Description

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect way to turn leftover mashed potatoes into a delicious snack or side dish. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these puffs are filled with cheesy goodness and are easy to make. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or just when you want a little something special!

Ingredients

• 2 cups of mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the mashed potatoes
Start by using leftover mashed potatoes or freshly prepared mashed potatoes. If your mashed potatoes are refrigerated, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before starting the recipe.

Step 2: Mix in the cheeses
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. These cheeses will melt into the potato mixture, adding a rich and cheesy flavor.

Step 3: Add the eggs
Crack 2 large eggs into the mashed potato mixture. The eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the puffs together as they bake and giving them a light and fluffy texture.

Step 4: Add sour cream
Add 1/4 cup of sour cream to the mixture. The sour cream will provide extra creaminess and a slight tang, balancing the richness of the cheeses and mashed potatoes.

Step 5: Season the mixture
Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. These seasonings will enhance the flavors of the ingredients without overpowering them.

Step 6: Add fresh chives
Finely chop 2 tablespoons of fresh chives and add them to the mixture. Chives bring a mild onion flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes and cheese, adding freshness to the dish.

Step 7: Add the melted butter
Pour in 1 tablespoon of melted butter and mix everything together. The butter adds richness to the puffs and ensures they bake up with a golden and crispy exterior.

Step 8: Mix well
Using a spatula, thoroughly mix the ingredients until everything is well combined. This ensures that every puff will have the perfect balance of potato, cheese, and seasoning.

Step 9: Prepare the muffin tin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a mini muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent the puffs from sticking to the tin and help them develop a nice crispy crust.

Step 10: Fill the muffin tin
Scoop the mashed potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Press down lightly on the tops to flatten them a bit for even baking.

Step 11: Bake the puffs
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potato puffs are golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure they don’t over-bake.

Step 12: Cool and serve
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the potato puffs cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling time allows the puffs to firm up slightly, making them easier to remove from the tin. Serve them hot and enjoy!

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
To elevate these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs even further, try adding some crispy bacon bits or diced ham to the potato mixture before baking. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère or gouda, for a unique flavor twist!

Conclusion:
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both comforting and fun to eat. With a crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy interior, they are the perfect side dish, snack, or appetizer for any occasion. Follow this simple recipe, and you’ll have a delicious dish that everyone will love. Happy cooking!