Take your mashed potatoes to the next level with these delicious Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs! These puffs are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with cheesy goodness. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, they’re an excellent way to use leftover mashed potatoes or make them fresh just for this recipe. These potato puffs are easy to make, incredibly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe and enjoy these savory, cheesy puffs!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added crunch)
- Cooking spray or melted butter, for greasing the muffin tin
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, green onions or chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Breadcrumbs (Optional): If you want extra crispiness, add 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs to the mixture and stir to combine. This will give the potato puffs a slightly crunchy texture.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin
- Scoop the Mixture: Use a spoon or a cookie scoop to fill each muffin cup with the mashed potato mixture. Fill them about 3/4 full, and use the back of the spoon to smooth the tops.
- Top with Extra Cheese (Optional): For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle a little additional shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top of each potato puff.
Step 4: Bake the Potato Puffs
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potato puffs are golden brown on the edges and set in the middle.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the puffs to cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes to set before removing them.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from Muffin Tin: Carefully run a knife around the edges of each puff to loosen them and gently lift them out of the muffin tin.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with extra chopped chives or green onions, if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy these crispy, cheesy potato puffs as a side dish or appetizer!
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: Serve warm as a side dish with your favorite main courses like grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables. They also make a great appetizer or snack on their own.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Helpful Notes:
- Cheese Options: Feel free to use different cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
- Texture Variations: For smoother puffs, use creamy mashed potatoes. For more texture, leave some chunks of potatoes in the mixture.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the mashed potato mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just fill the muffin tin and bake as directed.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Gordon Ramsay: Recommends adding a pinch of nutmeg to the mashed potato mixture for a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.
- Ina Garten: Suggests using Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery, creamy texture in the mashed potatoes.
- Martha Stewart: Advises topping the puffs with a mix of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan for a crispy, golden crust.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes, but for the best flavor and texture, homemade mashed potatoes are recommended. - Can I make these potato puffs gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. - Can I add other ingredients to the mixture?
Yes, feel free to add extras like crumbled bacon, sautéed mushrooms, chopped spinach, or even diced ham for added flavor. - Can I freeze these potato puffs?
Yes, you can freeze the baked puffs. Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. - How do I prevent the puffs from sticking to the muffin tin?
Make sure to grease the muffin tin well with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent sticking. You can also use silicone muffin liners. - Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives to make this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet. - What can I serve with these potato puffs?
They pair well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or as a fun appetizer with a dipping sauce like sour cream, ranch, or aioli. - Can I make these in a mini muffin tin?
Yes, use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized puffs. Reduce the baking time to about 12-15 minutes, or until golden and set. - How do I keep the puffs crispy?
Serve immediately after baking for the crispiest texture. If reheating, use the oven rather than the microwave to maintain the crispiness. - Can I add fresh herbs to the mixture?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme can add a burst of fresh flavor to the potato puffs.
Conclusion:
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful way to elevate leftover mashed potatoes into a delicious new dish. With their crispy edges, cheesy interior, and customizable ingredients, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Easy to make and versatile enough to pair with various dishes, these potato puffs are the perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy their savory goodness as a side dish, appetizer, or snack!
