Discover How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Today!

Imagine taking your humble leftover mashed potatoes and transforming them into crispy, golden-brown Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs – a delectable and versatile side dish or snack that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. These irresistible puffs are the perfect way to breathe new life into those extra spuds, combining the creamy comfort of mashed potatoes with the indulgence of melted cheese and a crispy exterior. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite!

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

To create these heavenly Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added crunch)
• Cooking spray or melted butter, for greasing the muffin tin

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get started on these cheesy masterpieces? Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or melted butter.

Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, green onions or chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and breadcrumbs (if using). Stir until everything is well combined, creating a delightfully creamy and cheesy mixture.

Fill Muffin Tin

Spoon the potato mixture evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Gently press down the tops to pack them slightly, ensuring a nice, compact shape.

Bake

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are set.

Cool Slightly and Serve

Let the potato puffs cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before carefully removing them. Serve these warm and irresistible treats as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, and get ready for the rave reviews!

Why Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes?

Utilizing leftover mashed potatoes is not only a brilliant way to reduce food waste, but it also saves you time in the kitchen. Instead of starting from scratch, you can repurpose those extra spuds into a delightful new creation – Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs. This recipe is the perfect solution for transforming bland leftovers into a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing dish. Plus, you’ll feel good about minimizing food waste and getting the most out of your resources.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Serve them as a side dish alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or hearty salads for a complete and satisfying meal. They also make a fantastic appetizer or snack, especially when accompanied by dipping sauces like sour cream, ranch, or even a spicy marinara. Get creative and explore different pairings to find your perfect match!

Variations of Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

While the classic Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a true delight, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. Try swapping out the cheddar cheese for other melty varieties, such as mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses. For a veggie-packed twist, fold in sautéed spinach, diced bell peppers, or caramelized onions. For a spicy kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine!

FAQs for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

What ingredients do I need to make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?

To make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs, you will need the following ingredients:

• Mashed potatoes (fresh or leftover)
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
• Eggs
• Breadcrumbs (for coating)
• Green onions or chives (optional for added flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or oil for frying/baking

Can I make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs ahead of time! You can form the puffs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before cooking. Just ensure to thaw them before frying or baking for best results.

How do I cook Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?

You can cook Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs in several ways:

• Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
• Frying: Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the puffs in batches until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels before serving.

What can I serve with Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs pair well with a variety of dishes. You can serve them as a side with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or salads. They also make a great appetizer! Consider serving them with dipping sauces like sour cream, ranch, or marinara for extra flavor.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Loaded BBQ Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole
• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potato Pancakes
• Meatball and Mashed Potato Bake
• Parmesan Potato Stacks

Conclusion

Embrace the delightful combination of creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and a crispy exterior with these irresistible Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover potatoes or simply craving a comforting and crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these cheesy, flavor-packed puffs that are perfect for any occasion!

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