Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

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Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect way to use leftover mashed potatoes, transforming them into golden, crispy bites filled with gooey cheese. These puffs are a fantastic side dish or snack for any occasion, combining the creamy comfort of mashed potatoes with a light, airy texture.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftovers or freshly made)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
  2. Mix the Ingredients:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten egg, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, chopped chives, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  3. Fill the Muffin Tin:
    Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the greased mini muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ of the way.
  4. Bake the Potato Puffs:
    Bake the puffs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on top.
  5. Cool and Serve:
    Remove from the oven and let the puffs cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a serving plate. Garnish with extra chives or parsley if desired.

Additional Tips for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:

  1. Serving Suggestions:
    Serve these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs as a side dish with grilled meats, or enjoy them as a snack with a dollop of sour cream or ketchup on the side.
  2. Storage Instructions:
    Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to crisp them back up.
  3. Freezing Tip:
    You can freeze the unbaked puffs in the muffin tin. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, and bake them directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

FAQs About Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:

  1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
    Yes, instant mashed potatoes can be used, but the texture may differ slightly compared to fresh mashed potatoes.
  2. Can I make these without cheese?
    Yes, you can omit the cheese if you prefer, but the puffs won’t have the same richness and flavor. Consider adding other seasonings or herbs to compensate.
  3. How do I make the puffs crispier?
    For extra crispiness, you can broil the puffs for the last 2 minutes of baking, but keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
  4. What other cheeses can I use?
    You can experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or pepper jack for a twist in flavor.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delicious way to reinvent mashed potatoes into crispy, cheesy bites. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these puffs are sure to become a family favorite!

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