Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with these delightful Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs! Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these puffs are packed with rich, cheesy flavor and are perfect for serving alongside your holiday favorites. Easy to make and utterly crowd-pleasing, they are the ultimate comfort food that will make your holiday gatherings even more special.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are not just a side dish but a centerpiece that brings joy to the table. The combination of textures and flavors will delight your guests and leave them craving more!
Perfect for Any Occasion
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are not just for Thanksgiving; they are a versatile side dish suitable for any festive occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, potluck, or a cozy dinner party, these puffs will impress your guests and elevate the meal. Their delightful blend of flavors and textures ensures that they will be the highlight of any table, making them a must-try recipe for any season.
The beauty of these puffs is in their adaptability. You can serve them as appetizers or alongside your main dishes. Their crispy exterior and creamy cheese filling provide a satisfying bite, making them a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Consider these puffs as a delicious addition to birthday parties, holiday celebrations, or just because you deserve a treat!
Easy to Make Ahead of Time
Preparing for a holiday feast can be overwhelming, but Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs simplify your cooking process. You can easily prepare the puffs in advance and freeze them before baking. This way, you can save time on the day of your celebration. Simply shape the puffs, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to serve, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for a perfectly crispy finish.
Making these puffs ahead not only minimizes last-minute stress but also allows you to enjoy your company without worrying about last-minute cooking. Guests will be thrilled to savor these delicious puffs while you engage in holiday cheer, making your event even more enjoyable.
Customize Your Cheesy Goodness
One of the best aspects of Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs is their versatility. You can easily tailor the cheese selection to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer the sharpness of cheddar, the creaminess of mozzarella, or the richness of gouda, the choice is yours! Additionally, consider adding in other ingredients like crispy bacon bits, jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even herbs like parsley and thyme to elevate the flavor profile even further.
This recipe encourages creativity, so feel free to experiment! You can mix and match different types of cheese, add vegetables such as spinach or broccoli, or even use sweet potatoes for a different taste. The foundational recipe remains the same, allowing you to create a version of these puffs that is uniquely yours.
Ingredients
For the Puffs
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together before shaping into puffs.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, green onions, breadcrumbs, egg, and season with salt and pepper.
Shape the Puffs
Take a small amount of the mixture and shape it into a small ball or puff. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Bake the Puffs
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs left over, storing them properly ensures they remain delightful for your next munch. Allow the puffs to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be stored for up to three days and reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This method will help them regain some of their original crispiness, making them just as enjoyable as the first bite.
For longer storage, consider freezing leftover puffs in a single layer before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. Whenever a snack craving arises, simply bake them directly from the freezer, ensuring you have a delightful, cheesy treat ready in no time.
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to pairing these scrumptious Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs, the options are endless! They complement a variety of dishes, whether you're serving roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a hearty vegetable medley. Their creamy texture balances well with savory meats, making them the perfect side dish for any main course.
For a complete meal experience, consider serving the puffs with a side of cranberry sauce, gravy, or a fresh garden salad. The combination will create a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that will keep your taste buds satisfied. Your guests will surely be asking for seconds and thirds!
Cooking Tips
Achieving the ideal texture for your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs can be enhanced with a few simple tips. Make sure your mashed potatoes are smooth and not too watery, as excessive moisture can affect the puff’s consistency. Additionally, using cold potatoes can help the mixture hold its shape better when baking.
Be mindful of the size of your puffs. Making them uniform in size ensures even cooking, providing a satisfying crunch on the outside while maintaining a creamy interior. Using a small ice cream scoop can help you achieve consistent puff sizes, making the process easier and more efficient.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the puffs, then refrigerate them before baking.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with these delightful Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs! Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these puffs are packed with rich, cheesy flavor and are perfect for serving alongside your holiday favorites. Easy to make and utterly crowd-pleasing, they are the ultimate comfort food that will make your holiday gatherings even more special.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Puffs
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, green onions, breadcrumbs, egg, and season with salt and pepper.
Take a small amount of the mixture and shape it into a small ball or puff. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 6g