Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

If you’re anything like me, you can never say no to cheesy, crispy, warm comfort food, and these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are absolutely irresistible. Imagine crispy golden bites on the outside, with a creamy, cheesy mashed potato center that will make your taste buds sing. Trust me, this is the kind of dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer. These puffs are a game-changer, and I’m so excited for you to try them!

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a party, or simply treating yourself to a comforting snack, Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs will quickly become a favorite. Here’s why:

Versatile: Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, these little puffs are always a hit. They’re super versatile, and everyone will love them.

Budget-Friendly: You don’t need fancy ingredients to make something delicious. These puffs are made with simple pantry staples that won’t break the bank but will still taste incredible.

Quick and Easy: I know sometimes the thought of cooking can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry! These puffs are easy to make, even for beginners. Once you’ve got the mashed potatoes ready, the rest is a breeze.

Customizable: Feel free to play around with flavors! If you want to add some crispy bacon, herbs, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika, the possibilities are endless. Make them your own!

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for both kids and adults. I can almost guarantee these puffs will disappear faster than you can say “seconds!”

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make these irresistible cheesy mashed potato puffs. (Note: full measurements can be found in the recipe card below.)

Mashed Potatoes: The base of this dish. The fluffier and creamier your mashed potatoes, the better your puffs will be. You want them soft, well-seasoned, and full of flavor.

Cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella will give you that perfect mix of flavor and melty texture. The cheddar adds a rich tang, while the mozzarella gives that gooey stretch.

Eggs: These act as a binder, holding everything together. They’ll give the puffs structure and help them hold their shape.

Breadcrumbs: You’ll need both for the outer coating to get those puffs crispy and golden. The panko breadcrumbs will create the perfect crunch.

Green Onions: Fresh and flavorful, green onions bring a little zip to each bite. They add a wonderful bite to the creamy potatoes.

Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are all you need to bring out the flavors. Don’t forget to taste and adjust!

(Note: full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create these cheesy, crispy puffs!

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when your puffs hit the oven, they cook evenly and turn golden.

Combine the Mashed Potatoes and Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the cheese, eggs, green onions, and seasonings. Stir until everything is fully combined. The mixture should be creamy and easy to form into balls.

Form the Puffs: Scoop about a tablespoon of the mashed potato mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. You want them to be about the size of a golf ball.

Coat the Puffs: Roll each mashed potato ball in the breadcrumbs, making sure it’s fully coated. This will give them that crispy, golden exterior that everyone loves.

Bake to Perfection: Place the coated puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, let the puffs cool for a few minutes before serving. They’ll be hot inside, so be careful! Serve with a side of sour cream, ranch dressing, or ketchup for dipping if you like.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6-8
Calories per serving: 180-250 (depending on the size of your puffs)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

These puffs are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when paired with a few tasty sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

Fresh Salad: Pair them with a simple green salad, maybe with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the puffs.

Dipping Sauces: Serve them with a side of ranch, sour cream, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra burst of flavor.

Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots would make a great pairing for a well-rounded meal.

Main Dish: These puffs can also be served alongside a juicy steak, chicken, or pork chops for a hearty, satisfying dinner.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to make your puffs even more amazing:

Prep Ahead: You can form the puffs ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and bake them just before serving. This saves you time!

Spice It Up: If you want a little heat, add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the mashed potato mixture for a kick.

Dietary Adjustments: For a vegetarian option, skip the bacon or meat-filled add-ins. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free version.

Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.

Double the Batch: These puffs are perfect for making in large batches. You can freeze them after baking and then reheat for a quick snack later.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
A1: Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work wonderfully here, and they save you some prep time.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can form the puffs ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve!

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

Q4: Can I freeze these puffs?
A4: Yes! After baking, let them cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready.

Q5: Can I use different cheese?
A5: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, parmesan, or Monterey Jack.

Q6: Can I add bacon or other meat to these puffs?
A6: Definitely! Add crispy bacon bits or cooked sausage for a heartier puff. The options are endless!

Q7: What’s the best way to reheat these puffs?
A7: Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will keep them crispy.

Q8: Can I make these puffs in a deep fryer?
A8: Yes! You can deep fry them for a crispy exterior, but be sure to heat the oil to 375°F (190°C) and fry in small batches.

Q9: What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
A9: You can use crushed crackers or even cornflakes for a crunchy coating alternative.

Q10: How can I make these puffs spicier?
A10: Add jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to the mashed potatoes for an extra kick!

Conclusion

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect mix of crispy, cheesy, and comforting. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or just because you need a little snack, they’ll never disappoint. The best part is that they’re easy to make and so versatile—you can tweak them to your liking. So go ahead, make a batch, and enjoy these crispy, cheesy delights! Trust me, you’re going to love every bite.

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