Who doesn’t love the comforting embrace of mashed potatoes? It’s like a warm hug on a plate. Now, take that cozy feeling, add cheese (because cheese makes everything better, right?), and give it a delightful twist to create something wonderfully whimsical—Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs! This dish spins a classic side into fun, individual puffs that are perfect for getting creative in the kitchen, especially when you’re looking to impress guests or just want to treat yourself. Originating as a playful take on traditional potato dishes, these puffs combine the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes with the gooey joy of melted cheese, all wrapped up in a golden crust that’s crispy on the outside and oh-so dreamy on the inside.
Now, if you’re thinking about what to serve with these little golden treasures, you’re in luck because they’re incredibly versatile. A crisp garden salad drizzled with your favorite dressing can add a fresh balance to the meal. Or, if you’re in the mood for some extra coziness, pair them with a warm bowl of roasted tomato soup. For an extra treat, serve alongside a juicy grilled steak or roast chicken to round out a heartier meal.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Ingredients
– 3 cups chilled mashed potatoes
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped chives
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for rolling
– Cooking spray or butter for greasing
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and grease a mini muffin pan with cooking spray or butter.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the chilled mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar, chives, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in grated Parmesan cheese to coat.
4. Place the coated potato balls into the cavities of the prepared muffin pan, gently pressing down to form a puff shape.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
6. Let them cool for a few minutes before removing them from the pan. Serve warm and enjoy watching them disappear!
Variations & Tips
– Feel free to mix in other ingredients for an added twist—think cooked and crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños for a kick, or swap out cheddar for your favorite cheese blend.
– If you’re short on time, you can use instant mashed potatoes as a quick substitute. Just be sure to let the mixture cool to room temp before handling.
– These puffs freeze beautifully. Let them cool completely, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the oven until they’re warm and crisp.
– For a lighter version, try using low-fat cheese and swapping half the potatoes for mashed cauliflower. It’s just as delicious with a few fewer calories.
Remember, the best part about cooking is making it your own, so don’t be afraid to play with your food! These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are just the beginning of your culinary adventure.