Fluffy Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Crispy golden cheese can elevate ordinary mashed potato puffs into something magical.

Soft potato interiors contrast beautifully with their crunchy exterior.

Such delightful bites work perfectly as appetizers or side dishes.

Cheesy comfort shines through each delectable morsel.

Packed with rich flavor, these puffs promise to surprise you.

Simple ingredients combine to create something extraordinary.

Every bite delivers a creamy, cheesy experience you won’t forget.

Mashed Potato Puffs – Reheating Without Drying Out

• Store leftover potato puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before placing in the container to prevent condensation.
• Warm puffs in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes to restore crispiness. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer for even heating.
• Crisp up puffs in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. This method helps maintain their crunchy exterior and warm interior.
• While possible, microwaving can make the puffs soggy. If using, heat in short 15-second intervals and check texture between each burst.

Best Sides for Potato Puffs

• Pair Perfectly with Crisp White Wine: Select a light, acidic Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the richness of the cheesy potato puffs, balancing the creamy texture with its bright, zesty notes.
• Complement with Herb-Roasted Chicken: Serve alongside a tender, herb-infused roasted chicken that echoes the savory chive and garlic flavors in the potato puffs, creating a harmonious main course pairing.
• Match with Fresh Green Salad: Create a refreshing contrast by adding a crisp mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, which helps cleanse the palate between bites of the rich, cheesy potato puffs.
• Enhance with Charcuterie Board: Arrange a selection of cured meats, olives, and pickled vegetables to provide a variety of textures and flavors that complement the potato puffs' creamy and crispy profile.

New Tastes for Mashed Potato Puffs

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour to make the recipe celiac-friendly and reduce gluten content.
• Vegan Potato Puffs: Substitute eggs with mashed chickpeas or flax eggs, use dairy-free cheese alternatives like nutritional yeast, and replace butter with olive oil for a plant-based option.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Swap regular potatoes with cauliflower mash, use a low-carb cheese blend, and add extra herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance flavor profile.
• Spicy Mexican Style: Incorporate diced jalapeños, replace chives with cilantro, add cumin and chili powder, and top with a sprinkle of Mexican cheese blend for a zesty kick.

FAQs

• Are these mashed potato puffs healthy?

While delicious, they’re a moderate indulgence. They contain protein from eggs and cheese, and potatoes offer some nutrients, but they’re also high in calories and fat due to cheese and butter.

• Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and fill the muffin tin several hours before baking. Just refrigerate and bake when ready. They also reheat well in the oven for a crispy texture.

• What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal. They have a starchy texture that creates creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes perfect for these puffs. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes.

• Do I need any special equipment?

You’ll need a mini muffin tin and basic kitchen tools like a mixing bowl, spoon, and measuring cups. A cookie scoop helps create uniform puffs, but isn’t mandatory.

Why Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Are So Addictive

• Quick and Easy Comfort Food: Transform leftover mashed potatoes into delightful bite-sized appetizers that everyone will love.
• Minimal Prep Time: Whip up these cheesy potato puffs in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for spontaneous snacking or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Party Pleaser: These golden, crispy puffs work wonderfully as appetizers, side dishes, or kid-friendly snacks that appeal to all ages.
• Budget-Friendly Creativity: Cleverly repurpose leftover mashed potatoes into a gourmet-style treat without spending extra money on ingredients.

What Goes into Mashed Potato Puffs

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy foundation of the recipe, best when homemade or smooth store-bought.
• Cheddar Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Sharp and tangy cheeses that provide rich flavor and melty texture.

• Eggs: Essential for holding the puffs together and adding structure.
• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and creates a tangy, creamy consistency.
• Melted Butter: Provides richness and helps with browning.

• Chives: Optional fresh herb for added flavor and color.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Provides depth of savory seasoning.
• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings for balanced taste.
• Breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy, golden exterior when sprinkled on top.
• Fresh Parsley: Optional garnish for fresh appearance and light herb flavor.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Baking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Warm up your oven to 375°F.

Grab a mini muffin tin and give it a light spray with cooking spray or line with cute paper liners.

Step 2: Mix Creamy Potato Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your creamy mashed potatoes.

• Sharp cheddar cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Eggs
• Melted butter
• Sour cream
• Chopped chives
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk everything together until the mixture looks smooth and completely combined.

Step 3: Fill Muffin Tin

Scoop the potato mixture into each muffin cavity using a spoon or cookie scoop.

Press down gently to create adorable little potato puffs that will hold their shape.

Step 4: Add Crispy Topping

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Sprinkle this crunchy mixture over the top of each potato puff for extra texture.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the muffin tin into the preheated oven.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the tops turn a beautiful golden brown and look irresistibly crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Grab some fresh parsley and sprinkle it on top for a pop of color.

Serve these cheesy potato puffs piping hot and watch them disappear in minutes!

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Baking Tips

• Prepare the mashed potato mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, keeping the breadcrumb topping separate until just before baking.
• Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, blue cheese, or goat cheese to create unique flavor profiles.
• Create gluten-free versions by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and checking cheese ingredients for potential gluten contamination.
• Toast breadcrumbs briefly in a dry skillet before sprinkling to enhance their golden-brown crunch and nutty flavor.
• Cool completely, then freeze potato puffs in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag for quick reheating as appetizers or snacks.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

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4.6 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crowd-pleasing cheesy mashed potato puffs elevate comfort food to gourmet heights with their irresistible golden exterior and creamy interior. Guests will devour these crispy, cheesy delights that blend nostalgic potato goodness with elegant appetizer appeal.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 cups mashed potatoes
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 large eggs

Flavor Enhancers:

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Coating and Garnish:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons chives, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon parsley, fresh (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Meticulously grease a mini muffin tin or line with parchment cups, ensuring complete surface coverage.
2. Whisk mashed potatoes, cheddar, Parmesan, eggs, melted butter, sour cream, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl until harmoniously blended.
3. Carefully portion the potato mixture into each muffin cavity, gently compressing to create uniform, compact puffs.
4. Craft a seasoned breadcrumb topping by mixing with a delicate pinch of salt and pepper, then generously dust over each potato puff.
5. Transfer the muffin tin to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven, allowing the puffs to transform into golden, crispy delicacies over 20-25 minutes.
6. Once achieved a perfect amber hue with crisp edges, remove from oven and embellish with fresh parsley sprigs.
7. Serve immediately while warm and at peak crispness, presenting a delightful appetizer or side dish bursting with cheesy potato goodness.

Notes

• Ensure mashed potatoes are cool before mixing to prevent eggs from scrambling and maintain a smooth texture.
• For gluten-free option, replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour for a crispy topping.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like gouda, blue cheese, or monterey jack to create unique flavor profiles.
• Make ahead by preparing potato mixture the night before and refrigerating, then bake just before serving for convenient entertaining.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Appetizer, Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg