Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Experience the ultimate comfort food with these crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. Golden on the outside and gooey on the inside, these bites are packed with cheesy goodness and are perfect as a party appetizer or a snack for family movie night. Easy to make and utterly addictive, they will quickly become a favorite for cheese lovers of all ages.
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, transforming leftover spuds into a crispy and cheesy snack that is hard to resist.
A Delicious Twist on Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a beloved comfort food, known for their creamy texture and rich flavor. Elevating that classic dish by turning it into crunchy cheese puffs gives it a delightful twist that makes it even more appealing. The combination of the soft interior with a crispy exterior creates an enjoyable contrast in each bite. This recipe allows you to use leftover mashed potatoes, making it not only delicious but also a smart way to avoid food waste.
These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are versatile, too! You can customize them by varying the types of cheese or adding ingredients like bacon bits, jalapeños, or even herbs to suit your palate. Whatever your choices, these puffs maintain their status as family favorites, often disappearing before they even make it to the dining table.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for a game night, or simply need a delicious snack, Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs fit the bill perfectly. They’re easy to prepare, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time. Serve them as appetizers at a gathering, and watch as they quickly become the star of the show. Their golden-brown appearance and cheesy aroma will draw everyone in, making them the go-to snack.
Moreover, these puffs are not only tasty but also kid-friendly! They make for a fun meal option that even picky eaters will be keen to try. The gooey cheese on the inside and crispy coating outside creates an inviting texture that children and adults alike can appreciate. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch or marinara, for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potato Base
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Frying
- Oil for frying
Mix all the ingredients until well combined.
Instructions
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, green onions, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Shape the Puffs
Using your hands, form small balls from the mixture, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
Heat the Oil
In a deep pan, heat oil over medium heat for frying.
Fry the Puffs
Carefully place the potato balls in the hot oil, frying for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious cheese puffs!
Serving Suggestions
For an enhanced snacking experience, consider pairing your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs with a variety of dipping sauces. Sweet chili sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli can all complement the cheesy goodness perfectly. Set up a small dipping station at your next gathering, allowing guests to choose their favorite sauce and elevate their snacking experience.
These cheese puffs can also be served alongside a fresh salad for a more balanced meal. Consider a light citrus or vinaigrette salad to balance the richness of the puffs. This way, you can enjoy a nutritious meal while still indulging in comfort food.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely!), store your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheating them in an air fryer or oven can restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy instead of crunchy.
For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked potato balls. Lay them out on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be fried straight from the freezer; just add an extra minute to the frying time. This makes for a quick and easy snack anytime!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Yes, leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly for this recipe.
→ How can I store the cheese puffs?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Experience the ultimate comfort food with these crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. Golden on the outside and gooey on the inside, these bites are packed with cheesy goodness and are perfect as a party appetizer or a snack for family movie night. Easy to make and utterly addictive, they will quickly become a favorite for cheese lovers of all ages.
Created by: Mario
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Mashed Potato Base
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Frying
- Oil for frying
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, green onions, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Using your hands, form small balls from the mixture, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
In a deep pan, heat oil over medium heat for frying.
Carefully place the potato balls in the hot oil, frying for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g