Introduction:
Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful and savory appetizer or side dish made from creamy mashed potatoes, seasoned to perfection, and then baked into golden, crispy puffs.
These little bites are ideal for using up leftover mashed potatoes and are loved by both kids and adults. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, making them the perfect comfort food to complement any meal or serve as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
3 cups mashed potatoes (preferably cold or leftover)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 large egg
2 tbsp finely chopped green onions or chives
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
1 tbsp melted butter (for greasing or brushing)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.
Prepare the mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, egg, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until smooth and well-combined.
Shape the puffs: Take small portions of the mashed potato mixture and roll them into small balls or scoop them with a spoon. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat lightly.
Bake the puffs: Place the coated potato balls on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly brush the tops of the puffs with melted butter. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve: Remove from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce (like ketchup, ranch, or aioli) and enjoy!
Description:
These Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect blend of comfort and flavor. With a crispy golden exterior, they give way to a creamy, cheesy mashed potato center that’s packed with flavor. The addition of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses creates a rich taste, while the optional sour cream makes them extra fluffy. This recipe is incredibly versatile and works well as a side dish, snack, or party appetizer. Whether made from scratch or using leftover mashed potatoes, these puffs are guaranteed to be a hit!
Tips:
Leftover Mashed Potatoes: This is an ideal recipe to use up leftover mashed potatoes. If you have extra mashed potatoes from a previous meal, they work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure they are cold to help the puffs hold their shape.
Breadcrumbs: You can use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crunchy texture, or regular breadcrumbs for a softer bite.
Spices and Herbs: Feel free to add additional spices like paprika, cayenne, or dried herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for more flavor.
Make-ahead: You can form the puffs in advance and store them in the fridge for a few hours or even freeze them. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
Dipping sauces: Serve with various dipping sauces, such as sour cream, ketchup, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli, to enhance the flavor.
Variations:
Bacon Mashed Potato Puffs: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the mashed potato mixture for an extra smoky flavor.
Vegetable Mashed Potato Puffs: Incorporate finely chopped cooked vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or corn for a colorful and nutritious twist.
Spicy Mashed Potato Puffs: Add finely chopped jalapeños or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Herbed Mashed Potato Puffs: Use fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil instead of green onions to create a fragrant and flavorful puff.
Corrections:
If your mashed potatoes are too soft and runny, add a little more breadcrumbs or flour to the mixture to help it hold its shape while baking.
If the puffs are not crisping up, try increasing the oven temperature slightly or broil them for the last 2-3 minutes to get a golden, crispy texture.
Enjoy:
Serve these Mashed Potato Puffs as a snack, side dish, or appetizer at your next family gathering or party. They are guaranteed to disappear quickly, and their crispy, cheesy goodness will have everyone asking for the recipe!