Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are quick, fluffy, and cheesy snacks that combine creamy mashed potatoes with melted cheese to create golden, bite-sized delights. Perfect for busy days, casual gatherings, or kids’ lunchboxes, these puffs offer a soft, airy inside and a slightly crispy exterior in under 30 minutes using simple pantry ingredients.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: About 20 puffs 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups creamy mashed potatoes, well-seasoned
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (substitute gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture: Start with well-mashed potatoes, either homemade or store-bought, and combine them with the beaten egg, melted butter, flour, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
- Fold in Cheese: Gently fold in shredded cheese to evenly distribute it throughout the mixture, ensuring every puff contains delicious, melty pockets of cheese.
- Shape the Puffs: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion the mixture into small rounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave a little space between each puff for even baking.
- Bake Until Golden: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the puffs for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through. Check frequently to avoid burning.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the puffs to cool slightly before serving to enjoy their fluffy texture and melted cheesy center without burning your fingers.
Notes
- Use cold mashed potatoes for easier shaping and less sticky dough.
- Do not overmix the ingredients to keep the puffs light and airy.
- Try different cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for unique flavors.
- Watch baking time carefully to prevent drying out the puffs.
- Mix fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for added freshness.
- Roll puffs in breadcrumbs before baking for extra crispiness.
- These puffs can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
- For a vegan version, use dairy-free cheese, vegan butter, and a flax egg.
- Reheat in a toaster or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, avoid microwaving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 puffs
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: mashed potato, cheese puffs, quick snack, appetizer, kid-friendly, gluten-free option, easy recipe, cheesy bites, party snack