Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these cheesy mashed potato puffs! They’re the ultimate comfort food, perfectly crispy on the outside and warm and gooey on the inside. I remember the first time I tried them at a family gathering; I was instantly hooked! Everyone was raving about these little bites of heaven, and I couldn’t resist sneaking a few more than I should have. They make for a fantastic snack or side dish, and trust me, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “cheesy mashed potato puffs!” You’re going to love making and sharing these with your friends and family!
Ingredients
- 2 cups creamy mashed potatoes (leftovers work great!)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to mix it up!)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for a fresh kick!)
- Oil for frying (enough to cover the bottom of your pan)
How to Prepare Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Alright, let’s dive into making these cheesy mashed potato puffs! It’s super easy, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create these little nuggets of joy. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious snack in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures they’ll bake perfectly once they’re ready.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine your creamy mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, eggs, salt, pepper, and chopped green onions. Give it a good mix until everything is well incorporated. It should be a nice, thick mixture that holds together!
- Form the puffs: Now, it’s time to get your hands a little messy! Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about the size of a golf ball. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; they’ll still taste amazing!
- Heat the oil: In a frying pan, pour enough oil to cover the bottom and heat it over medium heat. You want it hot enough that the puffs will sizzle when they hit the pan, but not so hot that they burn. A good test is to drop a tiny bit of the mixture in; if it sizzles, you’re ready!
- Fry until golden: Carefully place a few of the potato balls in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re beautifully golden brown. Wow, the smell will be incredible!
- Bake for extra crispiness: Once they’re golden, transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the oven for about 10 minutes. This step is key to getting that perfect crispy texture!
- Serve and enjoy: After baking, take them out and let them cool for a minute. Serve these cheesy puffs hot, and I guarantee they’ll be gone in a flash!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: You’ll be amazed at how fast these cheesy mashed potato puffs come together—perfect for when you need a snack in a hurry!
- Simple Cooking Method: With just a quick fry followed by a bake, even beginner cooks can whip these up with confidence.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy potatoes and gooey cheese is absolutely irresistible—trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds!
- Versatile Delight: Whether as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these puffs can fit into any meal or gathering and will impress your guests.
- Leftover Magic: They’re a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, turning what might be a boring dish into an exciting treat!
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add spices to make them truly your own!
Tips for Success
Let’s make sure your cheesy mashed potato puffs turn out perfectly every time! Here are some of my favorite tips that I’ve picked up along the way:
- Use Cold Mashed Potatoes: Cold mashed potatoes work best for shaping the puffs. If you’ve got leftovers in the fridge, use those—just make sure they’re not too runny.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the light, airy puffs we’re going for!
- Check Oil Temperature: Before frying, make sure the oil is hot enough. If it’s too cool, the puffs will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they’ll burn before cooking through. A quick test is dropping a small piece of the mixture in—if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
- Fry in Batches: Avoid crowding the pan while frying. Give each puff enough space to cook evenly and achieve that gorgeous golden color. If you overcrowd, they’ll steam instead of fry!
- Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to mix it up! Try mozzarella for a gooey stretch or even a bit of feta for a tangy twist. The cheese can completely change the flavor profile!
- Add Spices: Feeling adventurous? Spice things up by adding garlic powder, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne for a little heat. The flavor possibilities are endless!
- Keep Them Warm: If you’re making these for a gathering, keep the cooked puffs warm in a low oven until it’s time to serve. They’ll stay crispy and delicious!
With these tips, you’ll be a pro at making cheesy mashed potato puffs in no time! Trust me, everyone will be asking for your secret!
Variations
Now, let’s have some fun mixing things up with these cheesy mashed potato puffs! The basic recipe is fantastic on its own, but there are so many ways to tailor it to your taste buds. Here are some of my favorite variations you might want to try:
- Cheese Lovers: Swap out cheddar for a blend of your favorites! Mozzarella adds a delightful stretch, while gouda brings a smoky flavor. You could even mix in some blue cheese for a bold twist!
- Herb Infusion: Add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives to the mixture for a burst of freshness. It elevates the flavor and makes them look even more appetizing!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You could even try adding a bit of sriracha to the mashed potatoes for a fiery zing!
- Veggie Boost: Sneak in some finely chopped veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Not only will this add color, but it’ll also give you an extra nutritional boost!
- Sweet Potato Surprise: For a unique twist, substitute half of the mashed potatoes with sweet potatoes. They’ll add a lovely sweetness and vibrant color to your puffs!
- Italian Style: Add Italian seasoning, like oregano and basil, and serve with marinara sauce for dipping. It’s like a fun twist on pizza!
- Breakfast Puffs: Mix in some crumbled cooked bacon or sausage and a sprinkle of cheese for a breakfast version that’s perfect for brunch gatherings!
These variations can help you create a whole new experience with each batch of cheesy mashed potato puffs. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own personal favorite combo! Enjoy the delicious journey!
Nutritional Information
When you’re enjoying these cheesy mashed potato puffs, it’s nice to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving (which is about one puff). Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 4g
So, as you whip up these delightful treats, keep this info in mind! They’re a satisfying snack that won’t break the bank on calories, and with all that cheesy goodness, you can enjoy every bite without a hint of guilt. Happy munching!
FAQ Section
Got questions about these cheesy mashed potato puffs? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my answers to help you out:
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any puffs left (which is a big “if” in my house!), just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get them nice and crispy again!
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Instant mashed potatoes can be a convenient option if you’re short on time. Just make sure to prepare them according to the package instructions and let them cool before mixing in the other ingredients. They’ll still taste delicious!
What dips pair well with cheesy mashed potato puffs?
Oh, the dipping possibilities are endless! I love serving them with a zesty ranch dressing, creamy sour cream, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. You could also whip up a simple garlic aioli or a tangy marinara sauce for that Italian vibe. Yum!
Can I freeze cheesy mashed potato puffs?
Yes, you can! Just freeze the cooked puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container once they’re frozen solid. They should keep well for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
What can I do if the mixture is too wet?
If you find your mixture is a bit too wet to form into balls, don’t panic! Just sprinkle in a little extra flour, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach a consistency that holds together well. It’s all about finding that perfect balance!
How can I make these puffs spicier?
Want to kick up the heat? Try adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix. You could even mix in some spicy cheese like pepper jack for that extra zing!
Got more questions? Just drop me a note, and I’d be happy to help. Enjoy making these cheesy mashed potato puffs!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got these delicious cheesy mashed potato puffs ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve them with to really elevate your meal! These puffs are incredibly versatile and can pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a perfect contrast to the rich, cheesy puffs. The freshness balances out the flavors beautifully!
- Grilled Vegetables: Serve them alongside some charred grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a colorful and healthy plate.
- Roast Chicken: These puffs also make a fantastic side to a juicy roast chicken. The combination of flavors will have everyone coming back for more!
- Soup: Pair your cheesy puffs with a warm bowl of tomato soup or a hearty vegetable chowder. The puffs are perfect for dipping and soaking up all that deliciousness!
- Dipping Sauces: Don’t forget to set out a variety of dips! Ranch, garlic aioli, or even a spicy ketchup can add a fun twist and make each bite exciting.
- Brunch Spread: If you’re serving these at brunch, they go wonderfully with eggs any style, crispy bacon, or even a savory quiche!
With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a delightful meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the delicious mingling of flavors, and don’t be surprised when these cheesy mashed potato puffs steal the show!
Print
Cheesy mashed potato puffs: 7 Irresistible Comfort Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy mashed potato puffs are a delightful snack or side dish made with creamy mashed potatoes and cheese, baked until golden.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheese, flour, eggs, salt, pepper, and green onions.
- Form small balls from the mixture.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry the potato balls until golden brown on all sides.
- Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for quick preparation.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for variety.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking and frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 puff
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: cheesy mashed potato puffs
