Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your leftover mashed potatoes into a delicious, bite-sized treat, you’re going to love this Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe. These golden, crispy puffs are packed with gooey cheddar, savory Parmesan, and a sprinkle of fresh chives that bring every bite to life. They’re perfect for sharing, crowd-pleasing at any gathering, or simply indulging in a warm, comforting snack that feels like a hug from your favorite comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients make the magic happen here. Each plays a key role in bringing the perfect blend of creaminess, cheesiness, and a hint of fresh flavor that defines the Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe.

• 2 cups cold mashed potatoes: Using cold potatoes helps the puffs hold their shape and gives a nice texture.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binding agent, keeping those puffs together during baking.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and melts beautifully for that irresistible gooey center.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a subtle nutty flavor and crispiness on top.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives: Freshness and a mild onion flavor that brightens every bite.
• 2 tablespoons sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to balance the cheese.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a gentle garlic kick without overpowering the potato.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and spice.
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing: Prevents sticking and helps create a golden crust.

How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or butter. This small prep step ensures your puffs will pop right out, crispy and perfect.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, blend together the cold mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, chopped chives, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined so each puff has an even cheesy, seasoned bite.

Step 3: Fill the Muffin Cups

Spoon the potato mixture into each greased mini muffin cup, filling them all the way up. Gently press down the tops — this helps the puffs hold their shape and bake evenly with a nice, golden crust.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the puffs for about 20 to 25 minutes until the tops turn a beautiful golden color and develop a slight crisp. You’ll want to keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid overbaking. Once done, let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before carefully removing.

How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle some extra chopped fresh chives or a light dusting of paprika right before serving for a pop of color and flavor. A dollop of sour cream on the side pairs wonderfully by adding a creamy contrast to the crispy puff tops.

Side Dishes

These puffs shine alongside a fresh green salad or steamed veggies, offering a comforting contrast that makes for a balanced meal. They’re also amazing as an appetizer at parties, served next to your favorite dips like ranch or spicy aioli.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try stuffing the puffs with crumbled cooked bacon or finely chopped cooked green onions before baking. You can even layer the cheese inside for an extra melty surprise that will wow your guests every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispy tops, avoid stacking them.

Freezing

These puffs freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. This way, you can enjoy your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe anytime with minimal prep.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated puffs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy on the outside. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crispness intact.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftover cold mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Just be sure to let freshly made mashed potatoes cool completely in the fridge before mixing. Warm potatoes will make it harder for the puffs to hold their shape.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Cheddar and Parmesan are traditional and taste fantastic together, but you can swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or your favorite melting cheese for a different flavor profile.

Can I make these gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses only potatoes and cheese without any flour or breadcrumbs. Just double-check any added seasonings or toppings to ensure they’re gluten-free.

How do I get the puffs extra crispy?

Greasing the muffin tin well and baking at a high temperature helps create a crispy crust. Pressing the mixture down firmly into the tins also promotes even crispiness.

Can I add other mix-ins to the puffs?

Definitely! Crumbled bacon, diced cooked green onions, or even small bits of cooked vegetables like bell pepper or jalapeño can add amazing flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about a batch of golden, cheesy potato bites fresh from the oven. This Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe is the kind of dish you’ll want to keep in your recipe arsenal for family dinners, parties, or whenever you crave a little comfort food magic. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy mashed potatoes!

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

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4.2 from 67 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 mini puffs 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious and easy-to-make cheesy mashed potato puffs, perfect as a side dish or appetizer. These mini bites combine creamy mashed potatoes with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, fresh chives, and a hint of garlic, baked to golden perfection in a mini muffin tin.

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Ingredients

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Mashed Potato Mixture

• 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Greasing

• Cooking spray or butter, for greasing the muffin tin

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin using cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped chives, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture is uniform and all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup to the top. Gently press the mixture down to compact it slightly for better shape and texture.
4. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puffs have turned golden on top and have a slightly crispy texture.
5. Cool and Serve: Allow the puffs to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before removing them carefully. Serve warm as a flavorful side dish or appetizer.

Notes

• Great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.
• Substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella, pepper jack, or your favorite melting cheese for a flavor variation.
• Add crumbled bacon or chopped green onions for extra flavor and texture.

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