Here’s a Mashed Potato Puffs recipe that’s crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside—perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes or making a fun side dish for any meal!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (preferably leftover or freshly made)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Parmesan, or a blend)
- 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners to make it easy to remove the puffs.
2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, cook and mash about 4 large potatoes (or 6 medium-sized ones). Let them cool slightly before using them.
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, melted butter, sour cream (or cream cheese), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is smooth and well-combined.
3. Add the Eggs:
- Stir in the beaten eggs until the mixture is smooth and the eggs are fully incorporated. This will help the puffs hold together and give them a light texture when baked.
4. Shape the Puffs:
- Using a spoon or your hands, scoop about 2-3 tablespoons of the mashed potato mixture and form into small mounds or puffs. Place them into the muffin tin, pressing them down slightly.
- If you prefer extra crispiness, roll the potato mounds in the breadcrumbs before placing them in the muffin tin.
5. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on top.
- If you want extra crispiness, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes (just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!).
6. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Tips:
- Add-ins: You can customize these mashed potato puffs by adding cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions, or herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: These are great for meal prep—just refrigerate them and reheat in the oven before serving.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butter and a dairy-free cheese alternative if you want to make these vegan-friendly.
These Mashed Potato Puffs are perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a fun twist on classic mashed potatoes. They’re crispy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious! 🥔✨