Introduction:
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a fun, bite-sized twist on traditional mashed potatoes, perfect for appetizers or as a side dish. These golden, crispy potato puffs are loaded with cheese, making them rich and flavorful. With a soft, creamy interior and a crunchy exterior, they’re irresistible! This dish is ideal for using up leftover mashed potatoes or creating a new favorite for your family gatherings.
Ingredients:
3 cups mashed potatoes (preferably leftover, but freshly made works too)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup sour cream
2 large eggs
1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing or brushing)
Optional: 1/2 tsp paprika or cayenne pepper for added flavor
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin or baking sheet with olive oil.
Prepare the mashed potatoes: If using leftover mashed potatoes, make sure they’re smooth and not too thick. If you’re using freshly made potatoes, ensure they’re creamy and not watery.
Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, eggs, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Shape the puffs: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to form small mounds of the mashed potato mixture. Gently roll them into balls or spoon them directly into the muffin tin.
Coat with breadcrumbs: Roll each ball or mound in breadcrumbs to coat the outside evenly. This will give them a crispy texture when baked.
Bake: Place the puffs on a greased baking sheet or in the muffin tin. Lightly brush the tops with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve: Let the puffs cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra green onions or parsley if desired.
Description:
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful combination of creamy mashed potatoes and gooey melted cheese, encased in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by a soft, cheesy interior. These puffs are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday meal, a family dinner, or a party snack. Their cheesy goodness is sure to make them a crowd favorite.
Tips:
Use cold mashed potatoes: If using leftovers, cold mashed potatoes will hold their shape better and provide a firmer texture when baking.
Make them ahead: You can prepare the puffs and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Simply bake them just before serving.
Add herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can be added to the mashed potato mixture for an extra flavor boost.
Cheese variety: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or pepper jack for different tastes.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked puffs. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake straight from the freezer at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
Variations:
Bacon Cheddar Mashed Potato Puffs: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the mashed potato mixture for a smoky, savory twist.
Spicy Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mashed potatoes for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Mashed Potato Puffs: For a vegetarian version, make sure the cheese you’re using is rennet-free, and you can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
Herbed Mashed Potato Puffs: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill to the mixture for a fragrant and flavorful puff.
Corrections:
If your mashed potatoes are too runny, consider adding extra breadcrumbs to thicken the mixture so it holds its shape better when baking.
If the puffs are not getting crispy enough, you can broil them for a minute or two at the end of the baking process to achieve extra crunch.
Enjoy!
Savor these golden, cheesy delights that are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Whether as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs will be a hit with everyone!