Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a fun, flavorful twist on traditional mashed potatoes! They’re crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, and are perfect as a side dish or appetizer. The cheese adds a savory richness, while the puffs hold together beautifully with a light, fluffy texture.

Ingredients:

4 cups mashed potatoes (preferably made in advance, chilled)
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for coating, optional)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin with non-stick spray or lightly coat it with butter. If you prefer, you can also line the muffin tin with paper liners.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- If you don’t already have mashed potatoes prepared, make them ahead of time and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Cold mashed potatoes work best for this recipe because they hold their shape when baked.
- If using store-bought mashed potatoes, make sure they’re well-seasoned and creamy.
Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, sour cream (or cream cheese), chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir the mixture until all ingredients are evenly combined and the mixture is smooth. If the mashed potatoes feel too thick, you can add a little milk or cream to loosen them up.
Shape the Puffs:
- Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mashed potato mixture into each muffin cup, pressing the mixture down gently to compact it. You can also use your fingers to shape them into little mounds.
- If desired, sprinkle a small amount of breadcrumbs on top of each puff to add a crispy texture.
Bake:
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. The puffs should be firm on the outside but soft and cheesy on the inside.
Garnish and Serve:
- Once the puffs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or more shredded cheese, if desired.
Enjoy!
Serve these cheesy mashed potato puffs warm as a side dish, appetizer, or snack. They’re perfect for any occasion, especially for holiday dinners or parties!

Tips:

Make Ahead: You can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can also assemble the puffs ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like gouda, Gruyère, or even cream cheese for a richer flavor.
For Extra Crispiness: If you want the puffs to have an extra crispy exterior, broil them for 2-3 minutes after baking, but be sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
Serving Suggestion: These puffs are delicious served with a dollop of sour cream, ketchup, or even a bit of spicy mustard.