Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Introduction

Who can resist the allure of Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs? Certainly not me, and I’m betting you can’t either. These little bites of heaven combine the creamy comfort of mashed potatoes with a delightful cheesy gooeyness, all wrapped up in a crisp, golden exterior that’s simply to die for. Perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a chic party appetizer, these puffs will steal the show and leave your guests craving for more. Let’s dive right in and discover the magic behind creating these irresistible delights!

Ingredients:

2 cups mashed potatoes, chilled
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
tablespoons(2) grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs, beaten
tablespoons(2)chopped chives or green onions
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs, for coating
Cooking spray or oil, for greasing

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or oil.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Shape the potato mixture into small balls, roll them in breadcrumbs to coat evenly, and place each one in a prepared muffin tin slot.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Let them cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin. Serve warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 24 puffs

Notes and Tips

Creating the perfect Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs is an art that’s easily achievable with a few insider tips and tricks. Here’s a treasure trove of advice to help you master this recipe:

1. The Perfect Potato Base: For the creamiest texture, opt for high-starch potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They mash well and give your puffs that desired fluffy interior.
2. Cheese Matters: While cheddar and mozzarella are our go-tos for this recipe, don’t shy away from experimenting with other types. Gouda, for instance, adds a lovely smoky flavor, and Parmesan can give a nice salty bite.
3. Seasoning Is Key: Beyond salt and pepper, consider the world of spices your playground. A pinch of nutmeg can add a depth of flavor, while a sprinkle of cayenne can lend a spicy kick.
4. Mixing Method: To avoid a dense puff, mix your ingredients gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture once baked.
5. Sizing It Right: Using a cookie scoop or a spoon can help you create uniformly sized puffs. This ensures they all cook evenly and finish at the same time.
6. Testing for Doneness: They’re done when they turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If they’re browning too quickly, cover them with foil.
7. Serving Hot: These puffs are best served warm, straight out of the oven. If you need to reheat them, pop them back in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to restore their crispy exterior.

By keeping these pointers in mind, you’re well on your way to achieving Cheesy Mashed Potato Puff perfection.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

While indulgent at first glance, Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs can be a part of a balanced diet, offering more than just tantalizing tastes:

• Potatoes: A source of potassium, which is crucial for blood pressure management, and vitamin C, important for immune function. They also provide dietary fiber for digestive health.
• Cheese: Provides calcium for bone health and proteins for muscle repair and growth. Opting for low-fat cheese can reduce calorie intake without sacrificing flavor.
• Eggs: Eggs are a great source of high-quality protein and contain vitamins D and B12, important for bone health and energy metabolism, respectively.
• Flour: While primarily used for structure in this recipe, flour also contributes a small amount of selenium, a nutrient important for thyroid health.

For a healthier twist, consider incorporating whole wheat flour for added fiber and using reduced-fat cheese. Adding finely chopped vegetables like spinach or kale can boost the vitamin, mineral, and fiber content.

Portion control is key to enjoying these puffs as part of a health-conscious diet. Pairing them with a leafy green salad or steamed vegetables can make for a more balanced meal.

FAQs

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes? A: Yes, in a pinch, instant mashed potatoes can work, but the texture and flavor might differ from using fresh potatoes.

Q: Are Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs freezable? A: Absolutely! Freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: Definitely. Use dairy-free cheese and a milk alternative for the mashed potatoes.

Q: Is it possible to add fillings? A: Yes, the center of each puff can be filled with a small cube of cheese, a piece of cooked bacon, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra surprise.

---

Helpful Reviews

Our community has spoken, and they love these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs. Here’s what they’re saying:

• “Tried this with a mix of Parmesan and smoked Gouda. The flavor was out of this world! A new favorite for sure.”
• “I was a bit skeptical about adding nutmeg, but it really made a difference. It’s those subtle flavors that elevate a dish.”
• “I added chopped broccoli to the mix for a bit of green, and it turned out fantastic. Even my kids loved it!”
• “These freeze beautifully! I made a double batch, and having them on hand for a quick side or snack has been a game-changer.”

Print