If you’re craving a snack that’s irresistibly cheesy, fluffy, and downright addictive, look no further than this Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe. These little golden bites combine creamy mashed potatoes with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese, all brought together with flavorful green onions and just the right seasoning. Whether you bake, fry, or air-fry them, they deliver a crisp outside and soft, cheesy center that’s perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a cozy comfort food snack any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients that together create a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy mashed potatoes forming the base to the cheeses providing richness, and the green onions adding a fresh bite.
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes: The creamy foundation that holds everything together with a smooth texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, melty richness that brightens every bite.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a subtle nutty flavor and extra depth.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Introduces a mild onion crunch and fresh green flecks.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder so the puffs hold their shape beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Lends a gentle savory warmth without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers just a whisper of spice to balance the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall taste; adjust to your preference.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (optional): Helps create a firmer texture if desired, especially for frying.
- Oil or nonstick spray: Necessary for crisping the puffs whether baking or air-frying.
How to Make Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Cooking Method
Start off by preheating your cooking equipment. Whether you’re baking in the oven at 400°F (200°C), using an air fryer at 375°F (190°C), or heating oil for deep frying at 350°F (175°C), getting the temperature right ensures your puffs cook evenly and crisp up perfectly.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, bring all those delicious ingredients together — mashed potatoes, cheddar, Parmesan, green onions, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If the mixture feels a little too soft to shape, add the optional flour. You want a consistency that can hold its shape without being too sticky or dry.
Step 3: Shape Your Cheese Puffs
Grab about one to two tablespoons of the mixture and gently roll or pat it into balls or small discs. This hands-on step is fun and lets you customize the size to your liking. Smaller puffs will cook quicker and get crispier, while larger ones stay soft inside longer.
Step 4: Cooking: Bake, Air-Fry, or Fry
If you’re baking, place the puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray them with oil, and pop them in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Don’t forget to flip halfway through for an even golden crust. For air frying, arrange them in a single layer, spray with oil, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. If frying, work in batches, frying each side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown, then drain on paper towels to keep them crisp.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Once cooked to golden perfection, your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe is ready to impress. Serve them warm with your favorite dips, and watch as they disappear bite by bite!
How to Serve Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate presentation and flavor, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives on top. A dash of smoked paprika or a drizzle of tangy sour cream can also bring vibrant color and contrast that make each puff even more tempting.
Side Dishes
These puffs pair wonderfully with hearty soups, crisp salads, or even as a tasty side for grilled meats. Their cheesy richness complements simpler, fresh sides beautifully, balancing hearty and light elements on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe into bite-sized party snacks by skewering them with cocktail sticks and serving alongside multiple dipping sauces. You could also serve them stuffed with a cube of ham or a jalapeño slice for a surprise inside. The possibilities are as fun as they are delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any uneaten puffs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To retain their delightful crispiness, avoid stacking them on top of each other.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! Arrange the puffs on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They maintain their flavor and texture for up to a month and reheat wonderfully from frozen.
Reheating
Reheat leftover puffs in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and crunchy again. Avoid microwaving, which tends to make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work best because they’re firmer and easier to shape. Freshly made mashed potatoes should be cooled completely and drained of excess moisture for ideal puff consistency.
What if I don’t have green onions?
No worries! You can substitute finely chopped chives, shallots, or even a small amount of onion powder to retain that mild onion flavor without altering the texture too much.
Is it necessary to add flour to the mixture?
Flour is optional and mainly helps if your mixture feels too wet to hold shape, especially for frying. If you prefer softer puffs or are baking, you can skip the flour for a creamier interior.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, or omit it entirely, ensuring the mashed potatoes are thick enough to hold their form.
What dips pair best with Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe?
The classic favorites are sour cream, ranch dressing, or ketchup, but don’t hesitate to try spicy sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or even a tangy chimichurri for a flavor boost.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a golden, cheesy bite, and this Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe hits that spot perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or craving a cozy snack, these puffs are simple to make, endlessly versatile, and absolutely delicious. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to treat!
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Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 18-20 puffs
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are crispy, cheesy bite-sized snacks made from creamy mashed potatoes, cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, and green onions. Perfectly seasoned and baked, air fried, or fried until golden brown, they make a delicious appetizer or side dish that’s easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for firmer texture)
For Cooking
- Oil or nonstick spray (if baking or air frying)
- Oil for frying (if deep frying)
Instructions
- Preheat Cooking Equipment: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). If you prefer frying, heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped green onions, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add in the flour if the mixture needs more firmness to hold its shape well.
- Shape the Puffs: Scoop about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll each portion into a ball or slightly flatten them into small discs for even cooking.
- Bake the Puffs: Place the shaped puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and lightly spray them with oil. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn golden and crispy.
- Air Fry the Puffs: Arrange the puffs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spray with oil, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Fry the Puffs: If frying, cook the puffs in batches in hot oil for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Enjoy the hot cheese puffs with your favorite dipping sauces such as sour cream, ranch dressing, or ketchup for a delightful snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Adding flour to the mixture helps to hold the shape better, especially if your mashed potatoes are very soft or watery.
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer, but cheddar and Parmesan provide a rich, sharp flavor.
- To make these gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- The puffs are best served immediately for optimal crispness but can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven or air fryer.
- If baking, flipping halfway ensures even browning on both sides.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste, and for a bit of heat, add some chili flakes or paprika to the mix.
