Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins

Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins is a easy American recipe that serves 12. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by Just a Taste with Kelly Senyei on YouTube.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 33 min | Total: 53 min

Cost: $5.34 total, $0.45 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Leftover Mashed Potatoes (room temperature, any style (butter‑rich works best))
  • 1 large Egg (beaten lightly)
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (sharp cheddar preferred for flavor; reserve 1/4 cup for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Chives (finely chopped; optional substitute with green onions)
  • as needed Cooking Spray (to grease muffin tin)
  • 0.25 cup Extra Shredded Cheddar Cheese (for topping) (adds a melty finish)

Instructions

  1. Gather Ingredients

    Measure out 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes, beat 1 large egg, shred 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and finely chop 2 tablespoons of fresh chives.

    Time: PT2M

  2. Combine the Mixture

    In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg, then add the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar, and chopped chives. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Preheat Oven & Prepare Tin

    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 12‑cup muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 375°F

  4. Fill Muffin Cups

    Using an ice‑cream scoop or large spoon, portion the potato mixture into the muffin cups, filling each about three‑quarters full.

    Time: PT5M

  5. First Bake

    Place the tin in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.

    Time: PT30M

    Temperature: 375°F

  6. Add Topping Cheese

    Remove the tin, sprinkle the reserved 1/4 cup shredded cheddar over each muffin, then return to the oven for an additional 3 minutes until the cheese melts.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: 375°F

  7. Cool & Serve

    Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a serving plate and garnish with a pinch of fresh chives.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
150
Protein
5g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
8g
Fiber
1g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free

Allergens: Eggs, Dairy

Last updated: April 18, 2026

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Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins

Recipe by Just a Taste with Kelly Senyei

Turn leftover mashed potatoes into bite‑size cheesy muffins that are perfect for a quick snack, side dish, or make‑ahead breakfast. With just four core ingredients—mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar, and fresh chives—these golden‑brown muffins are easy to assemble, bake, and freeze for future meals.

EasyAmericanServes 12

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
20m
Prep
35m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 5m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$5.34
Total cost
$0.45
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Whisking the egg into the mashed potatoes to create a proper binder.
  • Filling the muffin cups no more than three‑quarters full to avoid overflow.
  • Baking until golden brown before adding the topping cheese.

Safety Warnings

  • Use oven mitts when handling the hot muffin tin.
  • Be careful not to over‑fill the tin; hot batter can spill and cause burns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins in American comfort food cuisine?

A

While not a traditional dish, turning leftovers into handheld muffins reflects the American home‑cooking ethos of minimizing waste and creating convenient, comforting snacks. These muffins have become popular on food blogs as a clever way to repurpose holiday or dinner leftovers.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of mashed potato muffins in the United States?

A

There are no historic regional versions, but cooks often adapt the basic recipe by adding local cheeses—such as Monterey Jack in the West or sharp cheddar in the Northeast—or incorporating regional herbs like dill in the Midwest.

cultural
Q

How is Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins traditionally served in American households?

A

They are typically served warm as a snack, side dish, or breakfast bite, often garnished with fresh herbs and paired with a simple salad or fruit. They also appear on brunch tables as a hearty finger food.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

These muffins are especially popular after Thanksgiving or holiday meals when large amounts of mashed potatoes remain. They are also a convenient make‑ahead snack for busy weeknights or family game nights.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins?

A

They pair nicely with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup such as tomato bisque. For a heartier plate, serve alongside grilled chicken or a simple pork chop.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins?

A

Common errors include not adding enough egg, which prevents the muffins from binding, over‑filling the cups causing overflow, and under‑baking, which leaves a soggy interior. Follow the binding step and watch the golden edges for doneness.

technical
Q

Why does this Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins recipe use an egg instead of a flour‑based binder?

A

The egg provides protein that binds the dense potato mixture without adding extra carbs or changing the flavor profile, keeping the muffins light and preserving the creamy potato texture.

technical
Q

Can I make Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins ahead of time and how should I store them?

A

Yes. After baking, let them cool completely, then freeze in airtight bags. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave briefly for a quick snack.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins?

A

The muffins should have a golden‑brown crust around the edges, a slightly crisp top from the melted cheese, and a soft, fluffy interior that holds together when lifted.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Just a Taste with Kelly Senyei specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Just a Taste with Kelly Senyei focuses on practical, family‑friendly recipes that transform everyday ingredients and leftovers into tasty, approachable meals, often highlighting quick techniques and budget‑conscious cooking.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Just a Taste with Kelly Senyei's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?

A

Kelly emphasizes simplicity, minimal ingredient lists, and creative reuse of leftovers, whereas many other channels may focus on elaborate plating or exotic ingredients. Her style is down‑to‑earth, encouraging home cooks to experiment with what they already have.

channel

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