Are you looking for a creative way to elevate your mashed potatoes? Look no further than our Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs! These fluffy, savory bites are packed with creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and aromatic chives, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, appetizer, or party snack, these potato puffs are guaranteed to impress. So, let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make these irresistible treats at home!
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
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or butter and set aside.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the Potato Puffs: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the potato mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Roll the ball in grated Parmesan cheese until evenly coated, then place it in one of the greased muffin cups. Repeat with the remaining mixture, filling each muffin cup.
- Bake the Potato Puffs: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potato puffs are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the potato puffs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve them warm as a delicious side dish or appetizer, and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Chive Substitution: If you don’t have chives on hand, you can substitute them with finely chopped green onions or parsley for a similar flavor profile.
- Cheese Variation: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Swiss, or Gouda, to customize the flavor of your potato puffs.
- Seasoning Options: You can customize the seasoning of your potato puffs by adding herbs and spices like smoked paprika, dried thyme, or onion powder to enhance the flavor.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe? A: Yes, you can definitely use leftover mashed potatoes! Just make sure they are chilled before using them in this recipe.
Q: Can I freeze these potato puffs? A: Yes, these potato puffs can be frozen after baking. Simply allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I make these potato puffs ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture and form the puffs ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake, then bake as directed when ready to serve.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of these potato puffs, you can substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the all-purpose flour. Additionally, you can use a combination of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a low-carb option.
Low-Carb Version:
To make a low-carb version, omit the all-purpose flour entirely and increase the amount of shredded cheese in the mixture. You can also use cauliflower mash instead of traditional mashed potatoes for a lower-carb alternative.
In conclusion, our Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, offering a crispy, cheesy exterior with a creamy, flavorful interior. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, appetizer, or party snack, these potato puffs are sure to be a hit with everyone. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try for a tasty and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress!
