Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a fun and delicious way to enjoy creamy mashed potatoes with a cheesy, crispy twist. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, these little puffs are packed with flavor and easy to make. They’re crispy on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside, making them an irresistible treat for any meal. Whether served for a holiday gathering or a weeknight dinner, these cheesy bites will disappear quickly!
Necessary Kitchen Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Potato masher or electric mixer
- Muffin tin or baking sheet
- Spoon or cookie scoop
- Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
Ingredients
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared and cooled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup green onions, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (for topping, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a muffin tin with paper liners, or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, egg, green onions (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Form the Puffs: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to scoop out the mashed potato mixture and form small mounds. Place them into the muffin tin or arrange them on the baking sheet.
Add the Topping: If desired, sprinkle the tops of the puffs with melted butter and breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on top.
Serve: Let the puffs cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them as a side dish or appetizer!
Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the mashed potatoes and the puff mixture ahead of time. Just refrigerate it and bake when ready to serve.
- Flavor Variations: Add cooked bacon bits, shredded mozzarella, or sautéed spinach to the potato mixture for added flavor.
- Crispier Puffs: For extra crispiness, bake the puffs for a few extra minutes or broil them for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.
What to Serve with Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Serve these cheesy mashed potato puffs alongside roasted meats, salads, or as a stand-alone appetizer. They pair especially well with grilled chicken, steak, or pork.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
While fresh mashed potatoes give the best texture, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you’re in a pinch. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the package and allow them to cool before mixing.
2. Can I freeze Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?
Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes when ready to serve.
3. Can I make these without cheese?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of cheese, you can omit both the cheddar and Parmesan cheese and add extra seasonings or herbs like chives or rosemary for a different flavor.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect way to turn a simple side into something special. Crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor, they’re sure to be a hit at your next meal!
Cheesy Mashed Potato
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Potato masher or electric mixer
- Muffin tin or baking sheet
- Spoon or cookie scoop
- Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
Ingredients
- 3 cups mashed potatoes prepared and cooled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup green onions finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp butter melted
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs for topping, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a muffin tin with paper liners, or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, egg, green onions (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
- Form the Puffs: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to scoop out the mashed potato mixture and form small mounds. Place them into the muffin tin or arrange them on the baking sheet.
- Add the Topping: If desired, sprinkle the tops of the puffs with melted butter and breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on top.
- Serve: Let the puffs cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them as a side dish or appetizer!
Notes
Flavor Variations: Add cooked bacon bits, shredded mozzarella, or sautéed spinach to the potato mixture for added flavor.
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