Description
These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and easy way to transform cold mashed potatoes into crispy, cheesy bites. Perfect as appetizers or snacks, they’re baked to golden perfection with sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and fresh chives for a flavorful treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Greasing
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking the cheese puffs to a crispy finish.
- Prepare Muffin Pan: Generously grease a mini muffin pan using non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent the puffs from sticking and allow easy removal after baking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, beaten egg, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped chives, garlic powder if using, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, taking care not to overwork the mixture to keep the puffs light.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the mixture evenly into each muffin cup, filling about three-quarters full to allow room for rising and browning.
- Bake: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on top.
- Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and let the cheese puffs cool in the tin for about 5 minutes to firm up and make removal easier.
- Serve: Gently take the puffs out of the muffin pan and serve them warm for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can customize the cheese used in the recipe; Monterey Jack or mozzarella also work well.
- For a crispy bottom, use a metal mini muffin pan instead of silicone.
- Leftover mashed potatoes must be cold for best results to hold shape.
- Add cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños for extra flavor variations.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mashed potato cheese puffs, leftover mashed potatoes recipe, cheesy potato bites, baked potato puffs, easy appetizer, party snacks
