Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These mashed potato cheese puffs offer the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. The savory flavor of cheddar cheese combined with the rich mashed potatoes makes each bite irresistible. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also make a fantastic appetizer or snack for any gathering. The golden breadcrumb coating adds a satisfying crunch, and the flavor profile, enhanced by garlic powder and black pepper, is simple yet flavorful. They're also great for using up leftover mashed potatoes in a deliciously new way!

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.

3. Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized puffs using your hands or a scoop.

4. Roll each puff in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

5. Place the coated puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

6. Let the puffs cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: About 12 servings (1 puff per serving)

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Options: Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, gouda, or even parmesan for a different flavor.

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.

• Herbs: Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme for extra flavor.

• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoon water) to make these puffs vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the puffs on a baking sheet and heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a toaster oven for a quick option.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?

Yes, you can use freshly made mashed potatoes in this recipe if you don’t have leftovers on hand.

2. Can I freeze these mashed potato cheese puffs?

Yes, you can freeze the puffs before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

Cheddar cheese is ideal for its sharp flavor and meltability, but you can also use mozzarella, gouda, or a combination of your favorites.

4. Can I make these puffs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the puffs in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You can also freeze them before baking, as mentioned above.

5. Can I fry these puffs instead of baking them?

Yes, you can fry them in oil for a crispier texture. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the puffs until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

6. How do I prevent the puffs from falling apart while baking?

Ensure the mashed potatoes are firm enough to hold together and avoid overmixing the ingredients. If needed, you can add a bit more flour to help bind the mixture.

7. Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in this recipe.

8. How can I make these puffs spicier?

Add some hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick.

9. What’s the best dipping sauce for these puffs?

These puffs pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, including ranch, sour cream, honey mustard, or even a spicy ketchup.

10. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! If you’re making these for a larger group, just double the ingredients, and make sure you have enough space on your baking sheet for all the puffs.

Conclusion

Mashed potato cheese puffs are the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion. With a crunchy exterior and creamy, cheesy interior, they’re both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a cozy treat, these puffs will undoubtedly become a favorite. Customize them with different cheeses, herbs, or spices, and enjoy this simple yet delicious recipe!