Introduction:
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a fun, bite-sized twist on traditional mashed potatoes. These puffs are crispy on the outside and creamy and cheesy on the inside, making them the perfect side dish or appetizer. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover mashed potatoes or want to impress guests with a unique take on a classic comfort food, these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably made ahead)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk or cream
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives (optional)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing)
Cooking spray or extra butter (for greasing the muffin tin)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or brush with butter to prevent sticking.
Prepare the mashed potatoes: In a large bowl, combine your leftover mashed potatoes with the eggs, milk (or cream), shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and green onions (if using). Mix everything together until smooth and well-combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Shape the Puffs: Stir in the breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture. Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the greased muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon.
Add Extra Cheese: If you’d like, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top of each puff for extra cheesiness and a golden finish when baked.
Bake: Brush the tops of each puff with melted butter for a golden and crispy exterior. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. You can also broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crunch.
Serve: Allow the Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs to cool for a couple of minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin. Serve them warm as a side dish, appetizer, or snack.
Description:
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes. These golden, crispy bites are filled with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes, making them both indulgent and satisfying. The outside has a nice crunch, while the inside remains soft and comforting. Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a creative way to use up leftovers, these puffs will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
Tips:
Leftover Mashed Potatoes: This is a great recipe to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes. Just make sure the potatoes are well-seasoned before using them for the puffs.
Breadcrumbs: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for coating.
Crispy Texture: If you prefer extra crispiness, spray the tops of the puffs with a little more cooking spray or brush with melted butter halfway through baking.
Cheese Variety: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can mix things up with mozzarella, Gouda, or even a sharp blue cheese for more flavor.
Variations:
Bacon Cheddar Potato Puffs: Add crispy, crumbled bacon to the mashed potato mixture for a smoky flavor.
Herbed Puffs: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the mashed potatoes for an herby twist.
Spicy Puffs: Stir in a bit of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Veggie Puffs: Mix in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or peas for added color and flavor.
Corrections:
If your puffs don’t hold together well, you can add more breadcrumbs or a bit of flour to help bind them.
If the puffs are browning too quickly in the oven, cover them loosely with foil and continue baking until they are fully cooked through and golden.
Enjoy:
Serve these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs as a fun side dish or appetizer. Whether you’re using them as part of a holiday meal, a game day snack, or just as a creative way to enjoy mashed potatoes, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table!