Name: Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups creamy mashed potatoes; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; Optional garlic powder, to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs for coating

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Treat yourself to Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs—these delightful bites are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Outside: Each puff has a wonderful crunch that gives way to a soft, cheesy center.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
Perfect for Parties: They are always a hit at gatherings and serve as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Endless Customizations: Adapt the flavors according to your taste or dietary needs.
Comfort Food Redefined: Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs offer a nostalgic potato comfort with a fun twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The great thing about Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs is that you only need a few essential ingredients. Each one plays a significant role in creating that perfect blend of flavors, textures, and comforting goodness.

Mashed Potatoes: The base of our dish, creamy mashed potatoes create the delightful texture everyone loves.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a rich, gooey element that takes the flavor next level.
Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, helping hold the puffs together while also adding a fluffy quality.
Flour: Just a bit of flour helps achieve that golden-brown exterior for a crispy finish.
Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder bring out all the fantastic flavors in the dish.
Breadcrumbs: For the outside, breadcrumbs add extra crunch and a lovely texture contrast.

Variations for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs can be customized based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences, so let your creativity shine.

Herbed Puffs: Add fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Spicy Twist: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with various cheeses such as pepper jack, mozzarella, or goat cheese for unique flavor profiles.
Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate finely chopped cooked vegetables like carrots or spinach for extra nutrition.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour for a gluten-free version.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs that Wow the Crowd

How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Begin by boiling peeled and chopped potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and mash them with butter, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the warm mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, and flour. Mix until well incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Form the Puffs

Using your hands, form the potato mixture into small balls or patties, roughly the size of a golf ball. Roll each one in breadcrumbs for a crunchy coating.

Step 4: Bake the Puffs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Use Starchy Potatoes: Opt for russet or Yukon gold potatoes for the best texture.
Chill the Mixture: If the mixture feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to make it easier to form the puffs.
Don’t Skip the Breadcrumbs: They are essential for that delightful crunch you want!
Experiment with Seasonings: Enhance the flavor further by trying different herbs and spices.
Keep an Eye on Baking: Ovens vary—make sure to check your puffs to prevent overbaking.

How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Garnishes

For a pop of color and freshness, consider garnishing Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream.

Side Dishes

These puffs pair perfectly with a variety of side dishes, such as a crisp salad or a warm bowl of soup, making them a versatile addition to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not serve them on a rustic wooden board with toothpicks for easy snacking, or in mini cupcake liners at parties for a fun presentation?

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. They make a great snack or side for another meal.

Freezing

These tasty bites freeze beautifully. To freeze, place the formed, unbaked puffs on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

Reheating

To reheat, bake frozen puffs directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using leftover mashed potatoes is a fantastic way to repurpose them, just ensure they are seasoned well.

Are Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs suitable for kids?

Yes! Kids love the cheesy goodness and can help with shaping the puffs, making it a fun kitchen activity.

Can I make these puffs vegan?

Yes! You can use plant-based mashed potatoes, substitute eggs with ground flaxseed or aquafaba, and replace cheese with vegan cheese.

How can I change the flavor profile for a different cuisine?

To give these puffs an Italian twist, add Italian seasoning and serve with marinara sauce or for a Mexican flair, mix in taco seasoning and serve with salsa.

Can I air fry Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?

Definitely! Air frying is a great option for a healthier version. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Final Thoughts

Do yourself a favor and try making Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs. They are not just delicious but also a fun, interactive dish that brings a smile to every gathering. Your friends and family will adore them! Enjoy the cheesy goodness!