Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are crispy on the outside, fluffy and cheesy on the inside—a perfect way to use up leftover mashed potatoes! Whether you’re looking for a tasty side dish, snack, or appetizer, these puffs will be a hit at any meal.
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
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin. You can also use muffin liners for easy removal if preferred.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, eggs, milk, green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The cheese will start to melt into the mashed potatoes, making it a rich, cheesy batter.
Step 3: Fill Muffin Tin
- Spoon the potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Be sure to pack the mixture gently to help it hold its shape as it bakes.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake the potato puffs for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the puffs are set. You can insert a toothpick to check if they are cooked through. The tops should be slightly crispy while the inside remains soft and fluffy.
Step 5: Serve Warm
- Let the puffs cool slightly before removing them from the muffin tin. Gently run a knife around the edges of each puff if needed.
- Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, fluffy goodness!
Perfect For:
- Snack: These little puffs are great for snacking on throughout the day.
- Side Dish: Pair them with your favorite main course, like roast chicken or a salad.
- Appetizer: They make an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties or gatherings.
Tips for Success:
- Use leftover mashed potatoes: These puffs are an excellent way to use up any extra mashed potatoes you might have. Fresh mashed potatoes work too, just make sure they’re not too watery.
- Add extra flavors: You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs like chives or thyme. Or even a bit of cooked bacon for extra richness.
- Crispy top: For extra crispiness, broil the puffs for the last 2-3 minutes of baking time. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Freeze and Reheat: You can freeze these puffs before or after baking. To freeze before, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually and then store in a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Q&A Section:
Q: Can I use mashed potatoes that are already seasoned?
A: Yes, if your mashed potatoes are already seasoned, just be mindful of how much additional salt you add. Taste the mixture before baking to ensure it’s seasoned to your liking.
Q: Can I make these puffs ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the puffs in advance, store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, and then bake them when you’re ready to serve. Alternatively, you can bake them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven for 5-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to get them crispy again.
Q: Can I make these puffs without eggs?
A: Yes, you can make these puffs without eggs by substituting them with a flaxseed meal or chia egg. For one egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to form a gel-like consistency.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: You can absolutely swap the cheddar and Parmesan for other types of cheese. Try mozzarella for a gooey center or gouda for a smoky flavor.
Q: Can I freeze these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?
A: Yes, you can freeze the puffs either before or after baking. After baking, allow them to cool completely and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes about 10-12 puffs, depending on the size of your muffin tin cups.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour substitute. Almond flour or chickpea flour can work well in place of regular flour.
Conclusion:
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a simple and delicious way to turn leftover mashed potatoes into something special. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they’re a great addition to any meal. Enjoy them as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, and don’t forget to get creative with additional toppings or seasonings!