– **Title**: Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
– **Ingredients**:
– 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared and cooled)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
– Cooking spray or oil for greasing the baking sheet
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or oil.
2. In a large bowl, combine the prepared mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Using your hands or a scoop, form small balls or puffs of the potato mixture, about 1-inch in diameter.
4. Roll each potato puff in the breadcrumbs until fully coated and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Once all the puffs are formed and coated, lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with a bit of oil for added crispiness.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your cheesy mashed potato puffs warm!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mashed Potatoes: Use any type of mashed potatoes, but I recommend using russet or Yukon gold for creaminess. If you have leftovers, they work perfectly here!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you’re after a milder taste, use mild cheddar or even pepper jack for a little kick!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for taste! If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano is a closer match. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can replace sour cream if you’re looking for a healthier twist. It adds creaminess and a bit of tang.
Green Onions: Chopped chives or shallots make good substitutes here. They add a mild onion flavor that’s fresh and zingy!
How Do You Ensure Your Mashed Potato Puffs Are Fluffy?
For fluffy potato puffs, it’s crucial to mix your ingredients just right. Over-mixing can lead to dense texture, so be gentle once you combine the mashed potatoes with the other ingredients.
- When preparing the mashed potatoes, make sure they’re smooth and lump-free before adding the other ingredients.
- Fold in the cheese and other additions rather than stirring vigorously.
Also, filling the muffin tin only 3/4 full allows for a nice rise and prevents overflow during baking!
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings:
- Extra shredded cheese for topping
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be looking at a total of around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick snack or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, take a muffin tin and grease it using non-stick cooking spray or a bit of butter to prevent the puffs from sticking.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared mashed potatoes with the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, egg, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Spoon the cheesy mashed potato mixture into the greased muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. If you’re feeling extra cheesy, sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top of each puff before baking!
4. Bake the Puffs:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the tops to turn golden brown and the edges to get slightly crispy.
5. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re baked to perfection, take the muffin tin out of the oven and let the puffs cool for a few minutes. If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the cheesy mashed potato puffs from the muffin tin and serve them warm. Enjoy your tasty and cheesy treats!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes are perfect for this recipe. Just ensure they are not too watery; if they are, you can add a little extra flour or cheese to help bind the mixture. Adjust the seasonings as necessary since leftovers may already have flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or even cottage cheese for a similar tangy flavor. Just blend the cottage cheese until smooth for the best texture. You can also use cream cheese, but you may want to dilute it with a bit of milk to achieve a smoother consistency.
How Should I 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 place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help retain their crispy texture.
Can I Freeze Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs?
Yes, you can freeze these puffs! After baking and cooling them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
