Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, offering a golden, crispy exterior with a soft, creamy inside. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a party snack, these little puffs are packed with flavor and are incredibly easy to make.
Whether you are looking to use up leftover mashed potatoes or simply want to impress guests with a creative treat, Mashed Potato Puffs will quickly become a favorite. With a rich blend of cheese, herbs, and potatoes, these puffs deliver comfort food at its finest. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for dipping and sharing, adding a fun and tasty flair to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably cold and firm)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crispiness)
- Butter or oil for greasing the muffin tin
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a hot oven that will make the puffs crispy and golden.
Grease a mini muffin tin generously with butter or oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, milk, bacon (if using), green onions, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste preference, mixing thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
If you prefer an extra crispy texture, you can also mix in the breadcrumbs at this stage, or reserve them to sprinkle on top later.
Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup to the top but not overflowing.
If desired, sprinkle a light layer of breadcrumbs or a little extra cheese over each puff to create a beautifully crisp and cheesy top.
Place the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges look crispy.
Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the puffs cool in the tin for about 5 minutes to firm up slightly and make them easier to remove.
Use a small spoon or a butter knife to gently loosen the puffs from the tin and transfer them to a serving platter.
Serve the Mashed Potato Puffs warm with your favorite dipping sauce such as sour cream, ranch, or even a spicy aioli for an extra burst of flavor.
Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days; simply reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.
Extra Tips for the Best Mashed Potato Puffs
Make sure your mashed potatoes are cold and firm to ensure the puffs hold their shape during baking.
Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, or pepper jack to create new flavor variations.
Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or jalapeños for a colorful and nutritious twist.
For an even more indulgent puff, tuck a small cube of mozzarella cheese into the center of each puff before baking.
Mashed Potato Puffs can easily be made ahead of time; prepare the mixture and fill the muffin tin, then refrigerate until ready to bake.
They also freeze well after baking, making them a fantastic make-ahead snack for busy days or party planning.
Mashed Potato Puffs bring the rich, creamy comfort of mashed potatoes into a crispy, portable form that is perfect for every occasion. Whether served as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer, these golden puffs are sure to impress everyone at the table.