These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a fun and delicious twist on traditional mashed potatoes! With a crispy golden exterior and a cheesy, creamy interior, they make the perfect side dish or appetizer. Easy to make and packed with savory flavors, these puffs are sure to be a hit at your next meal or gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs take all the comforting goodness of mashed potatoes and turn them into crispy, cheesy bites. The inside is filled with melty cheddar cheese and Parmesan, while the outside gets a golden, crunchy coating, making each bite irresistible. These puffs are the perfect side for any dinner, or even as a fun snack or appetizer. Plus, they’re simple to make and use ingredients you probably already have on hand!
Ingredients
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Stir in the beaten eggs until the mixture is cohesive.
- Using your hands, form the potato mixture into small puffs, about 2 inches in diameter, and coat them in breadcrumbs.
- Place the puffs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot as a side dish or appetizer.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 12 puffs
Variations
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the mixture for a more aromatic flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a little hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to give these puffs a spicy twist.
- Different Cheeses: Swap out cheddar and Parmesan for other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the puffs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure they are already seasoned and well-mixed before using them.
2. Can I make these puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the puffs in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze these mashed potato puffs?
Yes, you can freeze them. After forming the puffs, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. Can I make these puffs gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free. You can also try crushed rice crackers or almond flour as an alternative to breadcrumbs.
5. How do I make the puffs crispier?
For extra crispiness, lightly spray the puffs with cooking spray or brush them with olive oil before baking.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheeses, such as mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy cheese like pepper jack, for a different twist.
7. Can I bake these puffs in an air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry the puffs at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
8. How do I know when the puffs are done baking?
The puffs are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also test by lightly pressing them with a fork—if they’re firm and not mushy, they’re ready!
9. Can I make these puffs without eggs?
Yes, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) or another egg substitute to bind the mixture together.
10. Can I make a bigger batch of these puffs?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to make more puffs. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, checking the puffs as they bake.
Conclusion
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate comfort food that’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavor. These fun, bite-sized treats are a great way to use leftover mashed potatoes and turn them into something exciting and new. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, these puffs will quickly become a favorite in your household. Perfectly golden on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside, they’re sure to please everyone at the table!
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Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate comfort food with a crispy golden exterior and a cheesy, creamy interior. Made with mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan, these bite-sized treats are perfect as a savory side dish, appetizer, or snack. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite at your next meal or gathering!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 puffs
Ingredients
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stir in the beaten eggs until the mixture is cohesive.
- Using your hands, form the potato mixture into small puffs, about 2 inches in diameter, and coat them in breadcrumbs.
- Place the puffs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot as a side dish or appetizer.
Notes
- Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh or dried rosemary or thyme for a more aromatic flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy twist.
- Cheese Variations: Use mozzarella, gouda, or a spicy cheese like pepper jack for a unique flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
- Diet: Vegetarian
