Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these cheesy mashed potato puffs! They’re like little bites of happiness that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a cozy side dish, these puffs are a crowd-pleaser. Imagine creamy mashed potatoes mixed with gooey cheese, all baked to a golden perfection. My family goes wild for them, and honestly, I love how easy they are to whip up. I often make them with leftover mashed potatoes, which makes prep a breeze! Trust me, once you try these little gems, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. They’re just that good!
Ingredients List
To make these delicious cheesy mashed potato puffs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes: Use your favorite homemade recipe or store-bought. Just make sure they’re creamy and smooth!
- 1 cup shredded cheese: Cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella or a blend for a different flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: This helps give the puffs a delightful crunch. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs depending on your taste.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Fresh and vibrant, they add a nice bite and a pop of color to the puffs.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: This adds richness and creaminess to the mixture. You can even use Greek yogurt if you prefer!
- 2 eggs: These help bind everything together, so don’t skip them!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your liking for the best flavor. I usually go heavy on the pepper!
How to Prepare Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Preheat Your Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the puffs cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown color. So don’t skip this step—trust me, it makes a difference!
Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, sour cream, and eggs. I like to use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mix everything together until well combined. You want the mixture to be cohesive but not overworked; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Just make sure all that cheesy goodness is evenly spread throughout!
Shape the Puffs
Now it’s time to form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. If you wet your hands a little, it’ll help prevent the mixture from sticking. Try to keep them uniform in size so they bake evenly—aim for about 12 puffs total. If you’ve got a scoop, that can make this process even easier!
Bake to Perfection
Place your formed puffs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. You’ll know they’re done when the edges look nice and toasty. Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving—this will help them firm up a bit!
Tips for Success
To really nail these cheesy mashed potato puffs, here are a few of my tried-and-true tips! First, using leftover mashed potatoes can save you time and give you that creamy texture right off the bat—bonus points for reducing waste! Don’t hesitate to add your favorite herbs like parsley or chives for an extra flavor kick. Also, if you like a bit of spice, a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate these to a whole new level. And remember, the key to that perfect crunch is baking until they’re golden brown, so keep an eye on them! You want them to be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Enjoy experimenting!
Variations of Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with these cheesy mashed potato puffs! For a different flavor, try using a blend of cheeses like gouda and pepper jack for a smoky kick. You can also sneak in some finely chopped veggies like spinach, broccoli, or even bell peppers to boost the nutrition and add a pop of color. Feeling fancy? Add some cooked bacon or crumbled sausage for that savory goodness! And don’t forget about spices—smoked paprika or Italian seasoning can give them a delightful twist. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make these puffs your own!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use. However, here’s a general idea of what you can expect per cheesy mashed potato puff: around 150 calories, 7g of fat, 4g of protein, and 18g of carbohydrates. It’s always a good idea to check the labels of your ingredients if you’re tracking specific dietary needs!
Serving Suggestions
These cheesy mashed potato puffs are delicious on their own, but they really shine when paired with some tasty dips! I love serving them alongside a tangy ranch dressing or a creamy garlic aioli for a flavor explosion. You could also try them with a spicy sriracha mayo for a little kick! As for sides, they make a fantastic addition to a hearty salad or as a side to grilled meats. Trust me, they’ll be the star of your table!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen mashed potatoes? Absolutely! Just make sure they’re thawed and heated through before mixing with the other ingredients. It’s a great time-saver!
How do I store leftovers? If you have any puffs left, let them cool completely and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for that crispy texture!
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs? If you need a gluten-free option, feel free to use crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs. They’ll still give you that nice crunch!
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the mixture and shape the puffs a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
What dipping sauces work best? I love pairing them with ranch dressing, but a spicy ketchup or a zesty mustard dip will also complement the flavors nicely!
Print
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs: 5 Bites of Pure Delight
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 puffs 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy mashed potato puffs are a delightful appetizer or side dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes with cheese, baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 eggs
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheese, breadcrumbs, green onions, sour cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small balls.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for quicker prep.
- Add herbs for extra flavor.
- Serve with dipping sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 puff
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: cheesy mashed potato puffs, appetizers, side dish, baked potatoes
