These golden, crispy mashed potato puffs are a delicious and fun way to use leftover mashed potatoes. They make a great appetizer, side dish, or even a snack!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes (preferably thick and creamy)
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (or any cheese that melts well)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying (enough to submerge puffs halfway)
- Optional: Breadcrumbs for coating (for extra crispiness)
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, flour, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and onion powder (if using). Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. The mixture should be thick enough to form balls.
- Shape the Puffs: Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out about 1-2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and gently shape it into a ball. If you want extra crispy puffs, you can roll the balls in breadcrumbs at this stage.
- Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small piece of bread dropped into it sizzles immediately.
- Fry the Puffs: Carefully place the potato puffs into the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy all over.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the puffs from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot: Serve immediately. These are delicious on their own or with a dipping sauce like ranch, ketchup, or a creamy garlic dip.
Tips and Variations:
- For smoother puffs: Use a potato ricer or food mill to mash your potatoes for a smoother texture.
- Add herbs: Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme for added flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.
- Baking instead of frying: For a healthier option, you can bake the puffs instead of frying. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place shaped puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
- Freezing: You can freeze the shaped puffs before frying. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.