If you’re looking for a comforting snack that’s bursting with cheesy goodness and melts in your mouth, the Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe is absolutely for you. These golden, bite-sized delights combine creamy mashed potatoes with sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan cheeses, all baked to crispy perfection. They’re perfect for parties, family dinners, or simply when you need a cozy treat that feels both indulgent and homemade. This recipe is easy, fun, and promises to become a beloved favorite whenever you need that perfect cheesy, savory fix.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All great dishes start with simple ingredients that work together in harmony. For this Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe, the blend of cheese, potatoes, herbs, and seasonings creates a wonderful balance of flavor and texture that will keep everyone coming back for more.
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes: Best if slightly firm to hold the puffs’ shape well during baking.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides that irresistible sharp, melty cheese flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory depth and a touch of nuttiness.
- 2 large eggs: Act as a binding agent to keep everything perfectly together.
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Brings creaminess and a subtle tang that brightens the mixture.
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions: Infuse a mild oniony freshness and color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warmth and a gentle hint of garlic flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savory notes subtly in every bite.
- Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil: For greasing the muffin tin to ensure easy removal.
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, generously grease your mini muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure your puffs come out perfectly shaped and golden brown.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cold mashed potatoes with the shredded cheddar, Parmesan, eggs, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Add in the chopped chives, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir gently but thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This step is key to getting that creamy and flavorful base for your puffs.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Cups
Use a spoon to fill each muffin cup to the very top with the potato-cheese mixture. Press down lightly to compact the ingredients slightly. This helps the puffs hold together as they bake and develop a crispy top and edges.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the tops turn a beautiful golden color and the edges look crisped and inviting. This baking step transforms the mixture from creamy to crisp, giving you the best of both textures.
Step 5: Cool and Remove
Let the puffs cool for a few minutes once out of the oven so they firm up just enough to lift easily out of the tin. Serve while warm, with extra chives or a dollop of sour cream if you like, for that added touch of freshness and creaminess.
How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate the look and flavor of your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe. Sprinkle with extra chopped chives or green onions for a pop of color and mild onion flavor. A light drizzle of sour cream or a small dollop on top adds creamy tang and contrasts perfectly with the crispy exterior.
Side Dishes
This dish works beautifully alongside a fresh green salad or a bowl of tangy tomato soup. The puffs’ rich cheesiness pairs well with crisp, acidic, or light sides that balance out the flavors and textures for a satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these puffs on a platter with various dipping sauces like ranch, spicy aioli, or a smoky chipotle dip. Alternatively, use them as playful finger foods at parties, or even stack them with layers of ham and greens for mini savory sandwiches. The possibilities with the Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe are truly endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These puffs stay surprisingly good and can be enjoyed cold or reheated for a quick snack or side dish.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the cooled puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and make a great make-ahead treat.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated puffs in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soft instead of delightfully crisp.
FAQs
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes are perfect for this recipe, especially if they are cold and a bit firm. Just make sure they aren’t too watery for best results.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand?
If you’re out of Parmesan, you can replace it with another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or just increase the cheddar slightly. The flavor may change a bit but still delicious.
Can I make these puffs gluten-free?
Yes! Since this recipe contains no flour or breadcrumbs, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that your seasonings and cheese are gluten-free to be safe.
Is there a way to make them spicier?
For a little kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the mixture. You can also serve with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Can I bake these in a regular muffin tin?
You can, but keep in mind the baking time may increase since the portions will be larger. Watch for a golden, crispy top and adjust time as needed.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something incredibly delightful about these little pockets of cheesy mashed potato heaven. The Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe combines familiar comfort flavors with a fun twist that will brighten up any meal or snack time. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these puffs are sure to bring joy to the table. Give them a try and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
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Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish featuring creamy mashed potatoes blended with cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, baked to golden perfection in a mini muffin tin. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft inside, they make a crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes (best if slightly firm)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
For the Pan
- Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil for greasing the muffin tin
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a mini muffin tin by greasing it with nonstick cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped chives, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir the mixture thoroughly until it becomes smooth and well combined.
- Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the potato mixture into each muffin cup, filling them to the top. Press the mixture lightly to ensure each puff holds its shape during baking.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops of the puffs are golden and the edges turn crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the puffs from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes in the tin. Then, carefully remove them and serve warm. Optionally garnish with extra chopped chives or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Notes
- Using slightly firm, cold mashed potatoes helps the puffs hold their shape better during baking.
- You can substitute the cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese variety to customize the flavor.
- For a tangier taste, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- These puffs are best served fresh but can be reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
- To make them spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
