Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful fusion of comfort food and bite-sized goodness. These little puffs are a great way to transform simple mashed potatoes into something extraordinary, making them the perfect appetizer or side dish for any occasion. Whether you have leftover mashed potatoes from last night’s dinner or you want to impress your guests at a gathering, this recipe will be a hit at the table. The crispy exterior gives way to a cheesy, fluffy center that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.

What Makes This Recipe Special

There’s something magical about transforming humble ingredients into something that feels gourmet, and Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs do just that. They are not only tasty but also incredibly versatile. These cheesy bites are excellent for a cozy family brunch, a convenient weeknight dinner, or even as a party appetizer. Plus, they’re a budget-friendly way to use up leftovers.

“These mashed potato cheese puffs are a game changer! So easy to make, and everyone loves them!” – A Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs is a breeze, and the entire process takes less than an hour. Start by preparing your ingredients and then follow through with mixing, forming, and cooking. You’ll find it’s simple and satisfying—perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Gather Your Ingredients

To whip up these delectable puffs, you’ll need:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared, warm)
• 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/baking

Tip: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought mashed potatoes, or even frozen ones that you just need to heat up.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. If you’re starting with fresh potatoes, peel and boil them until fork-tender. Mash them with butter and cream until they’re smooth.
2. In a large bowl, combine the warm mashed potatoes with shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.
3. Using your hands or a scoop, form the mixture into golf ball-sized portions.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat oil in a deep fryer.
5. If baking, arrange the puffs on a greased baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. For frying, cook until they reach a crispy, golden perfection.
6. Allow them to cool slightly before serving warm for the best cheesy experience.

Best Way to Serve

These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your presentation with a few creative ideas. Consider serving them with a side of sour cream or a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or spicy aioli. They also pair well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables, making for a balanced meal.

Storage Tips

To keep your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven for a crispy texture.

Pro Chef Tips

1. Make sure your mashed potatoes are warm. Cold potatoes can lead to a dense texture.
2. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
3. Use a cookie scoop for perfectly shaped puffs and uniform cooking.
4. For added flavor, consider mixing in fresh herbs like chives or parsley.

Creative Twists

Want to spice things up? Try incorporating finely chopped cooked bacon or adding some spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika to the mixture. You could even make a sweet version by adding cinnamon and a touch of sugar if you’re feeling adventurous!

Your Questions Answered

1. How long does it take to make Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs?
From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 30-40 minutes.

2. Can I make these puffs in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator, then form and cook the puffs right before serving.

3. Are there any substitutes for the eggs?
Yes, you can use flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce as a binder if you’re looking for a vegan option.

4. How do I ensure the puffs stay crispy when reheating?
To maintain that delightful crunch, reheat them in the oven instead of the microwave. This will help restore their original texture!

Dive into making Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs today; your taste buds will thank you!

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

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

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Description

Delightful bites of mashed potatoes and cheese, perfect as an appetizer or side dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared, warm)
• 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/baking

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Instructions

1. If using fresh potatoes, peel and boil them until fork-tender, then mash with butter and cream until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, combine warm mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.
3. Form golf ball-sized portions of the mixture.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat oil in a deep fryer.
5. If baking, place puffs on a greased baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. For frying, cook until crispy and golden.
6. Let cool slightly before serving warm for the best experience.

Notes

Serve with sour cream or a tangy dipping sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking/Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 puff
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: mashed potatoes, cheese puffs, appetizers, side dish, comfort food