Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing treat that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than this Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe. These golden, baked puffs capture the creamy comfort of mashed potatoes with a delightful cheesy twist and a subtle kick from green onions, delivering a soft, fluffy center surrounded by a crispy exterior. Perfect as a side dish or a snack, they are irresistibly delicious and surprisingly easy to whip up. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing guests, these puffs will quickly become a beloved classic on your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect bite—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. The simplicity of the components makes the magic happen while keeping the preparation stress-free and enjoyable.
- Cold mashed potatoes: The base that brings creaminess and holds everything together perfectly.
- Large eggs: Bind the mixture and add richness for tender puffs.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharp, melty goodness that blends beautifully with the potatoes.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty flavor for depth and complexity.
- Chopped green onions: Provide a fresh, vibrant bite that brightens every mouthful.
- Garlic powder: Infuses a gentle savory warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances and balances the taste.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures your puffs slide right out of the muffin tin with ease.
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s important to have the oven hot enough to create a golden, crispy exterior on the puffs. Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray so that each puff will release effortlessly when baked.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mixing everything until well incorporated ensures every puff will be bursting with harmonious flavor and the right texture.
Step 3: Fill and Bake
Spoon the mixture evenly into each muffin cup, filling them about three-quarters full. This allows the puffs room to rise and become delightfully fluffy. Bake them for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they’re beautifully puffed and golden brown on top—trust me, this is the moment your kitchen will smell irresistible.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the puffs cool in the pan for about five minutes. This resting time helps them set so they will come out cleanly and keep their shape when you remove them. Serve these warm to enjoy the full, gooey cheesy experience.
How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and extra freshness. A light drizzle of sour cream or a dollop of your favorite creamy dip also pairs perfectly with the cheesy, savory flavors of the puffs.
Side Dishes
These puffs are incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic side for a variety of mains. Think roasted chicken, a crisp salad, or even a hearty stew—they complement and elevate almost any meal thanks to their rich, comforting qualities.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gatherings, arrange these puffs on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. You can also serve them alongside a trio of dipping sauces—such as spicy ketchup, garlic aioli, and honey mustard—for a fun, interactive snack experience that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days and are perfect for a quick snack or a side the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, let the puffs cool completely. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can keep them fresh for up to 2 months and enjoy a cheesy treat anytime without starting from scratch.
Reheating
For the best texture when reheating, pop the puffs back into a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will bring back their signature crispiness on the outside and warm, melty center—much better than a microwave in this case.
FAQs
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, using leftover mashed potatoes is a perfect way to make these puffs, saving you time while preventing food waste. Just ensure the potatoes are cold for the best consistency.
Can I add other ingredients to the Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to mix in extras like crumbled bacon, chopped jalapeños, herbs, or even a bit of cooked sausage—customize these puffs to your liking and make them your own special creation.
Are these puffs gluten-free?
They naturally are, as the recipe does not include any flour or breadcrumbs. However, always double-check your mashed potatoes and other ingredients for any hidden gluten if you have dietary restrictions.
Can I make these puffs vegan?
This recipe uses cheese and eggs, which are not vegan. To make a vegan version, you could try substituting a plant-based cheese and an egg replacer, but keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover puffs?
The oven or an air fryer is your best bet to reheat these puffs while preserving their crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful crispy crust intact.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe is a true game-changer for any meal or occasion. Its simple ingredients come together to create a warm, comforting bite that’s both effortlessly tasty and endlessly customizable. You’re going to love how easy and satisfying these puffs are to make, so grab your muffin tin and get baking—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
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Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 puffs 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish, perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes. Packed with cheddar and Parmesan cheese, green onions, and a hint of garlic, they bake to golden perfection in a muffin tin, resulting in crispy on the outside and soft on the inside puffs that are sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Ingredients
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the mixture evenly into each muffin cup, filling them about three-quarters full to allow room for puffing up as they bake.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and have puffed up nicely.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the puffs cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Carefully remove them from the muffin tin and serve warm.
Notes
- These puffs are a great way to use leftover mashed potatoes, reducing food waste.
- For extra flavor, consider adding crumbled bacon, chopped jalapeños, or fresh herbs to the mixture before baking.
- They can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven or air fryer for convenience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
