There’s something magical about the combination of fluffy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese, right? Imagine biting into a crispy exterior that gives way to an explosion of creamy, cheesy goodness. That’s the moment you know you’ve hit culinary gold with mashed potato cheese puffs. creamy garlic potato dish savory potato side dish It’s a dish that beckons you to indulge, perfect for any gathering or as a comforting snack on a cozy movie night.
If you’re like me, you probably have fond memories of family dinners where cheesy goodness was the star of the show. These mashed potato cheese puffs are no exception; they bring everyone together, eliciting smiles and maybe even a few happy dances around the kitchen. vegetarian fritter option Perfect for parties, game days, or simply treating yourself after a long week, this dish promises an incredible flavor experience that you won’t soon forget.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Mashed potato cheese puffs are incredibly easy to whip up, making them ideal for both novice and seasoned cooks
- Each bite bursts with rich flavor from the cheese and herbs
- Their golden-brown exterior is visually enticing and makes for an impressive appetizer at gatherings
- These puffs can be enjoyed as a side dish or a delicious snack anytime!
I remember the first time I made these mashed potato cheese puffs; my friends practically raided my kitchen before they’d even cooled down! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Mashed Potatoes: Use leftover mashed potatoes for convenience; they add creaminess and flavor.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella works great here; choose your favorite melty variety.
- Eggs: They bind everything together and help achieve that puffiness we all love.
- Flour: A little goes a long way in giving structure to your puffs.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and some garlic powder elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
- Breadcrumbs: Coating your puffs ensures they turn golden and crispy in the oven.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Mixing It All Up: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine your leftover mashed potatoes with shredded cheese, eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until everything forms a cohesive mixture.
Scoop & Shape: Using your hands or a scoop, take portions of the mixture and shape them into small balls or puffs. Aim for golf ball-sized portions so they cook evenly.
Coat ‘Em Right: Roll each puff in breadcrumbs until fully coated. This will give your puffs that coveted crunch when baked.
Baking Time!: 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 irresistibly crispy.
Serving Suggestions: Once baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or marinara, for that extra zing!
These mashed potato cheese puffs are not just food; they’re little pockets of happiness!
You Must Know
- These mashed potato cheese puffs are a delightful blend of crispy outside and fluffy inside
- The aroma alone is enough to make anyone weak in the knees
- Perfect for parties or as a comforting snack, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by boiling your potatoes until fork-tender, then mash them smoothly before mixing in cheese and seasonings. Shape the mixture into puffs and bake until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheeses based on your preference—cheddar, mozzarella, or even blue cheese can add unique flavors. Add herbs like chives or parsley for an extra twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crunch.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly fluffy mashed potato cheese puffs, ensure potatoes are fully drained before mashing
- Avoid overmixing once you add cheese to keep them light and airy
- Baking them on parchment paper prevents sticking and helps achieve that golden-brown finish
Sharing these cheesy delights with friends at game night always leads to compliments and requests for the recipe! Their gooey center and crispy exterior have become a family favorite that brings everyone together.
FAQ
How can I make my mashed potato cheese puffs crispy?
Use less moisture in your potato mixture and bake at a higher temperature.
Can I freeze mashed potato cheese puffs?
Yes, freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag for storage.
What cheeses work best for this recipe?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda provide great flavor and melting qualities in your puffs.
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Indulge in the delightful crunch of mashed potato cheese puffs, where crispy exteriors give way to creamy, cheesy centers. Perfect as an appetizer for parties or a cozy snack for movie nights, these puffs are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Easy to make with simple ingredients, they’re a hit for all occasions!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized puffs using your hands or a scoop.
- Roll each puff in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 puff (30g)
- Calories: 94
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg