Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
Mashed potato puffs are a light, savory, and utterly satisfying snack that’s as elegant as it is comforting. This recipe combines creamy mashed potatoes with rich cheese, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of fresh chives, creating a versatile dish that’s perfect for both appetizers and sides. Each puff bakes to a golden brown, delivering a crispy exterior and a soft, creamy center that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re looking to serve an easy finger food at your next gathering or just want a fun twist on mashed potatoes, these puffs are sure to please. The addition of Gruyère or Parmesan cheese lends a delightful richness, while the bacon and chives provide a savory burst of flavor in each bite.
Ready in under 30 minutes, these mashed potato puffs are also an excellent way to use up any leftover mashed potatoes. So, let’s turn simple ingredients into something truly delicious and crowd-pleasing!
Key Ingredients for Mashed Potato Puffs
- Mashed Potatoes – The creamy base that holds the puffs together, adding softness and richness.
- Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients and giving the puffs structure as they bake.
- Grated Cheese – Gruyère or Parmesan add a sharp, nutty flavor and a satisfying melt in each bite.
- Cooked Bacon or Ham – Optional, but highly recommended for a smoky, savory twist that enhances the overall flavor.
- Fresh Chives – Adds a touch of color and a mild oniony flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly.
- Kosher Salt & Fresh Black Pepper – For a balanced seasoning to bring out all the flavors in the dish.
- Sour Cream (optional) – A cool and creamy accompaniment for dipping.
How to Make Mashed Potato Puffs
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and set the rack in the center position. Grease each cup of a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, beaten eggs, 3/4 cup of the grated cheese, chives, and bacon or ham (if using) until well combined. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Spoon the potato mixture into the mini muffin cups, filling each one evenly, then sprinkle a little of the remaining cheese on top of each puff.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the puffs have set.
- Let the puffs cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes before gently removing them with a spoon or small knife. Serve immediately, with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Tips for Perfect Mashed Potato Puffs
- Achieve the Right Texture: Make sure the mashed potatoes are smooth and creamy; lumps can make the puffs uneven in texture.
- Cheese Choices: Gruyère and Parmesan both add a sophisticated flavor, but feel free to use other cheeses like sharp Cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
- Customize the Size: You can make these in regular muffin tins if you prefer larger puffs, just adjust the baking time to about 25–30 minutes.
- Prevent Sticking: If your muffin tin isn’t non-stick, grease generously to ensure each puff comes out smoothly.
Flavor Variations to Try
For a fun flavor twist, experiment with these variations:
- Loaded Baked Potato Style: Swap in Cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. Serve with sour cream and extra chives for a loaded baked potato vibe.
- Curried Potato Puffs: Add 1 teaspoon of curry powder along with chopped red onion and diced jalapeño. Serve with yogurt and cucumber for a cool contrast.
- Goat Cheese & Spinach: Mix in finely chopped spinach, minced garlic, and crumbled goat cheese for a creamy, tangy bite.
- Italian-Inspired: Add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and diced shallots. Serve with marinara for a Mediterranean twist.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Potato Puffs
Store any leftover potato puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 10–15 minutes, restoring their crispy exterior. You can also freeze the puffs for up to a month; reheat directly from frozen in a 400°F oven until heated through and crisp.
These mashed potato puffs are a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish, whether served at brunch, as a holiday side, or as a snack on a cozy evening in!
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs Recipe
Ingredients
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing
- 2 cups cooked mashed potatoes
- 3 large eggs beaten
- 1 cup grated cheese such as Gruyère or Parmesan, divided
- 1/4 cup finely diced cooked bacon or ham optional
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and position the rack in the center. Grease each cup of a mini muffin tin lightly with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, beaten eggs, 3/4 cup of the grated cheese, chives, and diced bacon or ham (if using). Stir until the mixture is well incorporated, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the muffin cups, filling each one evenly. Top each filled cup with a sprinkle of the remaining 1/4 cup cheese.
- Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the puffs are fully set.
- Allow the puffs to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before carefully releasing them with a spoon or small knife. Serve immediately, adding a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Notes
Loaded Baked Potato: Use Cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, and green onions; serve with sour cream and chives.
Curried Potato Puffs: Add 1 teaspoon of curry powder, chopped red onion, and jalapeño; serve with yogurt and cucumber. Goat Cheese & Spinach: Incorporate finely chopped spinach, minced garlic, and crumbled goat cheese. Italian-Inspired: Add sun-dried tomatoes, chopped basil, and finely diced shallots; serve with tomato sauce.
