Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a savory, bite-sized snack or side dish made from mashed potatoes, cheese, and seasonings. These crispy, golden puffs are perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes or as a fun addition to any meal. They’re easy to make and full of flavor!
Here’s how you can make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or melted butter, for greasing
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, ensure they’re smooth and free of any large lumps. If making fresh mashed potatoes, cook the potatoes, mash them with butter and cream, and allow them to cool slightly.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Form the Puffs:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin with olive oil or melted butter. You can also use a regular muffin tin if you prefer larger puffs.
- Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out small portions of the potato mixture and shape them into balls or spoon them into the muffin tin. You should get around 12-16 small puffs, depending on the size you prefer.
- If you want extra crispiness, lightly roll each puff in some extra breadcrumbs before placing them in the muffin tin.
- Bake the Puffs:
- Bake the mashed potato puffs for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes to get an even crispier top.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve warm as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. Enjoy with a dipping sauce like sour cream, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce.
Tips:
- Cheese Variations: You can use different types of cheese, like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda, depending on your preference.
- Breadcrumb Substitution: If you need a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add cooked bacon bits, chopped herbs, or sautéed onions to the potato mixture for extra flavor.
- Make-ahead: You can prepare the puffs ahead of time, shape them, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delicious way to enjoy mashed potatoes in a fun and crispy form. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or as a quick snack!
