Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs – A Comforting, Crispy Delight
Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, but sometimes, you want to take them up a notch. These cheesy mashed potato puffs are the perfect way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into an irresistible, crispy, golden-brown delight. With a light, airy interior and a beautifully melted cheesy topping, they are guaranteed to become a favorite side dish or snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These puffs are everything you love about mashed potatoes but in a crispy, portable form. They’re easy to make, require simple ingredients, and can be customized to your taste. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or game-day snack, they deliver the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups mashed potatoes, room temperature
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- ¼ cup fresh chives, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
- Mix Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together mashed potatoes, beaten eggs, ¾ cup shredded cheese, and chives. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fill Muffin Tin – Use a spoon or scoop to evenly distribute the mixture into the mini muffin tin, filling each cup nearly to the top.
- Add Cheese Topping – Sprinkle the remaining cheese over each puff for extra crispiness.
- Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Cool and Serve – Let cool for 5 minutes before gently removing from the tin. Serve warm with sour cream or your favorite dip.
Variations
- Add crispy bacon bits or diced ham for a meaty twist.
- Use different cheese varieties like cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack for extra depth of flavor.
- Mix in sautéed onions, garlic, or spinach for a veggie boost.
- Top with everything bagel seasoning or ranch seasoning for a unique touch.
Storage and Reheating
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes until crispy again.
- Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat directly from frozen.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these cheesy mashed potato puffs with grilled meats, soups, or as a fun appetizer with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli.