The Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe is a delightful twist on classic mashed potatoes, turning them into irresistible, golden-brown puffs that are crisp on the outside and creamy within. Whether you’re looking for a playful side dish, a fun way to use up leftovers, or a savory snack that’s guaranteed to win hearts, these puffins deliver every time. They’re bursting with cheesy flavor, infused with the gentle bite of chives and the warmth of garlic, making them perfect for family dinners, brunch spreads, or even as a make-ahead lunchbox treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how a handful of humble ingredients can come together to create something so crave-worthy! Each element in this Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe adds its own special touch, from creaminess and tang to color and crunch.
- Mashed potatoes (2 cups): The foundation—use leftovers or make them fresh for the ultimate creamy base.
- Large eggs (2): Help bind everything together and give the puffins their tender structure.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup): Melts into rich pockets of flavor and adds a lovely orange tint.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Brings a salty, nutty depth that complements the potatoes beautifully.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds tang and moisture, ensuring each bite is luscious.
- Chopped fresh chives (2 tablespoons): Provide fresh green color and that signature mild oniony bite.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses the puffins with warm, aromatic flavor without overpowering.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances and enhances all the savory notes.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): For a subtle kick and earthy finish.
- Nonstick spray or butter (for greasing the pan): Ensures your puffins release easily and get a lovely golden edge.
How to Make Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F, ensuring it’s nice and hot for that signature puff. Generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray or a swipe of butter—this little step guarantees your puffins pop right out, perfectly browned and intact.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, eggs, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, sour cream, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and flecked with those gorgeous green chives. The mixture will be thick but easily spoonable.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Smooth the tops lightly with the back of your spoon for even baking and a tidy finish—these puffins love to rise!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide your muffin tin onto the middle rack and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for puffed, golden-brown tops and centers that are set. Your kitchen will smell like cheesy, garlicky heaven!
Step 5: Cool and Release
Let the Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe rest in the pan for about five minutes—this helps them firm up and makes removal a breeze. Use a butter knife or small offset spatula to gently lift each puffin out.
How to Serve Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh chives or a dusting of Parmesan on top just before serving adds a burst of color and a little extra zing. If you’re feeling bold, a dollop of sour cream or a few crispy bacon bits make for a festive finish.
Side Dishes
These puffins are the perfect sidekick to roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a big salad for a lighter meal. Their creamy, cheesy flavor pairs beautifully with almost any main dish, especially those with a touch of garlic or herbs.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Or, tuck a puffin into lunchboxes alongside crunchy veggies. If you’re serving brunch, nestle one next to scrambled eggs for a playful, unexpected twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, pop any leftover puffins into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. They keep their texture and flavor beautifully, making them a fantastic make-ahead option.
Freezing
The Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe freezes surprisingly well! Simply arrange the cooled puffins on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to two months—perfect for last-minute snacks or sides.
Reheating
For best results, reheat puffins in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F until warmed through and slightly crisped—about 5 minutes. The microwave works too (though they’ll be a bit softer), making them ideal for quick breakfasts or snacks.
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of homemade?
Absolutely! Instant mashed potatoes work well in this recipe, especially if you’re short on time. Just prepare them according to package directions and allow to cool before mixing with the other ingredients.
What can I use instead of chives?
If you don’t have chives, try finely sliced green onions, parsley, or even a little fresh dill. Each brings its own fresh flavor and pop of color to the Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Definitely! Crumbled cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or chopped spinach are all delicious additions. Just keep the total volume of add-ins to about 1/2 cup so the puffins hold together.
Why did my puffins stick to the pan?
This usually means the muffin tin wasn’t greased enough. Make sure to use a generous amount of nonstick spray or butter, and allow the puffins to cool for a few minutes in the pan before removing.
Are these puffins gluten-free?
Yes! The Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe contains no flour or breadcrumbs, making them naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your cheese and seasoning labels if you’re very sensitive.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a side dish that’s comforting, creative, and sure to impress, give the Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe a try. It’s a playful spin on a classic that always gets rave reviews—so don’t be surprised if you find yourself making them again and again!
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Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 puffins 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins are a delightful, savory side dish or snack, perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes. Packed with garlic, chives, and Cheddar cheese, they are baked until golden and fluffy, delivering a deliciously flavorful bite that pairs well with any meal.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cold or room temp)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Greasing
- Nonstick spray or butter (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin thoroughly with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh chives, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix all the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the potato mixture evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the tops gently.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the puffins have risen, are golden brown on top, and are set in the center.
- Cool and Remove: Allow the puffins to cool for 5 minutes in the pan. Then carefully loosen and remove them using a butter knife or a small offset spatula.
- Serve: Serve warm as a tasty side dish or convenient snack, and enjoy the savory garlic and chive flavor.
Notes
- Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly for this recipe, making it an excellent option for reducing waste.
- For added flavor, consider mixing in crumbled bacon, sautéed onions, or cooked spinach.
- These puffins reheat well and can be warmed up in a toaster oven or air fryer for a quick snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 puffin
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
