1. Introduction
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful twist on classic mashed potatoes, transforming them into light, fluffy, and flavorful bites. These puffs are perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes or for adding a fun and delicious side dish to any meal. With a crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy interior, they are sure to become a favorite at your table.
2. Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:
- 2 cups of cold mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of sour cream
- 1/4 cup of chopped green onions
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- Cooking spray
- Optional garnish: extra shredded cheese, chopped chives, or a dollop of sour cream
3. Preparing the Mashed Potatoes
If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, make sure they’re cold before starting. If you’re making fresh mashed potatoes, let them cool to room temperature. Cold mashed potatoes hold their shape better and are easier to work with for this recipe. You can use any type of mashed potatoes, but those with a bit of texture (rather than overly smooth) work best.
4. Mixing the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick and hold together when scooped, thanks to the eggs and cheese binding it.
5. Prepping the Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a mini muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent the puffs from sticking. A mini muffin tin is ideal for this recipe, as it helps create the perfect bite-sized puffs. If you don’t have a mini muffin tin, a regular muffin tin will work, but the baking time may need to be adjusted.
6. Filling the Muffin Tin
Using a small scoop or spoon, fill each muffin cup with the potato mixture. Press down gently to pack the mixture into the cup, ensuring it fills the space evenly. Each cup should be filled to the top but not overflowing, as the puffs will rise slightly during baking.
7. Adding Extra Cheese
For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle a little additional shredded cheddar cheese on top of each puff before baking. This will create a deliciously crispy cheese topping that enhances the flavor and presentation of the puffs.
8. Baking the Potato Puffs
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on the edges. The tops should be slightly puffed and the cheese melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent overbrowning.
9. Cooling the Puffs
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the puffs cool in the tin for a few minutes. This cooling time allows the puffs to set slightly, making them easier to remove. Use a small offset spatula or a butter knife to gently lift the puffs out of the muffin tin.
10. Garnishing the Puffs
For a finishing touch, garnish the Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs with a sprinkle of chopped chives, a dollop of sour cream, or a little extra shredded cheese. These garnishes add color and flavor, making the puffs even more appealing and delicious.
11. Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are best served warm, straight from the oven. They make an excellent side dish for roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even as part of a brunch spread. They’re also a fantastic appetizer or snack, perfect for parties or family gatherings.
12. Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the puffs on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the puffs soggy.
13. Making Ahead
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs can be made ahead of time and frozen for later use. Simply prepare the puffs as directed, but instead of baking, place the filled muffin tin in the freezer until the puffs are firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, place the frozen puffs directly in the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
14. Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding different mix-ins or cheeses. Diced ham, cooked bacon, or sautéed mushrooms would make excellent additions. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère, pepper jack, or blue cheese, to change up the flavor profile.
15. Conclusion
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy mashed potatoes in a new form. Their crispy exterior and soft, cheesy interior make them irresistible, and they’re sure to be a hit at any meal. Whether you’re using up leftovers or making them from scratch, these puffs are easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Serve them as a side, appetizer, or snack, and watch them disappear in no time!
