Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delicious twist on classic mashed potatoes, combining cheesy goodness and fluffy texture with a crispy Parmesan coating. These puffs are ideal for parties, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving a savory snack that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

The chilled mashed potatoes are mixed with cheddar cheese, chives, and a hint of garlic, then bound together with an egg and a touch of flour to create a cohesive mixture. Forming them into small, bite-sized portions and rolling them in Parmesan gives each puff a delightful crunch. Baked at high heat, they turn golden and crisp around the edges, while staying creamy and soft inside.

Once baked, let them cool slightly in the pan to help them hold their shape, and then serve them warm. These puffs are perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, and they pair beautifully with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. They’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike, bringing together all the comforting flavors of mashed potatoes in a fun, bite-sized treat!

Why You’ll Love It:

Kid-Friendly: Kids will love these cheesy, bite-sized potato puffs that are as fun to eat as they are tasty!
Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and give them a fresh, crispy upgrade.
Easy to Make: Just mix, roll, and bake—no need for frying, and cleanup is minimal.
Versatile: Great as a party appetizer, a cozy side dish, or even a game-day snack, these puffs are as versatile as they are delicious.

Key Ingredients:

Mashed Potatoes: Cold, leftover mashed potatoes work best as they’re firmer and help the puffs keep their shape. If you’re making fresh mashed potatoes for this recipe, chill them in the fridge before using.
Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness of cheddar adds a melty, gooey texture and flavor. Feel free to use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or Swiss for extra cheesy goodness.
Egg: Essential for binding the ingredients together so that each puff holds its shape.
Chives: Fresh chives bring a mild onion flavor and a pop of color. Green onions or parsley can also be used.
All-Purpose Flour: Adds structure to the mixture, so the puffs hold up well in the oven. If you need a gluten-free option, try almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor that complements the cheeses perfectly. You can substitute with minced fresh garlic if preferred.
Parmesan Cheese: Rolling the potato balls in Parmesan before baking creates a golden, crispy coating that adds a delicious crunch.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

How to Make Cheesy Potato Puffs

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the puffs bake to golden brown perfection.
Grease the Muffin Pan: Generously grease a mini muffin pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure the puffs come out easily.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Combine the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, mix the chilled mashed potatoes with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Crack the egg into the bowl and stir thoroughly until everything is evenly mixed. The egg acts as a binder to help the puffs hold together during baking.

Step 3: Form the Puffs

Shape the Potato Balls: Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to form the potato mixture into 1-inch balls.
Roll in Parmesan: Roll each ball in grated Parmesan cheese for a crispy, flavorful coating. Place each ball into a cup of the greased muffin pan, pressing gently to shape them into the mold. The Parmesan coating creates a golden, crunchy exterior.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the Puffs: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges of the puffs turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them toward the end to prevent overcooking.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Cool Briefly: Let the puffs cool in the pan for a few minutes to set, making them easier to remove.
Serve Warm: Serve the puffs warm for the best flavor and texture. They’re perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or hearty snack! Enjoy their cheesy, crispy goodness.

Serving Suggestions:

Dipping Sauces: Serve with sour cream, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce for a fun appetizer or snack.
Perfect Pairing: These puffs are excellent alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or soups.
Garnishes: Sprinkle extra chives or a pinch of smoked paprika on top for added flavor and visual appeal.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 5-8 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Freezing: These potato puffs freeze well! After baking and cooling, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the potato mixture and roll into balls, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This can be a real time-saver if you’re prepping for a party or event.

Variations:

Bacon Cheddar Puffs: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the potato mixture for an extra savory twist that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Loaded Potato Puffs: Mix in a few spoonfuls of sour cream and some finely chopped green onions for a loaded baked potato flavor.
Spicy Cheddar Puffs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.
Garlic Herb Puffs: For a more aromatic flavor, add ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning along with the garlic powder.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

Conclusion:

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a creative, delicious way to turn mashed potatoes into something truly special. Perfect for gatherings, cozy family dinners, or just a snack to treat yourself, these puffs are sure to become a favorite. Their golden, crispy exterior and fluffy, cheesy interior are an unbeatable combination. Enjoy each bite, and don’t be surprised if they disappear in minutes!