If you’re anything like me, you know there’s something irresistible about mashed potatoes. But what if I told you that you could transform those creamy, comforting mashed potatoes into crispy, cheesy snacks? That’s exactly what this recipe does, and trust me, it’s nothing short of amazing. Whether you’re craving a quick snack, a light meal, or a fun appetizer to serve at your next gathering, these crispy mashed potato puffs are sure to hit the spot.
What’s so great about these little puffs is how easy they are to make. You’ll be able to take leftover mashed potatoes (or freshly made ones) and give them a whole new life. With the addition of gooey cheese, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and just the right amount of seasoning, these bites become something special. You’ll be amazed at how they puff up in the oven or pan, giving you that perfect crispy outside while staying fluffy and cheesy on the inside. It’s comfort food taken to a whole new level!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these crispy, cheesy puffs:
3 cups mashed potatoes – This is the base of the recipe! You can use leftover mashed potatoes, or make them fresh.
1 cup all-purpose flour – Flour helps bind everything together and gives the puffs a nice structure.
2 tablespoons chopped green onions – For a little kick and burst of color.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – This adds a sharp, nutty flavor that really complements the mashed potatoes.
1/4 cup sour cream – For a touch of creaminess and richness.
Sea salt – A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors.
2 large eggs (whisked) – These help bind the mixture and give the puffs a nice texture as they cook.
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness!) – You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese that you love.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your
Ingredients
Gather all your
Ingredients
and get ready to make something delicious. In a large bowl, combine your mashed potatoes with the flour, Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream, and a pinch of sea salt. This mixture should be nice and smooth, but not too sticky. If your mashed potatoes are a little on the wet side, feel free to add a little more flour to get the right consistency.
Step 2: Add the Eggs
Next, crack two eggs into the mixture and whisk them well. The eggs help hold everything together and give the puffs that perfect texture when they cook. Stir everything together until it’s fully combined.
Step 3: Shape the Puffs
Now comes the fun part! Take a spoonful of the mixture and roll it into small balls or press it down to form little patties. They don’t have to be perfect, so don’t stress about the shape too much. The beauty of this recipe is how simple and forgiving it is.
Step 4: Cooking Time – Oven or Pan Fry
There are two ways you can cook these puffs: baking or frying. Both methods give you crispy, golden puffs, so the choice is yours!
To bake:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the mashed potato puffs on the sheet, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re crispy and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly as they bake, and soon you’ll be enjoying these crunchy little bites.
To fry:
If you prefer to fry them, heat up some oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently drop the puffs in, cooking them in small batches. Fry each puff for 3-4 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Don’t forget to place the cooked puffs on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once they’re done cooking, it’s time to serve! You can enjoy them just as they are, or serve them with your favorite dipping sauce. I personally love them with a little ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or even some ketchup if I’m feeling nostalgic. Either way, they’re guaranteed to disappear in no time.
Notes
Make-Ahead Tip: You can make the puffs ahead of time and store them in the fridge before baking or frying. Just shape the mixture into balls, cover them, and refrigerate for up to a day before cooking.
Cheese Variety: Feel free to get creative with the cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses all work beautifully in this recipe. If you like a little more tang, try adding a bit of cream cheese or a sharp cheese like Gruyère.
Herbs and Spices: Add more flavor by including herbs like parsley, basil, or even thyme. A pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika can give them an extra kick.
Baking vs. Frying: Baking is a slightly healthier option, but frying gives the puffs that extra crispy crunch. You can also opt to bake them in a non-stick spray-coated muffin tin to give them a little extra height.
Nutrition
Calories: 120
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 350mg
Additional Information
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Image credit goes to the amazing creator. 🙏
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