Nora
These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are golden, cheesy, and delightfully crisp on the outside with a creamy mashed potato center. They make a brilliant appetizer, party snack, or even a side dish. Each bite bursts with comfort and cheesiness, making them an instant crowd favorite.
They come together with leftover mashed potatoes and a few pantry staples. Think of them as bite-sized mashed potato casseroles baked into irresistibly crispy little mounds. These are not just a treat for cheese lovers but a smart way to elevate simple ingredients into something special.
Ingredients for this Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any sharp cheese)
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or parsley
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing muffin tin)
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, eggs, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, chopped herbs, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed and fluffy.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the mixture evenly into each cup of the prepared mini muffin tin. Fill each cavity to the top and slightly mound for that golden crown effect.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges are crisp. Allow to cool slightly in the pan before carefully removing with a spoon.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Serve the puffs warm, optionally garnished with more chopped herbs or a side of sour cream for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep mashed potato puffs from sticking to the pan?
Use a well-greased non-stick mini muffin tin or line it with silicone liners. Let the puffs cool a few minutes before removing.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, just make sure they’re thick and not too runny. Let them cool completely before mixing in other ingredients.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and bake them a day in advance, then reheat in the oven before serving.
What kind of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix in mozzarella, Gruyère, or even pepper jack for a spicy version.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all your ingredients, especially the cheese and sour cream, are certified gluten-free.
Do I need to peel the potatoes before mashing?
Peeling is optional. For a smoother texture, peel them. If you like a rustic bite, leave the skins on.
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20-24 mini puffs
Description
Craving something crispy, cheesy, and bite-sized? These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the answer. They combine the comfort of mashed potatoes with the irresistible pull of golden cheese crusts. Whether you’re hosting brunch, need a quick appetizer, or want easy dinner ideas to stretch leftovers into something fun, these puffs deliver. It’s the kind of food idea that’s equally at home on a party platter or beside a casual family meal. Perfectly portable, freezer-friendly, and packed with flavor, they’re a must-add to your quick snack or easy recipe list.
Ingredients
2 cups cold mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any sharp cheese)
2 eggs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons chopped chives or parsley
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing muffin tin)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
- In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheddar, eggs, Parmesan, sour cream, herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the mixture into the muffin cups, mounding each slightly.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crisp on top.
- Cool slightly before removing; serve warm with optional sour cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer