Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs: A Delicious Twist on Leftovers
Got leftover mashed potatoes? Don’t let them go to waste! Instead, transform them into these irresistible Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs. These fluffy, cheesy bites are a fantastic way to breathe new life into your leftovers. Whether you’re looking for a creative appetizer, a tasty side dish, or a savory snack, these potato puffs are sure to satisfy. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make and require just a handful of ingredients. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- Leftover mashed potatoes (or freshly made and cooled)
- Eggs
- Fresh chives
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or your favorite variety)
- Salt and pepper
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or line with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, beaten eggs, chopped fresh chives, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Fill the Muffin Tin: Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, divide the potato mixture evenly among the wells of the mini muffin tin, pressing down gently to compact the mixture.
- Bake the Potato Puffs: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potato puffs are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the potato puffs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream on top, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Cheddar, Gouda, or Swiss cheese would all work well in this recipe.
- Add Extra Flavor: Enhance the flavor of the potato puffs by adding ingredients like cooked bacon bits, diced jalapeños, or minced garlic to the mixture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the potato mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it perfect for entertaining or meal prep.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute the mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower for a low-carb alternative. Follow the same recipe instructions, using mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes.
- Keto-Friendly: To make this recipe keto-friendly, use almond flour instead of regular flour for a gluten-free and low-carb option. You can also replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds for added crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I freeze the potato puffs? A: Yes! Once baked, allow the potato puffs to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes? A: Absolutely! Store-bought mashed potatoes work just fine in this recipe. Simply make sure they are cooled before mixing them with the other ingredients.
Q: Can I make these potato puffs in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it convenient for parties or busy weeknights.
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a fantastic way to breathe new life into leftover mashed potatoes. With their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Whether you serve them as a tasty appetizer, a flavorful side dish, or a satisfying snack, these potato puffs are guaranteed to disappear fast. Give them a try and enjoy the deliciousness of cheesy mashed potatoes in a whole new way!
