Name: Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought); 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 2 large eggs; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; ¼ cup chopped green onions; Salt and pepper to taste

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If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dish that can elevate any meal or gathering, look no further than cheesy mashed potato puffs. These delightful bites combine the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes with melty cheese and a crispy exterior, making them irresistible for both kids and adults alike. Perfect as a side dish or an appetizer, cheesy mashed potato puffs are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a family dinner, these puffs will add a fun twist to your table. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite herbs or spices for added flavor. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about making these cheesy delights from scratch, including tips for success and serving suggestions that will leave everyone wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Mashed Potatoes: Use fresh homemade mashed potatoes or store-bought; ensure they’re creamy without lumps for the best texture.
Shredded Cheese: Choose your favorite cheese varieties like cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey filling.
Eggs: You will need eggs as a binding agent to help hold the mixture together while baking.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add an extra crunch to the outside of your puffs; regular breadcrumbs can work too but won’t be as crispy.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh bite and enhance the flavor profile nicely.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled mashed potatoes with shredded cheese, eggs, chopped green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Shape the Puffs

Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form small balls of the mixture about two inches in diameter. Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Step 4: Bake the Puffs

Place the coated potato balls onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Cool Slightly

Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving platter.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Serve warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces like sour cream or ranch dressing for an extra treat.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: For easier handling when shaping your puffs, use leftover cold mashed potatoes from the fridge.
Add Flavor Variations: Experiment by adding herbs like parsley or spices like paprika for unique flavors in your puffs.
Freezing Option: You can freeze uncooked puffs on a baking sheet before transferring them to a bag; bake them straight from frozen when needed!

How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

This Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can prepare the cheesy mashed potato mixture up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you plan to bake them later, shape the puffs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper before storing.
Storing: Leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; they will stay good for up to three months when properly sealed.
Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the puffs on a baking sheet and cover them with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. For extra crispiness, remove the foil during the last five minutes of reheating.

Suggestions for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Use the Right Potatoes

Choosing the right type of potato is crucial for making delicious cheesy mashed potato puffs. Opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. These varieties yield a fluffier texture, allowing the puffs to rise beautifully during baking. Avoid waxy potatoes such as red potatoes, as they can make your mixture gummy and heavy, resulting in a less than ideal puff. Always ensure that you properly boil and mash the potatoes without overworking them. Over-mashing can lead to a dense texture. Remember, the goal is to achieve a light and airy consistency that will hold up well when baked.

Don’t Skimp on Cheese

The cheese is a star ingredient in cheesy mashed potato puffs, so don’t hold back! Use a combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese for maximum flavor and creaminess. Sharp cheddar provides a robust taste while cream cheese adds a smooth texture that blends beautifully with the mashed potatoes. Make sure to incorporate the cheese evenly throughout the mixture for consistent flavor in every bite. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese; it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting and overall texture. Freshly grated cheese will melt better and provide an enhanced taste.

Monitor Baking Time

Baking time can make or break your cheesy mashed potato puffs. If you bake them for too long, they may become dry or overly crispy on the outside while remaining undercooked inside. Start checking on them around the 15-minute mark to ensure they reach a golden brown color without burning. Every oven behaves differently, so adjust your baking time according to your specific appliance’s performance. Keeping an eye on them will yield perfectly cooked puffs that are crispy on the outside yet fluffy on the inside.

Avoid Overcrowding the Baking Sheet

When placing your cheesy mashed potato puffs on the baking sheet, give them enough space to breathe. Overcrowding can cause them to steam rather than bake properly, leading to soggy bottoms instead of crispy edges. Aim to leave at least an inch between each puff for optimal airflow. If you’re making a large batch, consider using multiple sheets or baking in batches. This simple tip ensures even cooking and allows each puff to achieve its perfect texture while retaining its cheesy goodness.

FAQs

What are Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?

Cheesy mashed potato are small, fluffy balls made from mashed potatoes mixed with cheese and other ingredients, then baked until golden brown. They offer a delightful combination of creamy interior and crispy exterior, making them an ideal snack or side dish. Often flavored with garlic or herbs, these puffs pair wonderfully with various main courses or can be enjoyed alone as an appetizer.

How do I store leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?

Storing leftover cheesy mashed potato puffs is straightforward to maintain their delightful taste and texture. Place completely cooled puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them by laying out single layers on a baking sheet before transferring them into freezer-safe bags or containers once frozen solid. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in an oven until warmed through and crisp.

Can I make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare cheesy mashed potato puffs ahead of time! To do this, complete all steps until you are ready to bake them—then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze pre-formed puffs individually before placing them into bags for longer storage. Baking from frozen may take slightly longer but still yields delicious results when you’re ready for a quick snack!

What can I serve with Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?

Cheesy mashed potato puffs make versatile accompaniments! They pair wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken or beef due to their rich flavors and satisfying textures. Serve alongside dipping sauces such as ranch dressing or spicy aioli for added fun! Additionally, they complement salads nicely by adding heartiness without overwhelming lighter dishes.

Conclusion for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

In summary, creating perfect cheesy mashed potato puffs requires attention to detail at every step—from selecting the right potatoes and cheeses to monitoring baking times and spacing on sheets properly. By avoiding common pitfalls like overcrowding and overcooking, you’ll enjoy delightful snacks that everyone loves! Whether served as appetizers at parties or as sides during family dinners, these fluffy delights add joy to any meal occasion while being easy enough for anyone to master at home! Enjoy your cooking adventure with these tasty treats!