Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs – glassika recipes

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs: Crispy, Cheesy, and Irresistible

If you love crispy, cheesy, and golden-brown bites of deliciousness, you’re in for a treat! These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, fluffy, and mouthwatering snack. With a crunchy exterior and a soft, cheesy center, these puffs are perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or party snack.

The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a creative way to use up leftover mashed potatoes or just craving something comforting and cheesy, these golden, bite-sized delights will become a new favorite in your home.

Introduction

There’s something magical about mashed potatoes—creamy, buttery, and full of flavor. But when you turn them into Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs, you take comfort food to a whole new level. Imagine the crispy crunch of golden-baked potato bites, giving way to an ooey-gooey, cheesy center. It’s the kind of snack that keeps you coming back for more.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can enjoy these mashed potato puffs as a fun appetizer, a side dish for dinner, or even as a quick, savory breakfast. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike, and you can customize them with different cheeses, herbs, or even a spicy kick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy & Cheesy – The perfect golden-brown exterior with a melty cheese center
Great for Leftovers – A creative way to use up leftover mashed potatoes
Easy to Make – Just mix, scoop, and bake! No frying required.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve as a snack, appetizer, or side dish
Customizable – Add bacon, jalapeños, or different cheeses for a unique twist

Ingredients

To make these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs, you’ll need the following:

Essential Ingredients

2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
2 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled for a smoky, savory kick
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for extra depth of flavor
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a hint of spice
1/2 teaspoon paprika for a subtle smoky flavor

How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or brush it lightly with melted butter to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Potato Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, eggs, milk, and chopped green onions. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning based on how seasoned your mashed potatoes already are.

3. Fill the Muffin Tin

Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, fill each muffin cup with the potato mixture, pressing it down slightly to ensure compact, even puffs. If you like extra cheese, you can sprinkle a little extra cheddar on top before baking.

4. Bake Until Golden & Crispy

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. The edges should be slightly crisp, while the inside remains soft and cheesy.

5. Cool & Serve

Remove the potato puffs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as sour cream, ranch, or marinara sauce.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Use Cold Mashed Potatoes – Leftover mashed potatoes work best because they are firmer and hold their shape better.
Don’t Overmix – Stir until just combined to keep the puffs light and fluffy.
Adjust the Cheese – Experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack cheese for different flavors.
Make Them Spicy – Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for extra heat.
Crispier Puffs? – If you want an extra crunchy exterior, brush the tops with melted butter before baking.

Cooking Tips

Want to take your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs to the next level? Try these pro tips:

Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes for an ultra-crispy texture.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Bake fresh when ready to serve.
Double the Recipe: These potato puffs disappear fast, so consider making a double batch!

Serving Suggestions

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are delicious on their own, but they pair well with a variety of dips and dishes:

Dipping Sauces: Sour cream, garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce
Side Dish Pairings: Serve alongside steak, grilled chicken, or roasted veggies
Party Platter Idea: Pair with mozzarella sticks, crispy onion rings, and mini sliders

Nutritional Information

Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 12 puffs):

Calories: 120
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 180mg
Calcium: 8%

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes.
Freeze: Flash freeze the puffs on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Reheat from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes! Just make sure they are thick and not too watery.

Can I fry these instead of baking?
Absolutely! Heat oil in a pan and fry each puff for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.

Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Try adding finely chopped broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients.

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Conclusion

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are an easy, crispy, and delicious way to enjoy leftover mashed potatoes. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they are guaranteed to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and fluffy goodness! 🥔🧀🔥