Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these cheesy mashed potato puffs! They’re the ultimate comfort food that takes creamy mashed potatoes and elevates them into delightful little bites. Perfect as a snack or a side dish, these puffs are crispy on the outside and ooey-gooey on the inside, thanks to the melted cheese. I mean, who wouldn’t want to munch on these golden goodies? Plus, they’re so easy to whip up using leftover mashed potatoes, making them a fantastic way to avoid waste while treating yourself to something truly delicious. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably creamy and smooth)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (feel free to use your favorite type!)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for that crispy exterior)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (adds a fresh zing)
- 1 egg (to bind everything together)
- Salt to taste (don’t hold back; flavor is key!)
- Pepper to taste (a little kick goes a long way)
How to Prepare Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because you want those puffs to bake up perfectly golden and crispy!
- Next, grab a large mixing bowl and combine your creamy mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there; it’s the best way to ensure everything is mixed evenly!
- Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to form those delicious puffs. Take a handful of the mixture and roll it into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. This part is fun, and you can make them as big or small as you like.
- Now, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and place your potato balls on the sheet, giving them a little space in between so they can puff up nicely.
- Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a beautiful golden brown and your kitchen starts to smell irresistible!
- Once baked, let them cool for a minute or two, then serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- Deliciously cheesy flavor that everyone will adore; it’s comfort food at its best!
- Versatile recipe—swap in your favorite cheese or add herbs for a personal touch.
- Uses leftover mashed potatoes, so no waste and maximum deliciousness!
- Great as a snack, appetizer, or side dish; they fit into any meal!
- Fun to make with kids; rolling the puffs is a playful kitchen activity!
Tips for Success
To ensure your cheesy mashed potato puffs turn out perfectly every time, here are a few tips from my kitchen to yours! First, make sure your mashed potatoes are smooth and free of lumps; this helps with texture and binding. If your mixture feels a bit too wet, add a touch more breadcrumbs to help firm it up. Also, don’t skip the preheating step—starting with a hot oven is key for that crunchy exterior! And remember, let them cool for just a minute before diving in; they’ll hold their shape better while still being deliciously warm. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Just a quick note: nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so take these numbers as a general guideline! Each serving (about 3 puffs) contains approximately 150 calories, 7g fat, 4g protein, and 18g carbohydrates. Enjoy these cheesy mashed potato puffs guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Just make sure they’re fully thawed and well-mixed before using them in this recipe. It’s a great time-saver!
How can I make these puffs spicier?
If you love a little heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mixture. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce!
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the potato mixture, form the puffs, and then freeze them before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This way, they’ll regain that crispy texture, and you won’t lose any cheesy goodness!
Are these puffs gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, simply swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. There are plenty of options available that work just as well!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your cheesy mashed potato puffs, simply place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, but trust me, they won’t last that long! When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and arrange the puffs on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and crispy again. This method helps retain that delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the cheesy goodness inside. Enjoy every bite!
Serving Suggestions
These cheesy mashed potato puffs are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes! I love pairing them with a fresh garden salad for a light meal or alongside grilled chicken for a heartier dinner. They also make a fabulous appetizer next to a tangy dipping sauce, like ranch or spicy sriracha mayo. And let’s not forget about serving them at brunch with eggs and crispy bacon—such a delightful combo! The options are endless!
Print
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs: 2 Irresistible Comfort Bites
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy mashed potato puffs are a delicious snack or side dish made from creamy mashed potatoes and cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 egg
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small balls.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for a quicker prep.
- Adjust cheese type for different flavors.
- Can be frozen before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 puffs
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cheesy mashed potato puffs
