Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

If you’re craving a snack that’s irresistibly creamy on the inside and satisfyingly crispy on the outside, let me introduce you to these delightful Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs. They take simple mashed potatoes to a whole new level by blending in sharp cheddar, fragrant chives, and a crispy Parmesan crust that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser appetizer or a cozy comfort food side, these puffs are an absolute must-try. Once you get a bite of these golden morsels, I promise you’ll want to make them again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the short list fool you—each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in bringing out the signature flavor and texture of the Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs. From creamy potatoes to the punch of cheddar and that crunchy Parmesan coating, these ingredients make the magic happen.

• 3 cups chilled mashed potatoes: The creamy base that provides richness and structure to your puffs.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together while baking.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharp and melty cheesiness throughout.
• Chopped chives (to taste): Introduces a fresh, mild onion flavor for a little zip.
• Flour (as needed): Helps firm up the mixture so the puffs maintain their shape.
• Garlic powder (to taste): Brings a subtle aromatic boost without overpowering.
• Salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
• Pepper (to taste): Adds a gentle kick to balance richness.
• Parmesan cheese (for coating): Creates an irresistible crispy and flavorful crust when baked.

How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

Start by placing your chilled mashed potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Add the egg, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle in just enough flour to help your mixture hold together without making it dense. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This step ensures every bite has a perfect balance of creaminess and cheesiness.

Step 2: Shape the Puffs

Once your mixture is ready, roll it into 1-inch balls using your hands. The size helps them bake evenly and gives you perfect bite-sized puffs. If the mixture feels too loose, add a little more flour until you can form nice balls without them falling apart.

Step 3: Coat with Parmesan

Next, roll each potato ball in grated Parmesan cheese. This coating adds a savory crust that crisps up beautifully in the oven, giving your puffs a golden finish and a mouthwatering texture contrast.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so your puffs don’t stick. Place the Parmesan-coated puffs evenly spaced on the sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crisp on the outside. The warm, cheesy interior will be a pleasant surprise with every bite.

How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped chives or a dusting of paprika on top to brighten the appearance and enhance the flavors. A small dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of garlic aioli on the side also makes a terrific complement without overshadowing the cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs pair wonderfully with fresh garden salads or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. They also work as a hearty accompaniment to grilled meats or roasted chicken, bringing a cozy, indulgent twist to the dinner table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, serve the puffs on a wooden board with skewers and a trio of dipping sauces like spicy ketchup, creamy ranch, or a tangy mustard. You can even customize the fillings by adding cooked bacon bits or swapping cheddar for pepper jack cheese to mix things up.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep their texture intact, avoid stacking them too tightly.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked potato puffs by prepping and shaping them, then placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making future snacks super convenient.

Reheating

For the best results when reheating, bake leftover or frozen puffs at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that delightful crunch.

FAQs

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes to make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?

Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly—they just need to be well-chilled so the mixture holds together nicely during baking.

What if I don’t have cheddar cheese?

You can substitute cheddar with any good melting cheese like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack. Each will give a different but delicious flavor profile.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend is suitable for baking to maintain the right consistency.

Is it possible to deep-fry the puffs instead of baking?

While you could deep-fry them for an extra crispy exterior, baking is a healthier option and still delivers great texture. If you choose frying, ensure the oil is hot enough to cook them evenly without absorbing excess grease.

How do I prevent the puffs from falling apart?

Make sure your mashed potatoes are well-chilled and incorporate enough egg and flour for binding. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more flour gradually until you can form firm balls.

Final Thoughts

Making Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs is a fun and rewarding experience that brings comfort food to a whole new level of deliciousness. With only a handful of ingredients, you can create these golden, cheesy bites that will impress family and friends alike. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own—it’s truly a little piece of potato heaven, crisped to perfection!

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