The aroma of freshly baked Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs wafts through the kitchen, a delightful blend of cheesy goodness and fluffy potatoes. Picture the moment when you take that first bite; the crispy exterior gives way to a soft, creamy center that dances on your taste buds. twice baked sweet potatoes It’s a flavor explosion that brings back memories of family gatherings and lazy Sunday brunches.
I remember the first time I made these little wonders for a potluck. My friends couldn’t believe their taste buds when they experienced the cheesy potato magic. balsamic Brussels sprouts Now, they request them at every get-together! These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s game day or just a cozy night in.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are easy to whip up, making them ideal for any home cook
- The rich flavor profile combines creamy potatoes with melty cheese for an irresistible treat
- Their golden-brown appearance makes them visually appealing on any table setting
- Versatile enough to serve as appetizers or snacks, they adapt to any meal plan effortlessly
I still chuckle thinking about my friends’ faces when they first tasted these puffs. They were gone in seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Mashed Potatoes: Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly, but freshly made gives the best texture and flavor.
-
Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor; feel free to mix cheeses for variety.
-
Eggs: One large egg helps bind everything together while adding richness.
-
Flour: Just enough to hold the mixture together without making it heavy.
-
Green Onions: Chopped finely for a fresh burst of flavor and color.
-
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors beautifully.
-
Panko Breadcrumbs: For that delightful crunch on the outside; don’t skip this step!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all ingredients and preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined; it should be thick yet manageable. For more inspiration, check out this green beans and potatoes recipe.
Scoop and Shape: Using your hands or a scoop, form small balls with the mixture and roll them into panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. This adds that crispy texture we all love. For more inspiration, check out this crispy potato pancakes recipe.
Bake Them Perfectly: Place the cheese puffs on your prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve Hot!: Once baked, remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. They’ll be too hot to handle but oh-so-worth-it!
These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite! The combination of textures—from crispy exterior to creamy interior—creates an unforgettable experience that will have everyone coming back for more. crispy potato tacos Enjoy your cooking adventure!
You Must Know
- Mashed potato cheese puffs are not just delicious; they are a fantastic way to use leftover mashed potatoes
- Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these treats will disappear faster than you can say “cheesy goodness.” Perfect for parties or as a snack!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your leftover mashed potatoes with cheese while preheating the oven. Shape them into balls and coat in breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy finish. fried cheese balls This order saves time and ensures even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheeses based on your preference, or add herbs like chives or garlic powder for extra flavor. You can also try adding cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist that will wow your guests.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover mashed potato cheese puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness without drying them out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve maximum crispiness, ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking
- This helps create that delightful golden crust
- Additionally, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to allow proper airflow around each puff
- Lastly, don’t skip chilling them before baking; it enhances texture!
I once made these cheese puffs for a family gathering, and they were gone in minutes. My uncle even asked if I could make them every week – talk about pressure!
FAQ
Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?
Yes, fresh mashed potatoes work perfectly; just let them cool slightly first.
How do I make these puffs gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a crispy coating.
What can I serve with mashed potato cheese puffs?
These puffs pair wonderfully with sour cream or a zesty dipping sauce for added flavor.
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings (36 puffs) 1x
Description
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheddar cheese into crispy, golden bites. Perfect for appetizers or snacks, these puffs are easy to make and sure to impress at any gathering. With a delightful crunch on the outside and a soft, cheesy center, they evoke warm memories of family meals and celebrations. Get ready to savor every bite of these delicious treats!
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or leftover)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, green onions, egg, flour, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form small balls from the mixture and roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Place the puffs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 puffs (90g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
