Swiss Potato Puffs are crispy little bites filled with fluffy potatoes and melted cheese. They’re golden on the outside and oh-so-soft inside, making them perfect for a snack or side dish!
Every time I make these, my family can’t get enough! They make a great treat for parties too. I always try to save a few for myself, but they disappear fast! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: Make sure your mashed potatoes are creamy and well-seasoned. If you don’t have any on hand, you can use instant mashed potatoes instead, just follow the package instructions.
Swiss Cheese: This is a key flavor boost. If you’re looking for a stronger taste, Gruyère cheese is a great substitute. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Unsalted Butter: I love using unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning. If you need a dairy-free version, olive oil or a vegan butter can be suitable replacements.
All-Purpose Flour: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, or use gluten-free flour if you have dietary restrictions. Each will yield slightly different textures, so keep an eye on consistency.
Chives: While they’re optional, fresh chives add a nice touch! You can also experiment with parsley or green onions if you want to change it up.
How Do I Get Perfectly Light and Airy Potato Puffs?
The texture of your potato puffs relies on mixing techniques. Ensure your mashed potatoes are fully cooled to prevent cooking the eggs prematurely. When combining the ingredients, fold gently to keep air in the mixture – this helps achieve that light puffiness.
- After mixing the wet ingredients, gradually incorporate the flour to prevent overworking the dough. Too much mixing can make them dense.
- Using a spoon or ice cream scoop makes portioning easier and ensures even sizes for baking.
- Remember to give them space on the baking sheet. They puff up during baking, so 2 inches apart is crucial.
How to Make Swiss Potato Puffs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared and cooled)
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, you can whip these Swiss Potato Puffs up in about 35-40 minutes total. Perfect for a tasty side dish or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will make your cleanup easier!
2. Mix the Potato Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled mashed potatoes, shredded Swiss cheese, and softened butter. Use a spatula or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. It should be creamy and smooth.
3. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
Next, crack in the two eggs, and add the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper into the potato mixture. Mix until everything is completely incorporated. Don’t worry if it’s a little thick; this is perfect for making puffs!
4. Shape the Potato Puffs:
Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, drop mounds of the potato mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave about 2 inches between each puff so they have space to grow as they bake.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and puffed up—that’s when they’re ready!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re baked to a perfect golden hue, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. This will help them hold together better when you serve them.
7. Optional Garnish:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped chives over the top of your Swiss Potato Puffs for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy them warm—these little bites are going to be a hit!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese gives these puffs a wonderful flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses like Gruyère, cheddar, or even mozzarella for a different taste. Just make sure the cheese melts well!
What If I Don’t Have Mashed Potatoes on Hand?
No problem! You can make quick mashed potatoes by boiling peeled and cubed potatoes until tender, then mashing them with a bit of butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Alternatively, store-bought mashed potatoes are a convenient option, too!
How Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the potato mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop and place them on a baking sheet, then bake as directed. They may need an extra minute or two in the oven if baked straight from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover Swiss Potato Puffs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crisp again. Enjoy!
