Description
These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and easy way to transform cold mashed potatoes into golden, crispy, cheesy bites. Perfect as a snack or side, they combine cheddar and Parmesan cheeses with fresh chives for a flavorful twist baked to perfection in a mini muffin pan.
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 2 cups cold leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Preparation
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a hot environment for baking the puffs to a golden brown.
- Prepare the baking pan: Generously grease a mini muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and help with browning.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cold mashed potatoes, beaten egg, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped chives or green onions, garlic powder if using, and season with salt and black pepper to your preference.
- Mix the batter: Stir the mixture just until combined, being careful not to overwork it to keep the puffs light and fluffy.
- Fill the muffin cups: Spoon the potato and cheese mixture into the prepared mini muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow space for rising and browning.
- Bake: Place the muffin pan in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on top.
- Cool slightly: Remove the pan from the oven and let the puffs cool for about 5 minutes in the tin to set properly before carefully removing them.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the cheese puffs warm, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Notes
- Use cold leftover mashed potatoes for best structure and texture.
- You can substitute sharp cheddar with another flavorful cheese like Gruyère or mozzarella for variation.
- Adding garlic powder is optional but enhances the savory profile.
- Chives can be replaced with green onions or fresh parsley.
- These puffs can be made ahead and reheated in the oven or air fryer.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the puffs tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: leftover mashed potatoes, cheese puffs, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, appetizer, snack, baked, easy recipe
