Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs The Ultimate Comfort Snack

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Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs: The Ultimate Comfort Snack

Introduction

Keeping your loved ones happy often involves delightful culinary surprises, and what better way than with crispy, cheesy, golden-brown bites of goodness? Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect balance of creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and a crisp outer shell. These little flavor bombs are great for breakfast, snacks, or even as a fun side dish.

Whether you’re making them from leftover mashed potatoes or fresh ones, this recipe will guide you through everything—history, benefits, methods, nutrition, and even how they can bring people together. So, let’s turn some simple ingredients into a dish your family will beg for!

History of Mashed Potato Puffs

Mashed potatoes have been around for centuries, but transforming them into crispy puffs is a modern take. In France, similar dishes like pommes dauphine (deep-fried potato puffs) have been popular for ages. Meanwhile, in the U.S., mashed potato-based appetizers have become a beloved way to repurpose leftovers into something exciting. Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs combine the best of both worlds—classic comfort with a crispy twist.

Benefits of Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

  1. Comfort Food Bliss – Perfect for satisfying cravings.
  2. Great Use of Leftovers – No more wasted mashed potatoes!
  3. Kid-Friendly – Soft inside, crispy outside—what’s not to love?
  4. Customizable – Add bacon, herbs, or even different cheeses.
  5. Easy to Make – Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.

Ingredients

For the Potato Puffs:

  • 2 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or leftover)
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs (for texture)

For Baking/Frying:

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (if baking)
  • 1 cup vegetable oil (if frying)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

  1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, egg, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Stir everything together until well-mixed. The mixture should be thick and hold its shape.

Step 2: Shape the Puffs

  1. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the potato mixture and roll it into a small ball.
  2. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
  3. Roll each ball lightly in breadcrumbs for an extra crispy finish.

Step 3: Cook the Potato Puffs

Choose your preferred method:

  • Oven-Baked Method:
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the potato puffs on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Brush with melted butter.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  • Air Fryer Method:
  1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange potato puffs in a single layer.
  3. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy.
  • Deep-Frying Method:
  1. Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  3. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like sour cream, ranch, or spicy mayo. Garnish with extra green onions and Parmesan for a restaurant-style touch.

Cooking Methods (Alternative Ways to Enjoy)

  • Stuffed Potato Puffs – Hide a cube of cheese inside each puff for a gooey center.
  • Spicy Puffs – Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick.
  • Loaded Puffs – Mix in crispy bacon bits and chives.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Carbs: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g

Why People Love Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

These little bites have a way of bringing people together. Whether it’s kids sneaking extra servings, friends grabbing them off the tray at a party, or partners enjoying them over a cozy movie night, they’re a dish that sparks joy.

Conclusion

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are more than just a tasty snack; they’re a way to show love through food. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and irresistibly delicious, they might just become a new favorite in your home.

Would you like a dipping sauce recipe to go with them?

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