Introduction
Welcome to our delicious recipe for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs! If you’re a fan of fluffy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese, then this recipe is a must-try. Whether you’re looking for a fun side dish for a family dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for a party, these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are sure to impress. With their crispy exterior and creamy interior, they offer the perfect combination of textures and flavors. Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering treat that will leave you craving more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to love these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs. First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools, you can whip up a batch in no time. They are also versatile, allowing you to customize them to your liking. Whether you prefer cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of cheeses, you can create your own cheesy masterpiece. Additionally, these puffs are baked, not fried, making them a healthier alternative to traditional potato dishes. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them irresistible to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
To make these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties or add in some cooked bacon or sautéed onions for extra flavor. You can also replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour if you have dietary restrictions.
Step-by-Step 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, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the potato mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in three separate shallow bowls.
- Dip each potato ball into the flour, then the beaten eggs, and finally the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Place the coated potato balls back on the baking sheet and drizzle them with vegetable oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the cheese is gooey and the exterior is wonderfully crispy. Serve them as a side dish with your favorite main course or as a standalone appetizer with a dipping sauce of your choice.
Expert Tips for Success
For the best results, follow these expert tips:
– Make sure your mashed potatoes are well-seasoned before using them in this recipe. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
– When shaping the potato mixture into balls, wet your hands with water to prevent sticking.
– To make the coating process easier, use one hand for dipping the potato balls in the flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, and the other hand for rolling them in the coating.
– For extra crispy puffs, you can brush them with melted butter instead of vegetable oil before baking.
– If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
While these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are delicious as is, you can also get creative and try different variations:
– Add some cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham to the potato mixture for a savory twist.
– If you’re a fan of spice, mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give these puffs a kick.
– Experiment with different cheese combinations such as mozzarella and Gruyère or pepper jack and Monterey Jack.
– If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add some sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:
– As a side dish: Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or your favorite main course for a comforting and flavorful side dish.
– As an appetizer: Arrange the puffs on a platter and serve them with a selection of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or sour cream and chive dip.
– As a party snack: These puffs are perfect for parties and gatherings. Serve them alongside other finger foods like mini sliders, chicken wings, or vegetable sticks.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?
A: Yes, you can freeze these puffs before baking. Simply shape the potato mixture into balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, preheat your oven and follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
A: Absolutely! These puffs are a great way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes. Just make sure they are well-chilled and properly seasoned before using them in this recipe.
Q: Can I make these puffs ahead of time?
A: While these puffs are best enjoyed fresh, you can make them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven before serving. Simply follow the recipe instructions, bake the puffs until they are just cooked through, then let them cool completely. Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake the puffs at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate comfort food that will satisfy your cravings for both mashed potatoes and cheese. With their crispy exterior, creamy interior, and irresistible flavors, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you serve them as a side dish or an appetizer, these puffs will impress your family and friends. So, grab your potatoes and get ready to indulge in a delightful treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Delicious mashed potato puffs loaded with cheddar and Parmesan cheese, seasoned with herbs and spices, coated in breadcrumbs, and baked to crispy perfection. These puffs are a perfect combination of creamy and crispy textures, making them a great side dish or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Shape the potato mixture into 1-inch diameter balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Prepare three shallow bowls with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Dip each potato ball into flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Place the coated potato balls back on the baking sheet, drizzle with vegetable oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve.
- Enjoy the puffs fresh with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish.
Nutrition Facts
