Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Resourceful: A fantastic method to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes, minimizing food waste.

• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe comes together effortlessly.

• Versatile: Serve these puffs as an appetizer, snack, or side dish alongside your favorite meals.

Ingredients

• 3 cups mashed potatoes (preferably chilled)

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your preferred melting cheese)

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)

• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped

• 1/3 cup sour cream

• 2 eggs, beaten

• Salt, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Wet Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and sour cream until smooth.

3. Incorporate Cheeses and Chives: Stir in the shredded cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped chives, ensuring an even distribution.

4. Combine with Mashed Potatoes: Gently fold the chilled mashed potatoes into the egg mixture. Mix thoroughly to achieve a uniform consistency.

5. Add Flour and Seasoning: Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and add salt to taste. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.

6. Fill the Muffin Tin: Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full to allow room for puffing during baking.

7. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the puffs have risen.

8. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the puffs cool slightly before taking them out of the muffin tin. Serve warm with your favorite dip or as a side dish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12 puffs

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Baking Time: 20–25 minutes

• Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes

Variations

• Herb Infusion: Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.

• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses such as Gouda, Gruyère, or blue cheese for a unique taste.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative to accommodate dietary preferences.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place any leftover puffs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: These puffs freeze well. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Store for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the puffs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes?

Yes, substituting sweet potatoes will add a hint of sweetness and a different flavor profile to the puffs.

2. What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar and mozzarella are excellent choices due to their melting properties, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses to suit your taste.

3. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use plant-based cheese alternatives and a dairy-free sour cream to make the puffs suitable for a dairy-free diet.

4. Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

5. Are these puffs suitable for freezing before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked puffs in the muffin tin. When ready to bake, place them directly in the preheated oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

6. What dipping sauces pair well with these puffs?

Sour cream, marinara sauce, or a homemade aioli make excellent accompaniments.

7. Can I add vegetables to the mixture?

Finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

8. How do I prevent the puffs from sticking to the muffin tin?

Ensure the muffin tin is well-greased, or use silicone muffin liners to prevent sticking.

9. Can I make these puffs without eggs?

Eggs help bind the mixture, but you can try using a flaxseed or chia seed slurry as an egg substitute.

10. How can I achieve extra crispiness on the outside?

Sprinkling breadcrumbs on top before baking can add an extra layer of crunch to the puffs.

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