If you have leftover mashed potatoes and are craving a delightful, crispy, and cheesy treat, this Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe is exactly what you need. These golden, bite-sized puffs transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering snack or side that’s perfect for any occasion. Each puff is loaded with creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar, and savory Parmesan, then baked to crispy perfection. It’s a comforting dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make and endlessly versatile.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of creamy texture, cheesy richness, and a hint of fresh herbaceous flavor.
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cold or room temperature): The creamy base that holds everything together and allows for crispy edges when baked.
- 2 large eggs: These act as a binder to keep the puffs firm and help them set while baking.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, melty, and comforting flavor through every bite.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, savory punch that elevates the overall taste.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Introduces a subtle tang and extra creaminess for moist, tender puffs.
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives: Fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens the dish and adds color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors and balances the richness.
- Butter or nonstick spray for greasing muffin tin: Ensures the puffs release easily and develop a golden crust.
How to Make Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and generously greasing a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or nonstick spray. This step guarantees your puffs will bake evenly and pop out easily without sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold or room temperature mashed potatoes with the eggs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated. Season generously with salt and pepper to boost all the flavors.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin
Using a spoon, evenly distribute the potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Don’t overfill, as the puffs will expand a little during baking.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for beautifully golden-brown tops and fully set puffs that hold their shape. The edges will get lightly crisp, offering a delightful texture contrast to the creamy centers.
Step 5: Cool and Remove
Once baked, let your Mashed Potato Puffs rest in the pan for about five minutes. This short cooling phase helps them firm up slightly, making removal much easier and preventing breakage. Gently take them out and prepare for serving!
How to Serve Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
Garnishes
These puffs are a blank canvas eager to be dressed up. Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs such as parsley, chives, or thyme for a burst of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can add extra zing and creaminess. Even a tiny bit of crispy bacon or a sprinkle of smoked paprika makes them irresistibly inviting.
Side Dishes
Mashed Potato Puffs make a fantastic side for a variety of meals. Pair them with roasted chicken, a hearty beef stew, or grilled vegetables for a balanced and satisfying plate. They’re also fantastic alongside a crisp green salad or steamed greens to contrast their richness with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual get-together, serve the puffs on a decorative platter with small bowls of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping—they double as irresistible finger food. You can also present them inside lettuce cups or alongside a colorful slaw for a more refined appetizer experience that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mashed Potato Puffs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping them sealed prevents drying out, so they stay moist and tasty for your next snack or meal addition.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these delicious puffs later, freeze them after baking and cooling completely. Place them on a parchment-lined tray in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’re perfect frozen for up to two months, making them a convenient ready-to-go snack.
Reheating
To bring your frozen or refrigerated puffs back to life, reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and crisp on the outside again. Using an air fryer also works wonderfully, giving them a quick re-crisp and fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.
FAQs
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe is perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes, making it a brilliant way to reduce waste while crafting a delicious new dish.
Can I add other ingredients to the puffs?
Yes! Feel free to mix in cooked bacon bits, diced jalapeños, or swap cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella to customize flavors to your liking.
Are these puffs gluten-free?
They are naturally gluten-free as long as your mashed potatoes don’t include any flour or other gluten-containing ingredients. Always double-check if you’re using pre-made mashed potatoes.
Can I make these puffs vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs or another binder, use dairy-free cheese alternatives, and replace sour cream with vegan sour cream or coconut yogurt. The texture may vary slightly but still delightful.
What’s the best way to serve these at a party?
Serve the Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe warm with a variety of dips on the side. They are perfect finger foods that everyone will love, and you can garnish them to match your party’s theme.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about sharing a homemade treat that’s both comforting and creative, and this Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe delivers just that. It takes simple leftovers and turns them into a crispy, cheesy delight that everyone will ask for again and again. I really encourage you to give these puffs a try—they’re a fantastic addition to weeknight dinners or celebrations, bringing warm smiles and happy taste buds all around.
Print
Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 puffs
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mashed Potato Puffs are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish perfect for using leftover mashed potatoes. These cheesy, golden-baked potato bites are light, fluffy, and packed with flavor from cheddar, Parmesan, and green onions. They make a great accompaniment to any meal or a tasty snack on their own.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Puffs Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (cold or room temperature)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Butter or nonstick spray for greasing muffin tin
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or nonstick spray to prevent the puffs from sticking during baking.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions or chives. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill the Muffin Tin: Spoon the potato mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full to allow room for puffing.
- Bake the Puffs: Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the puffs are set and firm to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the potato puffs cool for 5 minutes in the pan. Gently remove each puff and serve warm as a delightful side dish.
Notes
- This recipe is an excellent way to use leftover mashed potatoes.
- Add cooked bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
- Try substituting different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for variety.
- The puffs can be made ahead and reheated in the oven or air fryer for convenience.
