Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are little bites of comfort food! They’re made from fluffy mashed potatoes mixed with melted cheese, giving them a tasty twist. Perfect for a snack or side dish!
These puffs are so fun to make! I love shaping them into bites and watching them puff up in the oven. They disappear fast at my house—it’s like a potato party! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and creamy potatoes are key here for texture. I like to use russets because they mash well. If you have leftovers, they work perfectly! For a twist, try sweet potatoes or cauliflower mash for a different flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a great flavor, but feel free to blend in your favorites—Monterey Jack or Gouda also work well. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese or skip the cheese altogether for a tasty potato puff!
Eggs: These help bind the mixture together. If you need an egg substitute, try 1/4 cup of applesauce or a tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with water as a vegan option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds lovely flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can be a substitute. I prefer roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter note, if you want to elevate the taste!
Dried Thyme: This herb adds earthiness. I often switch to fresh thyme for a brighter flavor. If you don’t have thyme, Italian seasoning works too, or even some chopped chives for a fresh taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Golden Brown Top?
Baking the puffs until they are golden is crucial for both flavor and aesthetics. Here are some tips to achieve that lovely color:
- Ensure the oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps the tops crisp up nicely!
- Using the right amount of butter or cooking spray on the muffin tin can also help with browning.
- If needed, you can broil them for a minute or two at the end, but watch closely to prevent burning.
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (preferably smooth and creamy)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
For the Muffin Tin:
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing muffin tin)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes to enjoy these delightful Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, take a muffin tin and grease it with non-stick spray or a little butter. This will help our puffs pop out easily later!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the smooth mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, milk (or cream), minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Mix everything together well until it’s all fully combined and looks delicious!
3. Add the Eggs:
Crack the two large eggs into the bowl with your mixture. Stir well until the eggs are completely blended into the potato mixture. This helps bind everything together for a nice texture.
4. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Using a spoon, carefully scoop the potato mixture into the greased muffin cups. Fill each cup about three-quarters full and press down lightly to compact the mixture. This will help them hold their shape while baking!
5. Bake the Puffs:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You want the tops to be golden brown and slightly crispy. It’s the best part!
6. Cool and Remove:
Once they’re baked, take the muffin tin out of the oven and let the puffs cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. This will make them easier to remove. After that, gently pop them out and place them on a plate.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, add a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves on top of each puff for a touch of color and flavor. Serve them warm as a yummy side dish or a tasty appetizer. You can also enjoy them with a dipping sauce of your choice!
Enjoy your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is a great way to use up any leftover mashed potatoes. Just make sure they are smooth and creamy for the best texture in your puffs.
Can I Make These Puffs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture and fill the muffin tin in advance, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, simply bake them straight from the fridge; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they cook through.
How Do I Store Leftover Puffs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave them for 20-30 seconds if you’re in a hurry.
Can I Freeze Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?
Yes, you can freeze these puffs! Allow them to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen by baking at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
