Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs: A Delightful Bite-Sized Treat

If you’re like me, you understand that great comfort food can brighten any day. Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a nostalgic, cheesy delight that transforms ordinary mashed potatoes into a crispy, cheesy treat. Perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes or simply because you want something delicious, these puffs are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re sure to elicit smiles at your table.

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are many reasons to fall in love with Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. First, they are incredibly versatile—great for parties, family dinners, or even just a quiet weeknight when you’re in need of something comforting. They bridge the gap between a traditional potato dish and an exciting finger food, making them a favorite among both adults and kids alike.

“These puffs were a huge hit at our family gathering—everyone kept asking for more! The cheese made them irresistible.”

Not only do they satisfy hunger, but they’re also budget-friendly. You can make them with pantry staples and leftovers, turning what could be a mundane meal into something extraordinary. No wonder this recipe deserves a spot on your table!

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs is straightforward. You’ll start by combining ingredients in a bowl, then form them into bite-sized balls before either frying or baking to golden perfection. Just follow these steps for a delightful experience:

1. Gather your ingredients and make sure they’re prepped.
2. Mix warm mashed potatoes with cheese and seasonings.
3. Shape into balls and cook until crispy.

Let’s break down the essentials!

Gather Your Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following:

• 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes (You can use leftovers or make fresh ones by boiling and mashing them with butter and cream.)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Oil or cooking spray for frying or baking

Feel free to substitute different cheeses, like Gouda or mozzarella, for a new flavor twist!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. If you’re using fresh potatoes, boil them in salted water until fork-tender. Mash with butter and cream until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, mix the warm mashed potatoes with the cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
3. Scoop the mixture into golf ball-sized portions and roll them gently between your palms to form balls.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking. Alternatively, heat oil in a deep fryer to fry the puffs.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown or fry until crispy and brown.
6. Allow them to cool slightly before serving warm to enhance the cheesy flavor.

Tips for Serving

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are delightful on their own, but pairing them with a dipping sauce can elevate the experience. Consider serving them with:

• A tangy ranch or blue cheese dip
• Spicy sriracha mayonnaise
• A light garlic aioli for added flavor

You can also serve them alongside a fresh garden salad or as part of a more extensive appetizer spread at your next gathering!

Best Way to Store Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Storing these puffs is quite simple. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just be sure to let them thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again.

Pro Chef Tips

1. Use Warm Mashed Potatoes: Mixing warm potatoes with the other ingredients helps them combine more smoothly, enhancing the texture.
2. Cook in Batches: If frying, cook only a few puffs at a time to prevent overcrowding, ensuring they fry evenly.
3. Experiment with Cheese: Don’t be afraid to mix different types of cheese or add herbs and spices for a flavor kick!

Creative Twists on the Original

While the classic version is fantastic, you can also customize these puffs. Try adding:

• Herbs: Fresh chives or parsley for a color and flavor boost.
• Bacon Bits: For that savory crunch, add some crispy bacon bits to the mixture.
• Spices: A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a bit of a kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the prep time for Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, while cooking can take an additional 20-25 minutes, depending on whether you choose to bake or fry them.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes. Just prepare them according to package instructions, ensuring they’re not too wet, as it might affect the texture of the puffs.

How do I keep leftovers fresh?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is ideal—simply thaw before reheating to retain their deliciousness.

Enjoy making your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs—they might just become a new favorite in your home!

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

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• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful bite-sized treat that transforms ordinary mashed potatoes into crispy, cheesy puffs, perfect for snacks or appetizers.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Oil or cooking spray for frying or baking

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Instructions

1. If using fresh potatoes, boil them in salted water until fork-tender. Mash with butter and cream until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, mix warm mashed potatoes with cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Scoop the mixture into golf ball-sized portions and roll them gently between your palms to form balls.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking. Alternatively, heat oil in a deep fryer to fry the puffs.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown or fry until crispy and brown.
6. Allow them to cool slightly before serving warm to enhance the cheesy flavor.

Notes

Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, sriracha mayonnaise, or garlic aioli. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for a month.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking or Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 puffs
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: mashed potatoes, cheese puffs, comfort food, appetizer, snack