Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful treat that combines the comforting creaminess of mashed potatoes with the irresistible crunch of golden-brown cheese puffs. savory potato gratin dish Imagine biting into a warm, cheesy pillow that bursts with flavor and texture, making your taste buds dance with joy.
These crispy delights are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering with friends. I remember the first time I made them; my kitchen smelled like heaven, and my friends couldn’t get enough of these little bites of joy. quick and easy pizza bites
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These crispy mashed potato cheese puffs are incredibly easy to whip up, making them ideal for busy weeknights
- Their rich flavor profile combines creamy potatoes and gooey cheese, enchanting everyone at the table
- Visually appealing and golden brown, they make any meal feel special
- Enjoy them as an appetizer or snack, showcasing their versatility on any occasion
I once served these crispy mashed potato cheese puffs at a party, and they disappeared faster than you could say “more cheese!” loaded vegetarian nachos.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Mashed Potatoes: Use leftover mashed potatoes for convenience; they should be creamy but not too runny.
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Shredded Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly.
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Eggs: These help bind everything together; fresh eggs work best for optimal texture.
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Breadcrumbs: Using seasoned breadcrumbs adds an extra layer of flavor to the coating.
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Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh burst of flavor and color to each bite.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors of your ingredients.
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Oil for Frying: Choose vegetable oil for frying; it has a high smoke point that’s perfect for achieving crispiness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare your taste buds because we’re about to embark on an amazing culinary adventure!
Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine your leftover mashed potatoes with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, eggs, salt, and pepper until well mixed. The mixture should be cohesive but still fluffy.
Scoop and Shape: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form small balls from the potato mixture. Aim for golf ball-sized portions; this ensures even cooking and delightful bites.
Coat Those Balls: Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated. This step is crucial for creating that satisfying crispy exterior we all love.
Heat It Up: In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking—about 350°F (175°C) is ideal. A good test is to drop in a breadcrumb; if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready to fry.
Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully add the coated potato balls to the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Drain and Serve**: Remove the crispy mashed potato cheese puffs from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. zucchini ricotta melts Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce—trust me; ranch or spicy aioli works wonders!
Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful little puffs! Perfectly crispy on the outside and irresistibly cheesy inside, they’re sure to impress anyone lucky enough to snag one from your plate!
You Must Know
- Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the delightful result of a culinary accident
- These golden bites of joy transform leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy snack that your friends will rave about
- Don’t skip the cheese, it’s the secret to their creamy center!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you mix your ingredients. This ensures that your Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs bake perfectly golden and crispy from the get-go. For more inspiration, check out this crispy German potato pancakes recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add herbs like chives and parsley for extra flavor. You can even spice it up with jalapeños if you’re feeling adventurous!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes for that crispy texture again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use cold mashed potatoes for better texture; warm potatoes can lead to gooey puffs
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give each puff room to breathe and crisp up
- Always taste your mixture before shaping; adjust seasoning as needed for maximum flavor!
Creating these Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs was a game-changer at my last dinner party, where they vanished faster than I could serve them!
FAQ
Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, but fresh mashed potatoes yield a better texture and flavor.
What type of cheese works best in these puffs?
Cheddar is fantastic, but mozzarella adds a delightful stretchiness!
How do I prevent my puffs from being soggy?
Ensure your mashed potatoes are well-drained and not too wet before mixing!
Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings (24 puffs) 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful crunch of Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs! These golden-brown bites combine creamy mashed potatoes with gooey cheese, creating a satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether as an appetizer or snack, they’re sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, you’ll be enjoying these irresistible puffs in no time!
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, eggs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Scoop small portions (golf ball-sized) of the mixture and roll into balls.
- Coat each ball in seasoned breadcrumbs until fully covered.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat (about 350°F / 175°C).
- Fry the balls in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 puffs (60g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
