The Fluffiest Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe Ever

Crafting delectable cheesy mashed potato puffs brings pure comfort to your kitchen adventure.

Soft potato clouds dance with melted cheese, creating irresistible golden bites.

Crispy edges promise a delightful crunch that melts in your mouth.

Simple ingredients combine to elevate this classic side dish into something magical.

Each puff carries warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of grandma’s secret recipes.

Fluffy interiors packed with sharp cheddar will make everyone at the table smile.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of these delightful potato treasures.

Why Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Are Irresistible

• Rescue Leftovers: Transform boring mashed potatoes into crispy, cheesy bites that breathe new life into yesterday's side dish.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Portable, bite-sized puffs perfect for parties, game nights, or potlucks that will have everyone reaching for more.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: Minimal prep and simple ingredients create a delightful snack that looks and tastes like you spent hours cooking.
• Customizable Flavor Bomb: Easily swap ingredients like adding different cheeses, herbs, or meats to match your taste preferences and pantry contents.

Ingredients to Make Cheesy Potato Puffs

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy foundation that gives the puffs their soft, comforting texture.
• Eggs: Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients together.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth mixture.
• Shredded Cheese: Brings rich, melty flavor and extra creaminess to the puffs.

• Flour: Helps to create a light and airy texture for the puffs.
• Baking Powder: Enables the puffs to rise and become fluffy.
• Salt, Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Adds depth and savory notes to the puffs.

• Green Onions: Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Crumbled Bacon: Adds a smoky, crispy element to the puffs.

• Sour Cream, Ranch Dressing, Ketchup: Offers delicious dipping options for the puffs.
• Butter, Non-Stick Spray: Used for greasing the muffin tin to prevent sticking.

How to Bake Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Step 1: Fire Up The Oven

Set your oven to a toasty 375F (190C). Grab a mini muffin tin and give it a generous coating of butter or non-stick spray to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create Potato Magic

• Mashed potatoes
• Shredded cheese
• Flour
• Baking powder
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Stir everything until the mixture looks smooth and well-acquainted.

Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters

• Chopped green onions
• Crumbled bacon (optional but totally recommended)

Step 4: Fill The Tin

Carefully spoon the potato mixture into each muffin cup, filling them about three-quarters full. Don’t overfill or you’ll create a messy potato explosion!

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Slide the tin into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for a gorgeous golden-brown color with crispy edges that scream “eat me!”

Step 6: Cool And Serve

Let these potato clouds rest for 5 minutes. Gently remove them from the tin and serve immediately.

Dunk them in sour cream, ranch dressing, or ketchup for extra deliciousness.

Notes for Perfectly Crispy Potato Puffs

• Use cold, leftover mashed potatoes for firmer, less soggy puffs that hold their shape perfectly.
• Choose sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses to enhance the rich, tangy taste of your potato puffs.
• Ensure thorough greasing of the mini muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray for easy removal and clean serving.
• Experiment with different herbs like chives, add diced jalapeños for heat, or swap bacon for vegetarian alternatives like crispy mushrooms.
• Check puffs at 20 minutes; golden edges and firm centers indicate they're ready to be enjoyed immediately.

Fun Variations on Mashed Potato Puffs

• Vegetarian Potato Puffs: Replace bacon with roasted vegetable bits like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a meat-free version. Perfect for plant-based diners seeking protein-packed alternatives.
• Gluten-Free Potato Clouds: Swap regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend to accommodate celiac or wheat-sensitive individuals. Maintain same delicious texture and flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Potato Bites: Incorporate feta cheese, chopped spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Greek-inspired transformation. Enhance with oregano and fresh herbs for added Mediterranean flair.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Puffs: Substitute mashed potatoes with riced cauliflower for a lighter, lower-carbohydrate option. Add extra cheese to boost flavor and maintain creamy consistency.

What Goes Well with Potato Puffs

Choose a hoppy IPA or crisp wheat beer to cut through the rich, cheesy potato puffs and complement their savory bacon notes.

Whip up a tangy garlic aioli or herbed sour cream to enhance the puffs’ crispy exterior and add an extra layer of flavor complexity.

Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the heaviness of the potato puffs and provide a refreshing contrast.

Select a dry Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cleanse the palate and highlight the subtle green onion and cheese undertones.

How to Keep Mashed Potato Puffs Fresh

• Store cooled potato puffs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual puffs tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month for best quality and taste.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Spread frozen or refrigerated puffs on a baking sheet, bake for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy edges return.
• Warm refrigerated puffs for 30-45 seconds on medium power. Check temperature and add 10-15 seconds if needed, being careful not to overcook.

FAQs

• Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes. Just prepare them according to package instructions and let them cool before mixing with other ingredients.

• Are these potato puffs gluten-free?

No, the recipe contains flour. To make them gluten-free, substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

• Can I make these potato puffs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate. Just fill the muffin tin and bake when ready to serve. They also reheat well in the oven.

• What can I do if the mixture seems too dry?

Add a little extra milk or sour cream to achieve the right consistency. The mixture should be moist but not runny.

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

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4.5 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Irresistible cheesy mashed potato puffs bring comfort and elegance to your dinner table, blending creamy potatoes with golden, crispy edges. Cheese lovers will delight in these bite-sized treasures that elevate classic mashed potatoes into a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Seasonings and Spices:

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled

Greasing:

• Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the muffin tin)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 375F (190C) and coat a mini muffin tin with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Create a smooth base by whisking eggs and milk until thoroughly blended.
3. Incorporate mashed potatoes into the liquid mixture, ensuring a consistent texture.
4. Add shredded cheese, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the potato mixture.
5. Mix all ingredients until uniformly combined, creating a cohesive batter.
6. Gently fold chopped green onions and crumbled bacon into the mixture, distributing evenly.
7. Carefully distribute the potato mixture into muffin tin cavities, filling each approximately three-quarters full for optimal rising.
8. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for a golden-brown exterior with crispy edges.
9. Remove from oven and allow puffs to rest for 5 minutes, enabling them to set and cool slightly.
10. Delicately extract puffs from the tin using a small spatula or knife.
11. Serve immediately while warm, accompanied by complementary condiments like sour cream, ranch dressing, or ketchup for enhanced flavor.

Notes

• Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack to add unique flavor profiles and excitement to the puffs.
• Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon bits to accommodate dietary preferences without compromising taste.
• Ensure mashed potatoes are room temperature and not hot when mixing to prevent egg scrambling and maintain a smooth texture.
• Sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for a crispy, golden cheese crust that adds crunch and visual appeal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 192 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 290 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg