Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these cheesy mashed potato puffs! They’re like little bites of heaven, perfectly crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. I mean, who can resist that? They’re such a fun snack for game nights, cozy movie marathons, or even just when you need a pick-me-up in the afternoon. I stumbled upon this recipe when I was trying to use up some leftover mashed potatoes, and now it’s a go-to in my kitchen! Trust me, once you make these, you’ll want to whip up a batch every week. They’re that good!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably creamy and well-seasoned)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I love using cheddar, but feel free to mix it up!)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (adds a lovely freshness)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for that perfect crunchy coating)
- 2 eggs (to bind everything together beautifully)
- Salt to taste (don’t be shy, but taste as you go!)
- Pepper to taste (just a pinch will do, or more if you like a kick!)
How to Prepare Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Getting these cheesy mashed potato puffs ready is a breeze! Let’s dive into the steps to make this delicious snack that’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser. First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial because you want those puffs to bake up perfectly golden and crispy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. I like to use a fork to really get in there and ensure the cheese is evenly distributed.
- Once your mixture is nice and homogenous, it’s time to form the puffs! Grab a small handful of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Don’t worry about making them perfect; a little rustic charm is part of their appeal!
- Next, roll each ball in the breadcrumbs; this is where they get their crunchy exterior! Make sure they’re well-coated.
- Place the coated puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them a bit of space to breathe. Now, pop them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and irresistible.
- Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for just a minute before serving warm. You’ll want to enjoy them fresh for the best texture and flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: These cheesy mashed potato puffs come together in no time, making them perfect for when you’re in a rush or just want a tasty snack fast!
- Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, even beginner cooks can whip these up without breaking a sweat.
- Versatile: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can add a fun twist to the flavor.
- Perfect for snacks: Whether it’s game day, a party, or just cozying up at home, these puffs are the ultimate snack that everyone will love.
- Great for leftovers: If you have leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe is a delicious way to give them a second life!
Tips for Success
To ensure your cheesy mashed potato puffs turn out absolutely amazing, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips just for you!
- Use creamy mashed potatoes: The texture of your mashed potatoes is key. Aim for a creamy, well-seasoned mixture rather than dry or lumpy potatoes. If they’re too thick, just add a splash of milk or a little butter to smooth things out.
- Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to tough puffs instead of fluffy, tender bites. Keep it light and gentle!
- Watch the baking time: Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on your puffs as they bake. You want them golden brown and crispy, but not overdone. If they’re not quite there after 25 minutes, give them a few more minutes.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add in extras like cooked bacon bits, herbs, or even some spices to give your puffs a unique twist. The sky’s the limit—get creative!
- Make ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the puffs up to the point of baking and freeze them. Just roll them in breadcrumbs and place them on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a bag. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
With these tips, you’ll be set up for cheesy mashed potato puff success every time! Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to taste along the way—it’s all about that delicious journey!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for these delicious cheesy mashed potato puffs, based on a serving size of two puffs. Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 5g
These cheesy mashed potato puffs are not just tasty; they also pack a decent little punch of nutrition! Enjoy them guilt-free as a snack or appetizer, and remember, it’s all about balance. Happy snacking!
FAQ Section
Got questions about these cheesy mashed potato puffs? No worries! I’ve got some of the most common queries covered right here, so you can whip up these tasty bites with confidence.
Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought mashed potatoes work just fine. Just make sure they’re creamy and flavorful for the best results. You’ll still get that delicious cheesy goodness!
How do I store leftover puffs?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, believe me!), let them cool completely and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating them in the oven for a few minutes to get that crunch back!
Can I make these in advance?
You can definitely prep these puffs ahead of time! Just form the balls and coat them in breadcrumbs, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a bag and bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for the breadcrumbs?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use crushed cornflakes, panko, or even ground nuts for a gluten-free option. Each will give a slightly different texture but will still be delicious!
Can I add other ingredients to the mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. You can mix in cooked bacon, sautéed veggies, or different herbs and spices to tailor these puffs to your taste. Experimenting is part of the fun!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got these delicious cheesy mashed potato puffs ready to go, let’s talk about how to elevate your snack game even further! The beauty of these puffs is that they pair wonderfully with so many different dips and sides. Here are some of my favorites:
- Sour cream: A classic choice! Creamy and tangy, it complements the cheesy goodness of the puffs perfectly.
- Ranch dressing: If you love that herby flavor, ranch is an absolute winner. It adds a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the warm puffs.
- Spicy ketchup: For those who like a little heat, try mixing ketchup with a dash of hot sauce. It’s a fun twist that adds a flavorful zing!
- Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip adds a refreshing contrast and a burst of flavor that works wonders with the cheesy puffs.
- Marinara sauce: For a comforting Italian vibe, serve your puffs with warm marinara sauce for dipping. It’s like a mini cheese-filled appetizer!
These cheesy mashed potato puffs can also serve as a side dish to your favorite main courses. They’re fantastic alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or even a salad for a fun twist on a classic meal. Trust me, once you start pairing them up, you won’t want to stop experimenting!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
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Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs: 5 Steps to Pure Comfort
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy mashed potato puffs are a delicious snack made from creamy mashed potatoes combined with cheese and baked until golden.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheese, green onions, eggs, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small balls.
- Roll each ball in breadcrumbs.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for a quicker prep.
- Experiment with different cheese types.
- These puffs can be frozen before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 puffs
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: cheesy mashed potato puffs