When the aroma of cheesy mashed potato puffs wafts through the air, your taste buds are in for a treat. Imagine golden brown bites with a crispy exterior, bursting with warmth and creamy potato goodness inside. These delightful little nuggets are not just food; they are pure happiness on a plate, ready to elevate any meal or party snack.
I remember the first time I made these cheesy mashed potato puffs; my kitchen transformed into a bustling hub of laughter and joy. My friends’ reactions were priceless as they popped them into their mouths with wide eyes, proclaiming them the best thing since sliced bread—well, maybe even better! Perfect for game day or a cozy family dinner, these little gems will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy mashed potato puffs are incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to dish for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is rich and buttery, with gooey cheese melting in every bite
- Their golden-brown color creates an inviting presentation that impresses guests at any gathering
- Versatile enough to pair with various dips or sauces, they can be enjoyed as appetizers or sides
I still chuckle when I think about how my family devoured them in record time during the last holiday dinner.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Mashed Potatoes: Use leftover mashed potatoes for convenience; they add creaminess and flavor to the puffs.
Shredded Cheese: Choose your favorite cheese blend for that gooey melt; cheddar works wonders here.
Eggs: One large egg helps bind everything together while adding richness to the texture.
Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor and crunch on the outside.
Green Onions: Freshly chopped green onions bring brightness and a mild onion flavor to balance the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget to season! A pinch of each enhances all other flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
Mix the Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, combine leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, green onions, salt, and pepper until well mixed. You want everything nicely blended but still chunky for texture.
Scoop and Shape the Puffs: Using an ice cream scoop or your hands, portion out the mixture into small balls. Aim for golf ball-sized puffs that will hold their shape during baking.
Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each puff in breadcrumbs until fully coated; this adds that essential crunchy exterior we all crave. Don’t be shy; get those hands a bit messy!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place the puffs on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on top. The smell will drive you wild!
Serve Warm and Enjoy!: Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauces. Trust me; you’ll want to dive in right away!
Enjoy these cheesy mashed potato puffs at your next gathering or as a simple weeknight treat. Your friends and family will thank you—and who knows? You might just become their new culinary hero!
You Must Know
- Cheesy mashed potato puffs are a delightful way to use up leftovers
- They bring comfort food to a whole new level, with crispy exteriors and creamy interiors
- Perfect for parties, they’re sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling potatoes until tender, then mash while still hot for best texture. Mix in cheese, then scoop and bake until golden.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different cheeses or add herbs for extra flavor. Bacon bits or green onions make great additions too.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect cheesy mashed potato puffs, ensure your potatoes are well-drained after boiling to prevent sogginess
- Use a ricer for fluffy texture, and don’t skip cooling them before baking for crispiness
- Experiment with flavor additions like garlic for a savory kick
There was that one time I made these cheesy mashed potato puffs for a family gathering. To my surprise, they disappeared faster than I could say “seconds!” My uncle even asked if I could make them every week—now that’s a compliment!
FAQ
Can I freeze cheesy mashed potato puffs?
Yes, freeze before baking for up to two months; just thaw and bake when ready.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but mix it up with mozzarella or pepper jack for fun.
How do I make them healthier?
Use low-fat cheese or substitute half the potatoes with cauliflower for fewer calories.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Cheesy mashed potato puffs are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese into bite-sized, crispy delights. Perfect for game day or family gatherings, these puffs are sure to impress everyone with their rich flavor and golden-brown exterior. Easy to make and versatile enough to pair with your favorite dips, these cheesy morsels will have you coming back for seconds!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, egg, green onions, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Scoop out golf ball-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into balls.
- Coat each ball in seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Place the puffs on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
