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Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs – Crispy, Golden Bites Bursting with Flavor
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are an irresistible snack or side dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and savory seasonings, all baked into crispy golden bites. These puffs are perfect for parties, game day, or a comforting addition to any meal. They’re easy to prepare, require simple ingredients, and bake quickly in the oven, making them a great way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into something exciting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses cold mashed potatoes — perfect for repurposing leftovers
- Cheddar cheese adds rich, gooey flavor inside every puff
- Crispy, Parmesan-coated exterior contrasts delightfully with soft interior
- Simple ingredients and quick baking time
- Versatile as appetizers, snacks, or a side for any dinner
Ingredients
- 3 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives (or green onions)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for coating)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, garlic powder, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The flour helps bind the mixture together for easier shaping.
Step 3: Shape the Puffs
Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Step 4: Coat with Parmesan
Place the grated Parmesan cheese in a shallow dish. Roll each potato ball in the Parmesan to coat the surface evenly. This coating will crisp up during baking, giving each puff a golden, flavorful crust.
Step 5: Bake
Arrange the coated potato puffs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the puffs from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm as a tasty appetizer or alongside your favorite main dishes.
Tips for Perfect Potato Puffs
- Use cold mashed potatoes for the best consistency and ease of shaping. Warm potatoes will be too soft and sticky.
- Freshly shredded cheddar melts better than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
- Don’t skip the Parmesan coating; it’s key to creating that signature crispy crust.
- If your mixture feels too soft to shape, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the mixture.
Variations
- Bacon Cheddar Puffs: Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon for smoky richness.
- Spicy Puffs: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- Herb Infused: Fold in finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or basil for an aromatic twist.
- Vegan Option: Substitute cheddar with vegan cheese and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
Serving Suggestions
These potato puffs pair beautifully with creamy dips such as ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or sour cream with chives. They also make a delightful side to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or alongside soups and salads.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy. These puffs can also be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a simple yet delicious way to elevate leftover mashed potatoes into a crowd-pleasing treat. Crispy on the outside and cheesy, fluffy on the inside, they offer the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence. Perfect for any occasion, these puffs are sure to become a favorite snack or side dish in your kitchen.
Pairing Ideas
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide range of dishes. Here are some ideas to complement your puffs:
- Serve alongside grilled or roasted meats such as chicken, beef, or pork for a hearty meal.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
- Add a side of tangy coleslaw or pickled vegetables for contrast in flavors and textures.
- Include as part of a brunch spread with scrambled eggs, sausages, and fresh fruit.
Make Ahead and Meal Prep
You can prepare the potato puff mixture ahead of time and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. For busy days, form the puffs and freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Healthier Modifications
For a lighter version, consider these tweaks:
- Use mashed cauliflower or a mix of mashed potatoes and cauliflower to reduce carbs.
- Replace some or all of the cheddar with reduced-fat cheese.
- Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat or oat flour for added fiber.
- Incorporate finely chopped vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
FAQs
Can I bake these without Parmesan coating?
While Parmesan adds a delicious crisp crust, you can skip it if desired. The puffs will still be tasty but less crunchy on the outside.
What can I use instead of chives?
Green onions, parsley, or even dill make excellent alternatives to chives and offer their own unique flavors.
Are these suitable for freezing after baking?
It’s best to freeze them before baking. Baking from frozen keeps the texture crisp. Reheating baked puffs from frozen can result in sogginess.
Final Words
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful way to transform simple leftovers into a crowd-pleasing treat. With a golden, crispy exterior and cheesy, fluffy interior, they’re sure to be a hit at your table. Whether as appetizers, sides, or snacks, these puffs are easy to make, versatile, and utterly delicious.