Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs! They’re like little bites of comfort food heaven, and honestly, they’ve become a staple in our home. I first made them for a cozy get-together with friends, and they were such a hit that everyone went back for seconds (and some even thirds!). There’s something so satisfying about the creamy, cheesy filling combined with that crispy outside. I mean, who wouldn’t want that?
These puffs are super easy to whip up, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or any get-together. The smell of them baking in the oven is enough to make your mouth water! And the best part? They’re a total crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters enjoy. If you love mash potatoes, this is a fun, creative twist that brings a little extra excitement to your plate. If you’re looking for something to serve alongside, why not try them with my easy Garlic Butter Chicken? They pair perfectly together!
Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
- Combines creamy mashed potatoes with gooey cheddar and cream cheese for ultimate cheesiness
- Perfectly puffed up and golden brown, giving you delightful textures
- Quick to prepare and bake, making it a fantastic last-minute dish
- Versatile as both an appetizer and a side dish for various meals
- Easy to customize—add your favorite herbs, spices, or even diced vegetables!
- Ideal for using up leftover mashed potatoes, reducing waste
These puffs are not only deliciously cheesy but also a fun way to serve mashed potatoes, making them a hit at any gathering!
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish, these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the way to go! They’re crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and bursting with cheesy goodness—perfect for a snack, appetizer, or side at dinner.
What You’ll Need:
- Mashed potatoes – 2 cups, prepared and cooled. Leftover mashed potatoes work great here!
- Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup, for that melty goodness. I love using sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor.
- Cream cheese – 1/2 cup, softened. This adds a rich creamiest to the puffs. Don’t skip it!
- Eggs – 2 large, to bind everything together.
- Milk – 1/4 cup. Whole milk adds a nice creaminess, but any milk will do!
- Green onions – 1/4 cup, chopped, for a fresh bite and pretty color.
- Garlic powder – 1/2 teaspoon, to give it that delicious savory flavor.
- Onion powder – 1/2 teaspoon, enhances the overall taste.
- Salt and pepper – to taste. Adjust according to your preferences!
- Grated Parmesan cheese – 1/4 cup, for topping. I like using freshly grated for the best flavor.
- Cooking spray or butter – for greasing the muffin tin or baking dish.
The Directions:
- First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that warms up, grease a mini muffin tin or baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, eggs, milk, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything until it’s smooth and well combined—it should be creamy!
- Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. This helps them puff up nicely without overflowing.
- Next, sprinkle the tops of each puff with grated Parmesan cheese. Just enough to create a lovely crispy layer when baked!
- Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and puffed up. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Once they’re finished, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm!
Enjoy your delightful Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs as an appetizer or as a tasty side at dinner. Trust me, they won’t last long!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes. Just make sure they are cooled before mixing them with the other ingredients. If your leftover mashed potatoes are quite thick, you may want to add a little extra milk to achieve the desired consistency.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can substitute it with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture. Just keep in mind that sour cream will add a slight tangy flavor which can be delicious in this recipe!
How to Store Leftover Puffs?
Store any leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick snack.
Can I Freeze These Puffs?
Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, let the puffs cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
