These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are golden-brown bites of yum! Made from creamy mashed potatoes mixed with cheese and spices, they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
What’s not to love about a delicious snack that feels like a hug in food form? I often make extra so I can enjoy them as leftovers. They also go great with a little dip for added fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: For the best texture, use creamy mashed potatoes. You can make them from scratch or use store-bought. If you’re in a pinch, instant mashed potatoes may also work, but the puffs will be less rich.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor, but you can substitute with mild cheddar or even Gruyère for a twist.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice depth. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative. Both give that delicious cheesy goodness!
Cream or Milk: I prefer cream for creaminess, but you can use whole milk or even a dairy-free milk for a lighter version. Nut milks like almond or soy work too.
Chives: Fresh chives add a lovely flavor. If they’re out of season, green onions or scallions can make a nice substitute.
Breadcrumbs: These are optional, but I find they create a delightful crunch. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or panko are perfect substitutes!
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Mashed Potato Puffs?
Getting the right texture is key to fluffy and crispy puffs. Start with well-prepared mashed potatoes that are creamy, not grainy. Here’s how to ensure success:
- Mix mashed potatoes with eggs and dairy until smooth. The eggs help bind and give a delightful fluffiness.
- Don’t overmix. Combine until just smooth; this keeps the puffs light.
- Fill the muffin cups about 3/4 full, leaving space for them to puff up during baking.
- Create a swirl on top before baking for a nice presentation and texture contrast.
- Keep an eye on them while baking. You want golden tops to tell you they’re done!
Let the puffs cool slightly before removing them from the tin; this prevents them from falling apart. Enjoy your tasty creations!
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Potato Mixture:
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared, preferably creamy)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup cream or milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Extra Crunch (Optional):
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the muffin tin)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, followed by 20-25 minutes of baking time. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your cheesy mashed potato puffs in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it will be nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your puffs!
2. Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your creamy mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, cream or milk, eggs, chopped chives, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until you have a smooth and well-combined mixture. It should smell delicious already!
3. Get the Muffin Tin Ready:
Next, take your muffin tin and grease it with cooking spray or butter to ensure the puffs don’t stick. If you’re using breadcrumbs for extra crunch, sprinkle a little bit of them in the bottom of each muffin cup.
4. Fill the Muffin Cups:
Spoon the mashed potato mixture into each muffin cup, filling them about 3/4 full. You can even swirl the tops a little to make them look extra charming!
5. Bake the Puffs:
Pop the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the tops to turn golden brown and crispy. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Cool and Release:
Once baked, carefully take the muffin tin out of the oven and allow the puffs to cool for a few minutes. To release them, run a knife gently around the edges of each puff.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some extra chopped chives on top for a fresh touch. Enjoy your cheesy mashed potato puffs warm, and feel free to serve them with a side of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. Yum!
Enjoy these delicious cheesy mashed potato puffs as a delightful side dish or appetizer!
Can I Use Instant Mashed Potatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just prepare the instant mashed potatoes according to package directions and allow them to cool before mixing with the other ingredients. Keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the cheddar and Parmesan cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives. Use almond or oat milk instead of cream or milk. Just be sure to check that the plant-based cheese melts well for the best results!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through to maintain their crispiness.
Can I Freeze Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?
Absolutely! To freeze, let them cool completely and then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C), adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
