Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside! They’re the perfect way to use up leftover mashed potatoes for a delicious snack, appetizer, or side dish.

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 – Adds a smoky, savory kick.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the depth of flavor.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper – For a hint of spice.
1/2 teaspoon paprika – Brings 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 lightly brush it 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 well incorporated. Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning based on the mashed potatoes’ flavor.

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. For extra cheesiness, 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 as they 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 for different flavors.
Make Them Spicy – Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or hot sauce.
Crispier Puffs? – 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 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!