If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing snack or side, the Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe is an absolute winner. These little bites perfectly combine creamy mashed potatoes with gooey cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, all baked until golden and fluffy. Whether you’re using leftover mashed potatoes or making them fresh, these puffs are irresistibly flavorful and delightfully crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a favorite to whip up for family dinners, parties, or whenever you want a cozy treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses a handful of simple ingredients that work beautifully together to create texture, flavor, and just the right golden color. Each one plays a key role whether it’s adding creaminess, binding everything perfectly, or giving it a cheesy kick.
- Mashed potatoes: Use leftover or freshly made mashed potatoes for the smooth, creamy base of your puffs.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts wonderfully to add a sharp, rich cheese flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty depth and helps with golden crispiness.
- Large eggs: Bind all the ingredients together for perfect puff shape and texture.
- Milk: Provides moisture for a creamy mixture without being runny.
- Green onions, chopped: Gives a fresh bite and a pop of green color.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to boost all the flavors well.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle punch of savory warmth.
- Smoked paprika (optional): For a gentle smoky note that elevates the dish.
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin to ensure your puffs don’t stick. This step is key for achieving a crisp, golden crust on each puff.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, chopped green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika if you’re using it, along with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is smooth, creamy, and well incorporated. This mixture strikes the perfect balance so each puff bakes with a soft, cheesy center and a slight golden crust.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the potato mixture into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Leaving a little room at the top helps the puffs bake evenly without overflowing, preserving that light, airy texture.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Pop the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for a lovely golden top and a puffed-up appearance. The puffs should be set but still moist and cheesy inside, with a delightful contrast between the crispy edges and soft centers.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
After baking, let the puffs cool slightly before gently removing them from the muffin tin. Serving them warm allows the cheese to be perfectly melty and the flavors to shine. These are best enjoyed fresh for the ultimate cheesy mashed potato experience.
How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra chopped green onion or fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the puffs just before serving. A light dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of spicy aioli can also elevate these delicious bites to new heights.
Side Dishes
These puffs pair beautifully with soups, roasted vegetables, or fresh salad greens for a well-rounded meal. Think creamy tomato basil soup or crisp roasted Brussels sprouts to complement the rich cheesiness of the potato puffs.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your cheesy mashed potato puffs as appetizers at gatherings. For a fun twist, stuff the centers with a cube of cooked bacon or jalapeño before baking. You could also turn them into mini sliders by sandwiching the puffs with pulled pork or roast chicken.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a quick snack or side on busy days.
Freezing
You can freeze these puffs on a baking sheet first, then transfer them into a freezer-safe bag. This prevents them from sticking together. Frozen puffs keep well for up to 2 months and are perfect for meal prep or last-minute treats.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the puffs in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep that wonderful texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
While freshly made or leftover homemade mashed potatoes yield the best texture and flavor, instant mashed potatoes can be used in a pinch. Just make sure they are not too dry and add a splash of milk for creaminess.
Is it okay to omit the smoked paprika?
Absolutely! The smoked paprika is optional and adds a nice subtle smoky dimension, but the puffs are delicious without it too.
Can I make these vegan or dairy-free?
You can substitute the cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives and replace eggs with flax eggs or another binder, but keep in mind the flavor and texture will be different. Experimenting is always fun!
How do I ensure the puffs hold their shape?
Using eggs properly as a binder and not overfilling the muffin cups helps maintain the puff shape. Also, letting them cool just a bit before removing from the tin ensures they won’t fall apart.
Can I add other ingredients to the puffs?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in cooked bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, herbs, or different cheeses. The base recipe is very versatile and welcomes creativity.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe inspires you to bring a little extra warmth and flavor to your table. These puffs are truly a joy to make and share, offering a perfect blend of comfort and cheesy goodness. Give them a try—you might find they become your new favorite way to enjoy mashed potatoes!
Print
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish featuring creamy mashed potatoes blended with sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and spices, baked to golden perfection in a muffin tin. Perfect for using leftover mashed potatoes, they’re fluffy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, chopped green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika if using, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and evenly combined.
- Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for puffing as they bake.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops of the puffs turn a golden brown color and the centers are set and firm to the touch.
- Serve Warm: Remove the puffs from the oven and allow them to cool slightly so they hold their shape when removed. Carefully take them out of the muffin tin and serve warm to enjoy the cheesy, fluffy texture at its best.
Notes
- You can use leftover mashed potatoes or make fresh mashed potatoes for this recipe.
- Adjust the seasonings like salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to suit your taste preferences.
- For extra crispiness, sprinkle a little extra cheddar on top of each puff before baking.
- Leftover puffs can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best texture retention.
- Green onions can be substituted with chives or finely diced regular onions if preferred.
