoons flour (for structure)
1 egg, lightly beaten (helps bind everything together)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (adds a delicious savory kick)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder (enhances flavor)
Optional Add-Ins:
1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for freshness)
1/2 teaspoon paprika (for a smoky touch)
1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (for extra crunch and flavor)
How to Make Mashed Potato Puffs
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
If using fresh potatoes, peel, boil, and mash them until smooth.
If using leftover mashed potatoes, bring them to room temperature before mixing.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Stir until all ingredients are well combined. If the mixture feels too soft, add an extra tablespoon of flour.
If using cheese, bacon, or herbs, fold them in now.
Step 3: Shape the Puffs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking.
Use a small cookie scoop or a spoon to form 1-inch balls.
For extra crispiness, roll each puff in a light dusting of flour before cooking.
Cooking Methods
Option 1: Baking (Healthier Version)
Place potato puffs on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Option 2: Pan-Frying (Extra Crispy Version)
Heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry the puffs for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
Option 3: Air Fryer (Quick & Crispy Version)
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Spray the potato puffs lightly with oil and place them in the basket.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Tips for the Best Mashed Potato Puffs
✅ Use Cold Mashed Potatoes – They hold their shape better than warm ones.
✅ Don’t Overmix – Stir just until combined to keep them fluffy.
✅ For Extra Crunch – Coat the puffs in breadcrumbs or panko before baking or frying.
✅ Spice It Up – Add paprika, cayenne, or chili flakes for extra heat.
✅ Cheese Lovers – Use shredded cheddar or parmesan for extra gooey deliciousness.
Serving Suggestions
🥄 Dipping Sauces:
Sour cream & chives
Garlic aioli
Ketchup or BBQ sauce
Ranch dressing
🥗 Pair With:
Grilled chicken or steak
A fresh green salad
Soup for a comforting meal
Storage & Reheating
📦 Refrigerate Leftovers – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheat for Crispiness – Use an oven (375°F for 10 minutes) or air fryer (350°F for 5 minutes) to bring back the crunch.
❄️ Freeze for Later – Place uncooked potato puffs on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.
Why You Need to Try This Recipe
These Mashed Potato Puffs are an easy, tasty, and irresistibly crispy treat that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, they make a fun twist on classic mashed potatoes that both kids and adults will love.
Give them a try, and enjoy every crispy, fluffy bite! Let me know how they turn out!