Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs: A Delicious and Easy Recipe to Try at Home
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that is crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, and packed with delicious flavors, these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are perfect for you. Whether you’re using freshly prepared or leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe transforms them into a delightful snack, appetizer, or side dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s an excellent way to repurpose leftovers while creating something truly indulgent.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups freshly prepared or leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Why You Should Make These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Mashed potatoes are a staple in many households, but sometimes, you’re left with more than you can eat. Instead of reheating them as they are, turning them into crispy potato puffs gives them new life. They are perfect for meal prep, easy to store, and can be customized with different cheeses, herbs, and seasonings. Plus, they make an excellent side dish for grilled meats, soups, and salads.
If you love comfort food but still want something a little different, these mashed potato puffs will hit the spot. The combination of cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and green onions gives them a balanced flavor that pairs well with any dipping sauce or a dollop of sour cream.
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with parchment paper. Using a muffin tin ensures that each potato puff bakes evenly and gets that crispy golden brown edge.
2. Prepare the Potato Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. The eggs and cheese act as a binding agent, helping the potato mixture hold its shape during baking.
3. Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. You can use a spoon or an ice cream scoop to ensure even portions. If you want extra crispy edges, lightly spray the tops with cooking spray before baking.
4. Bake Until Golden Brown
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potato puffs turn golden brown and crispy around the edges. The tops should be slightly puffed, and the cheese should be bubbly.
5. Cool and Serve
Once done, let the potato puffs cool for a few minutes before removing them from the muffin tin. Serve them warm, garnished with additional green onions or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. They pair perfectly with sour cream, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli.
Tips for the Best Mashed Potato Puffs
- Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes: This recipe works best with cold mashed potatoes. If using freshly made mashed potatoes, allow them to cool slightly before mixing.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar and Parmesan are great choices, you can also try Gruyère, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- Add Extra Crunch: Sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs on top before baking for an added crispy texture.
- Make Them Mini: Use a mini muffin tin to create bite-sized potato puffs, perfect for appetizers or party snacks.
- Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to keep them crispy.
What to Serve with Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
These puffs are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. They make a great accompaniment to steak, roasted chicken, or grilled vegetables. If you’re serving them as an appetizer, pair them with dips like honey mustard, garlic aioli, or classic marinara sauce.
Related Recipes You May Enjoy
If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy these delicious dishes:
- Teriyaki Salmon Bowls with Crispy Brussels Sprouts – A healthy and flavorful meal with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
- Crispy Fish Batter Recipe – Learn how to make a crunchy and delicious batter for fish.
- Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup – A comforting, creamy soup perfect for cozy evenings.
- Oyster Stew: A Classic Comfort Dish – A rich and creamy stew that’s perfect for seafood lovers.
Conclusion
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are an easy, delicious, and creative way to enjoy leftover mashed potatoes. They are crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor, making them a perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can make a batch that everyone will love. Whether you serve them at a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or as a party appetizer, these potato puffs will be a hit. Try this recipe today and enjoy a new way to indulge in mashed potatoes!