Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

There's nothing quite like the warm, comforting taste of mashed potatoes, but sometimes you want to take them to the next level. Enter Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs – a crispy, golden bite-sized treat packed with gooey cheese and fluffy potato goodness. They're perfect as a side dish, snack, or even an appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more.

I first discovered these little delights when looking for creative ways to use up leftover mashed potatoes. One bite, and I knew this was a recipe worth making again and again. Whether you're serving them at a family dinner or a party, they disappear in minutes!

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with this easy and delicious recipe. These little puffs bring the best of crispy and creamy textures together in one bite.

First, they're incredibly simple to make. Using just a handful of ingredients, you can turn plain mashed potatoes into a fun and exciting dish in under 30 minutes.

They're also a great way to use up leftovers. If you’ve got extra mashed potatoes from last night’s dinner, this recipe is the perfect way to give them a second life.

These potato puffs are wonderfully versatile. You can switch up the cheese, add your favorite herbs, or even throw in some crispy bacon bits for an extra flavor boost.

Perfect for any occasion, these puffs work as a tasty snack, a party appetizer, or a kid-friendly side dish. Everyone, from little ones to adults, will love the crispy outside and cheesy, fluffy inside.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these puffs lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making them crispy, cheesy, and utterly delicious.

Mashed potatoes are the foundation of this dish. If you’re using fresh ones, make sure they’re well-seasoned and smooth. Leftover mashed potatoes work great too, as long as they’re not too runny.

Cheese is what makes these puffs extra irresistible. Sharp cheddar is a fantastic choice because of its bold flavor, but you can experiment with mozzarella, parmesan, or a mix for an even cheesier result.

Eggs help bind everything together and give the puffs structure. They ensure that the mashed potatoes hold their shape while baking and develop a light, airy texture inside.

A little flour or breadcrumbs helps absorb excess moisture and keeps the puffs from falling apart. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative.

For an extra touch of flavor, season with garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of smoked paprika. These simple additions enhance the taste and make the puffs even more delicious.

How To Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Making these puffs is easier than you think, and the results are more than worth it. Let’s go through the steps to achieve golden, crispy perfection.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a mini muffin tin. This helps ensure the puffs don’t stick and makes for easy cleanup.

In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, beaten eggs, and flour or breadcrumbs. Stir until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when scooped.

Spoon the mixture into the greased mini muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Don’t overfill, as the puffs will expand slightly while baking.

Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges are crispy. If you like an extra crispy finish, you can broil them for the last 1-2 minutes of baking.

Allow the puffs to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the tin. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, crispy goodness in every bite!

Storage Options

These cheesy mashed potato puffs store beautifully, making them a great make-ahead option.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to bring back their crispiness.

For longer storage, freeze the puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in the oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is super adaptable, so feel free to get creative with different ingredients and flavors.

Switch up the cheese for a new flavor twist. Gouda, pepper jack, or even blue cheese can bring a unique and delicious spin to these puffs.

Add mix-ins like cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or finely chopped chives to elevate the taste and texture.

For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based egg substitute. The results will still be deliciously crispy and satisfying.

Make them extra crispy by rolling the puffs in panko breadcrumbs before baking. This adds an irresistible crunch to every bite.

If you love spice, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeños to the potato mixture. This gives the puffs a little kick without overpowering the cheesy goodness.

There are endless ways to customize these cheesy mashed potato puffs, so have fun experimenting and find your perfect combination!

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