Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs,
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe | Crispy & Cheesy Bites with Leftovers!
Looking for a delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes? These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect solution! Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, they’re an easy, flavorful snack, side dish, or appetizer. Packed with cheddar and Parmesan cheese, these puffs are a comforting treat your whole family will love.
Ingredients for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:
1️⃣ Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners to prevent the puffs from sticking.
2️⃣ Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, chopped green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper. Mix everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
3️⃣ Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Use a spoon or your fingers to smooth the tops of the puffs.
4️⃣ Bake
Bake for 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C), or until the tops are golden brown and the puffs are set in the center. You can check the doneness by gently pressing the center of a puff; it should feel firm and spring back.
5️⃣ Serve Warm
Once baked, let the Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs cool slightly before carefully removing them from the muffin tin. Serve them warm, and enjoy their crispy, cheesy goodness!
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for a quick, easy meal or snack. If using freshly made potatoes, let them cool down a bit before mixing.
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the tops of the puffs with cooking spray or olive oil before baking.
- Customize with additional flavors: Add some cooked bacon bits, chives, or even shredded mozzarella for an extra twist.
- Don’t overmix: Once you’ve added the wet ingredients, mix just enough to combine—this will keep the puffs fluffy.
Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:
- Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe is a genius way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes, reducing waste while creating a tasty treat.
- Crispy on the Outside, Fluffy on the Inside: The combination of cheese and mashed potatoes creates a delightful texture that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
- Versatile: Serve these puffs as a snack, side dish, or appetizer at your next dinner or party.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy flavor and fun, bite-sized portions—making it a great option for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and a short baking time, these puffs come together quickly and easily.
Nutritional Benefits of Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:
- Potatoes provide a good source of carbohydrates and potassium, helping to fuel your body and support heart health.
- Cheddar and Parmesan offer calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
- Green onions add a fresh touch while providing some extra vitamins and antioxidants.
FAQ About Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:
- Can I freeze these puffs? Yes! Once cooled, place the puffs in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to crisp them up again.
- Can I use different cheeses? Absolutely! Feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of your favorite cheeses to create a unique flavor.
- Can I make these puffs ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the puffs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. You can also freeze them before baking for a quicker prep time later.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 12 puffs
Enjoy your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs—crispy on the outside, cheesy and fluffy on the inside. Perfect for any occasion!
