Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful and savory treat that brings comfort food to a whole new level! With crispy exteriors and creamy interiors, these puffs are a hit for any occasion, whether as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Why make this recipe?
This recipe is perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes, and it’s incredibly easy to whip up. The combination of cheese and potatoes is always a favorite, plus they’re fun to make! Not to mention, these puffs are both kid-friendly and adult-approved. 🧀🥔
How to prepare Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Ingredients:
- 🥔 Mashed potatoes
- 🧀 Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 🥚 Egg
- 🌿 Chopped green onions
- 🍞 Breadcrumbs
- 🧈 Melted butter
- 🧂 Salt
- 🧂 Pepper
- 🧄 Garlic powder
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 🏠
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, egg, chopped green onions, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well until all ingredients are blended. 🥄
- Form the potato mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
- Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until well coated. 🍞
- Place the cheese puffs on the prepared baking sheet, and drizzle melted butter over them. 🧈
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. ⏲️
- Allow to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy!
How to serve Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Serve your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs warm, fresh out of the oven! They are delicious on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, sour cream, or a spicy aioli.
How to store Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain their crispiness.
Tips for preparing Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
- For extra flavor, try mixing in cooked bacon bits or diced bell peppers to the potato mixture.
- Make sure your mashed potatoes are well-seasoned.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied tastes—goat cheese or pepper jack can make a lovely addition!
Variations
- Loaded Mashed Potato Puffs: Add crumbled bacon and shredded cheese for a “loaded” twist.
- Veggie Puffs: Mix in cooked spinach or kale for a nutritional boost.
- Spicy Puffs: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
FAQs
1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes can work, but fresh mashed potatoes usually yield better taste and texture.
2. Can I freeze Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?
Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Just bake them straight from the freezer, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar and mozzarella are popular choices, but you can use any cheese you enjoy. Just select one that melts well!
Now it’s time to enjoy making your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs! Happy cooking! 🥳