Description
Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful snack or side dish made from chilled mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and fresh chives. Coated with Parmesan and baked to golden perfection, they’re perfect for parties or a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (chilled)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup chives (chopped)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Coating
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
For Baking
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the muffin pan)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously grease a mini muffin pan with butter or cooking spray to ensure the puffs don’t stick and bake evenly.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chilled mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients until they are well incorporated.
- Add the egg: Crack in the egg and mix thoroughly into the potato mixture until everything is evenly blended, which will help bind the ingredients together.
- Form balls: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls, making sure they are compact and uniform in size for even baking.
- Coat with Parmesan: Roll each potato ball in the grated Parmesan cheese to coat the exterior, which creates a flavorful, crispy crust once baked.
- Place in muffin pan: Place the coated balls into the prepared mini muffin cups and gently press down slightly to help maintain their shape during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges of the puffs turn golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and serve: Allow the puffs to cool in the muffin pan for a few minutes before carefully removing them. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the potato mixture.
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for convenience and enhanced flavor.
- These puffs can be made ahead and refrigerated; reheat in the oven for crispiness.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar with your favorite cheese such as mozzarella or gouda.
- Gluten-free flour can be used to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Ensure mashed potatoes are chilled to make shaping easier and prevent sticking.
