Description
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delicious and comforting snack made from chilled mashed potatoes mixed with cheddar cheese, garlic, and herbs, then shaped into bite-sized balls coated in Parmesan cheese and baked until golden and crispy. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, these puffs are easy to make and customizable with various cheese and herb options.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups chilled mashed potatoes
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped chives (to taste)
- Flour (as needed, approximately 1/4 to 1/2 cup)
- Garlic powder (to taste, about 1/2 teaspoon)
- Salt (to taste, approximately 1/2 teaspoon)
- Pepper (to taste, approximately 1/4 teaspoon)
Coating
- Parmesan cheese (for coating, about 1/2 cup)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated, ensuring it holds together for shaping.
- Shape Puffs: Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands for uniformity, pressing gently to compact each ball to hold its shape during baking.
- Coat with Parmesan: Roll each potato ball in Parmesan cheese to fully coat the outside, which will add flavor and help create a crispy exterior.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a hot environment for crisping the puffs evenly.
- Bake: Arrange the coated puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve Warm: Serve the Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs immediately while warm and crispy. They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or spicy sauces to add flavor.
Notes
- Use well-chilled mashed potatoes to help the mixture hold its shape better when forming the puffs.
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for unique flavor variations.
- Add cooked bacon bits or extra herbs like parsley or thyme for enhanced taste.
- Include finely chopped vegetables like spinach or broccoli in the mixture to add nutrients and color.
- Store leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.
- You can freeze the puffs before baking; thaw in the refrigerator before baking as usual.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cheesy mashed potato puffs, baked potato snacks, cheesy potato balls, easy party appetizers, potato cheese bites
