Get ready for a cheesy, crispy, and utterly irresistible treat that takes mashed potatoes to the next level! These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the perfect combination of soft, creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a crispy golden exterior. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer, these puffs will disappear in no time!
A crispy, cheesy outside with a soft, creamy mashed potato inside — these puffs are a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love It:
- Perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes
- Crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside
- Customizable with your favorite cheeses and herbs
- Great for snacks, parties, or as a side dish to your main meal
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Breadcrumbs for coating (panko works great)
- Vegetable oil for frying (or spray for baking)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture
In a large bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, flour, egg, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper). Mix until everything is well combined, creating a thick and sticky dough-like mixture.
2. Shape the Puffs
With your hands, scoop out small amounts of the mashed potato mixture and roll them into balls or oval-shaped puffs. Aim for about 1-2 tablespoons of mixture per puff. You can make them larger or smaller, depending on your preference.
3. Coat the Puffs
Roll each potato puff in breadcrumbs to coat evenly. If you’re using panko breadcrumbs, you’ll get a lovely crispy texture once they’re fried or baked.
4. Fry or Bake
- Frying: Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully fry the potato puffs in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove them and drain on paper towels.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauce (ranch, marinara, or even sour cream). Enjoy the crispy bite and cheesy goodness!
Serving Ideas:
- Serve as an appetizer or snack with a side of dipping sauces
- Pair with a salad or soup for a comforting meal
- Add herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor
- Make them mini-sized for a fun party snack!