If you’re looking for a way to elevate your mashed potatoes, Mashed Potato Puffs are the answer! These fluffy, crispy, golden-brown bites are a perfect side dish for any meal, or even a savory snack. With a creamy mashed potato base, combined with cheese and seasonings, these puffs are baked to perfection and sure to be a crowd favorite.
Let’s get into how you can make these delicious mashed potato puffs right at home!
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably chilled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin or a regular muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray. The mini muffin tin will give you the perfect bite-sized puffs, but you can also make them larger in a regular muffin tin.
Step 2: Prepare the Potato Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, sour cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Seasonings
Add the eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated, and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Shape the Puffs
Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin. Fill each cup almost to the top, gently smoothing the tops with the back of the spoon.
Step 5: Coat with Breadcrumbs
Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the tops of the mashed potato puffs. This will give them that extra crispy exterior. You can use regular breadcrumbs or panko for extra crunch.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the mashed potato puffs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and slightly crispy. You can check by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the puffs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately, and enjoy!
Cooking Notes & Tips
- Chilled Potatoes Work Best: For best results, make sure your mashed potatoes are chilled. Fresh mashed potatoes can make the mixture too soft and difficult to shape.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese in the mixture. Mozzarella adds a wonderful meltiness, while Gouda or Gruyère can provide a deeper, richer flavor.
- Add Bacon: For an extra indulgent twist, you can mix in crispy bacon bits to the mashed potato mixture.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the mashed potato mixture ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and then bake the puffs when you’re ready. You can also freeze the formed puffs and bake them later.
Variations
1. Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potato Puffs
Add 1 tablespoon of garlic powder and an extra handful of shredded mozzarella cheese to the mixture for a cheesy, garlic-loaded flavor.
2. Bacon and Chive Puffs
Incorporate crispy bacon bits and chopped chives into the mashed potatoes for a smoky, savory twist.
3. Spicy Jalapeño Puffs
For a little heat, add finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture and top the puffs with sriracha sauce after baking.
4. Ranch Mashed Potato Puffs
Stir in 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning to the otato mixture for a creamy, tangy flavor boost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, leftover mashed potatoes work great for this recipe! Just make sure they are chilled before using them to help the puffs hold their shape better.
2. How can I make these puffs ahead of time?
You can prepare the mashed potato mixture and fill the muffin tin in advance. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply place them in the oven and bake as directed.
3. Can I freeze these mashed potato puffs?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked puffs. After shaping them, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
4. Can I make these puffs without cheese?
Yes, the cheese can be omitted for a lighter version, though it will reduce the richness and flavor of the puffs. You could substitute with dairy-free cheese for a non-dairy version.
These Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect way to transform humble mashed potatoes into a flavorful, crispy delight. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or as part of your appetizer spread, they’re sure to be a hit! With their creamy interior and golden, crunchy exterior, each bite is a comforting explosion of flavor.
Enjoy these easy-to-make mashed potato puffs next time you want to serve something a little different—and prepare for rave reviews from your family and friends!
