Golden, crispy on the outside and soft, cheesy, and fluffy on the inside—these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the perfect way to turn leftover mashed potatoes into a delicious, bite-sized treat! Packed with gooey cheddar, savory Parmesan, and a hint of garlic, these puffs make an irresistible appetizer, snack, or side dish. Baked to perfection in a muffin tin, they’re easy to make and even easier to devour. Whether served as a fun party bite or a comforting addition to dinner, these potato puffs are sure to be a hit!
**Servings:** 12 puffs
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 30 minutes
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or fresh)
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– ¼ cup chopped chives (plus extra for garnish)
– ¼ cup milk
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
– Cooking spray (for greasing the muffin tin)
**Instructions:**
**1. Preheat Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin with butter or cooking spray.
**2. Prepare Mixture:**
In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, chopped chives, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix well.
**3. Fill Muffin Tin:**
Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
**4. Top with Cheese:**
Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top of each puff.
**5. Bake:**
Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
**6. Garnish and Serve:**
Let cool for a few minutes, then remove from the tin. Sprinkle with extra chives and serve warm.
**Tips:**
– **Add crumbled bacon or diced ham for extra flavor.**
– **Serve with a side of sour cream or ranch dressing.**
– **Make them spicier by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.**
**Tips for Perfect Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs**
– **Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes:** Chilled mashed potatoes work best as they hold their shape better when baked.
– **Don’t Overmix:** Stir just until combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
– **Add Extra Flavor:** Mix in cooked bacon, diced ham, caramelized onions, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a flavor boost.
– **Crispy Edges? Yes, Please!** Lightly grease the muffin tin with butter instead of cooking spray for extra crispiness.
– **Cheese Matters:** Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, but you can experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or Gruyère.
– **Make it Spicy:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
– **Perfect Pairing:** Serve with sour cream, ranch dressing, or a dollop of garlic aioli for dipping.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate comfort food—crispy, golden, and bursting with cheesy goodness! Whether you’re repurposing leftover mashed potatoes or making them fresh, these bite-sized delights are a surefire hit for any meal. Easy to customize and even easier to devour, they’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. Serve them warm with your favorite dips, and watch them disappear in no time!