Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are warm, fluffy bites filled with creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese. They’re perfect for snacking or as a side dish!
Honestly, who can resist these little clouds of joy? I love them fresh out of the oven, with a crispy outside and cheesy goodness inside. So good yet so easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: Use smooth and well-seasoned mashed potatoes for the best flavor. If you have leftover mashed potatoes, they work perfectly here. For a creamy texture, you can also use store-bought mashed potatoes.
Cheddar Cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but you can mix it with mozzarella for extra stretchiness. If you’re lactose intolerant, consider a dairy-free cheese substitute that melts well.
Eggs: The eggs help bind the mixture. If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) for a similar binding effect.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but you can use whole wheat flour for added nutrition. If gluten is a concern, try a gluten-free flour blend to keep the texture similar.
Herbs: Green onions or chives add brightness. If you don’t have them, parsley or even dill can work. Fresh herbs are great for garnish too!
How Can I Make Sure the Puffs Are Perfectly Baked?
Getting the baking right is key to delicious cheese puffs. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. Don’t skip this step!
- Grease your muffin tin well. This prevents sticking and makes removal easier.
- Fill each muffin cup about 3/4 full. This leaves room for rising and helps achieve that golden top.
- Check for doneness by looking for a golden brown color. Also, a toothpick inserted should come out clean.
- Let them cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan. This helps them set and reduces the chance of breaking apart.
By following these tips, your cheese puffs will turn out perfectly golden and delicious every time! Enjoy!
How to Make Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (smooth and well-seasoned)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheeses)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 green onions or chives, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the muffin tin)
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to bake, so in total, you’ll spend about 35 minutes to enjoy these tasty cheese puffs. Perfect for a quick snack or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Muffin Tin:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a nice, even bake. While it’s heating, take your muffin tin and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to keep those puffs from sticking.
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your smooth and well-seasoned mashed potatoes with the shredded cheddar cheese. If you’re feeling fancy and want that extra flavor, add the grated Parmesan cheese too!
3. Combine Everything Together:
Now, it’s time to add the rest! Crack in the two eggs, sprinkle in the flour, and toss in the chopped green onions or chives. Then, add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly with a spoon until it’s well combined and forms a slightly thick mixture. It should hold together nicely!
4. Spoon Into Muffin Tin:
Using a spoon, carefully fill each muffin tin cup about 3/4 full with the mixture. This will give them enough room to rise as they bake. Don’t worry about making them perfect; just get them in there!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they’re ready when the tops are golden brown and they look puffy! A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
6. Cool and Remove:
Once baked, take the muffin tin out of the oven and let the cheese puffs cool for a few minutes. This step is essential; it helps them firm up a bit, so they won’t fall apart when you take them out!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some extra chopped chives or fresh herbs on top for a lovely finishing touch. These cheese puffs can be enjoyed warm as a delicious appetizer, side dish, or snack. Yum!
Enjoy your delicious Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly, just ensure they’re well-seasoned and smooth. If they’re a bit thick, you can loosen them with a splash of milk before mixing them in.
What Cheese Can I Substitute?
You can substitute cheddar with any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a bit of heat. A blend of your favorite cheeses is also a great option!
Can I Make These Cheese Puffs Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that your cheese and any additional ingredients are also gluten-free.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for the best texture!
