Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a favorite solution for transforming leftover mashed potatoes into a seriously addictive snack or party appetizer. The result is perfectly crisp on the outside with a fluffy, cheesy interior that disappears fast from the table.

I first tried these on a busy holiday morning when unexpected guests arrived. They were such a hit that now I plan to make extra mashed potatoes just for this recipe.

Ingredients

• Mashed potatoes: chilled ensures a firmer texture that shapes into puffs easily use homemade or good-quality store-bought
• Cheddar cheese: shredded cheese melts into the potatoes for irresistible richness sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor
• Large egg: helps bind the mixture so the puffs hold their shape look for farm-fresh eggs with bright yolks for best results
• Chives: chopped fresh chives add brightness and color check for crisp green stalks without wilting
• All-purpose flour: gives structure to the puffs making them light but not dense sift for the best texture
• Garlic powder: brings subtle aromatic warmth without overpowering stores best in an airtight container
• Salt and black pepper: to taste enhances all the other flavors use fresh ground pepper if possible
• Parmesan cheese: grated provides a savory crust when baked choose real Parmigiano-Reggiano for deep flavor
• Butter or non-stick cooking spray: for greasing ensures the puffs release easily from the pan real butter gives a touch of flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Pan:

Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius and give a mini muffin pan a thick coating of butter or non-stick spray so every puff releases cleanly

Mix the Potato Mixture:

In a big bowl stir together the mashed potatoes cheddar chives flour garlic powder salt and pepper Crack the egg in and mix well until the mixture is totally smooth and combined

Form and Coat the Puffs:

Scoop out small portions about one inch in size and gently roll them between your palms until round Next roll each ball in grated Parmesan so every surface is coated

Fill the Pan:

Place each coated ball into a muffin cup Press gently so it takes the shape of the cup this helps keep the puffs from spreading as they bake

Bake Until Crisp:

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for fifteen to twenty minutes Watch for the edges to turn golden and crisp Check at the fifteen minute mark to prevent burning

Cool and Serve:

Let the puffs cool in the pan for a few minutes This makes them easier to remove Serve while warm so the insides stay fluffy and the outsides stay crisp

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My favorite part is swirling chopped chives through the potato mixture and remembering how my grandmother would sneak extra green herbs from her garden to brighten every batch We once made these for a picnic and the entire basket was empty before we even unpacked the rest of our food

Storage Tips

Store any leftover potato puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator They will keep fresh for up to three days To re-crisp simply pop them back in a hot oven for five minutes or use a toaster oven for an even crunchier exterior Avoid microwaving as it softens the crust

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap cheddar for any melty cheese like mozzarella Gruyere or even pepper jack for a touch of spice If you are out of chives try thinly sliced scallions or a bit of finely minced fresh parsley For a gluten-free version replace all-purpose flour with a cup for cup gluten free blend

Serving Suggestions

These puffs are amazing straight from the oven but they also pair well with a zesty dip like sour cream mixed with extra chives A platter of them on a holiday buffet disappears fast I sometimes tuck a tiny piece of cooked bacon inside the center for a surprise burst of flavor

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Cultural Historical Context

Potato cakes and croquettes have been European comfort foods for centuries The cheesy mash-up version is a bit of an American adaptation inspired by practical cooking and making most of leftovers Many homes revive leftover mash in fritters but baking them in mini cups gives them a cute and portable form perfect for casual gatherings

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this dish?

Yes, chilled leftover mashed potatoes work very well and help the puffs hold their shape during baking.

→ What type of cheese is best?

Sharp cheddar creates a rich flavor, while Parmesan adds a crispy coating. You can also experiment with other melting cheeses.

→ How do I prevent sticking in the muffin pan?

Generously grease the muffin pan with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy release of the potato puffs.

→ Can these be made ahead?

Yes, you can bake the puffs in advance and reheat them in a warm oven before serving to restore their crispness.

→ Are there ways to add extra flavor?

A pinch of paprika or cayenne provides additional depth and complements the cheesy, herby notes of the puffs.