Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful, bite-sized snack that’s both comforting and flavorful. Crispy on the outside with a creamy, cheesy center, they make a perfect appetizer or side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 3 cups chilled mashed potatoes
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped chives, to taste
• Flour, as needed
• Garlic powder, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Parmesan cheese, for coating

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the puffs.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
3. Step 3: Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
4. Step 4: Lightly roll each ball in flour to help the coating stick.
5. Step 5: Coat each floured ball evenly with Parmesan cheese, pressing gently so it adheres.
6. Step 6: Arrange the puffs on a baking sheet, spacing them apart.
7. Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden and crispy on the outside.
8. Step 8: Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

• Use leftover mashed potatoes for a quick and easy recipe with minimal prep time.
• Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Add cooked bacon bits or finely chopped jalapeños into the mixture for extra flavor and texture.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage

Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these puffs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potato balls and coat them with Parmesan cheese, then refrigerate them on a baking sheet for a few hours before baking. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked puffs on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What type of mashed potatoes works best?

Mashed potatoes with a smooth and creamy texture work best to form the puffs. Avoid overly runny mashed potatoes, as they may not hold their shape well. Using chilled mashed potatoes helps the mixture firm up for easy shaping.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 144 reviews

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish. Made with creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh chives, they are shaped into bite-sized balls, coated with Parmesan cheese, and baked until golden and crispy on the outside while soft and cheesy inside.

• Author: Sienna
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: About 20 puffs 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups chilled mashed potatoes
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped chives, to taste
• Garlic powder, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Flour, as needed
• Parmesan cheese, for coating

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking the potato puffs evenly.
2. Mix Ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes with the egg, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to create a uniform mixture.
3. Form Balls. Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into bite-sized balls using your hands. Make sure they are compact so they hold together well.
4. Coat with Flour. Lightly roll each potato ball in flour. This helps the Parmesan cheese stick better and gives a nice texture.
5. Parmesan Coating. Roll each floured ball in grated Parmesan cheese thoroughly, coating all sides for extra flavor and a crispy crust.
6. Bake. Arrange the coated balls on a baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between each ball. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
7. Serve Warm. Once baked, remove the puffs from the oven and serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.

Notes

• You can prepare the mashed potatoes ahead of time and chill them for easier shaping.
• If you want extra flavor, add finely minced garlic or herbs like parsley to the mixture.
• Make sure the potato balls are compact to prevent them from falling apart during baking.
• Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best coating and crispiness.
• Serve these puffs as an appetizer, side dish, or snack with sour cream or a dipping sauce of your choice.

Keywords: cheesy mashed potato puffs, baked potato balls, cheddar cheese puffs, cheesy appetizer, potato snack