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Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs combine creamy, well-seasoned mashed potatoes with melted cheddar and a crispy golden Parmesan crust, creating a delightful snack that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. These puffs offer a fluffy interior with a crunchy exterior, customizable with various cheeses, herbs, and spices to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Mashed Potato Base

  • 3 cups smooth, well-seasoned mashed potatoes (preferably made with Russet potatoes)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheese and Herbs

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for coating)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (chopped chives or parsley)

Binding Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
  • 1/4 cup additional breadcrumbs (optional, for coating)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Start by boiling and mashing potatoes until smooth. Mix in butter, salt, and pepper to achieve a creamy but firm mashed potato base suitable for shaping.
  2. Mix in Cheese and Herbs: Fold the shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped fresh herbs into the mashed potatoes, ensuring even distribution for flavor in every bite.
  3. Add Eggs and Binding Ingredients: Incorporate beaten eggs and flour or breadcrumbs to bind the mixture, creating a dough-like consistency that will hold its shape during cooking.
  4. Shape the Puffs: Using your hands or a spoon, form small balls or oval-shaped puffs, compacting the mixture well to prevent falling apart while cooking.
  5. Coat with Parmesan and Optional Bread Crumbs: Roll each puff in grated Parmesan cheese and, if desired, breadcrumbs to create a golden, crunchy crust when baked or fried.
  6. Bake or Fry Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat oil for frying. Place the puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or fry until the exterior is crisp and golden brown.

Notes

  • Use starchy potatoes like Russets for best fluffy texture and binding.
  • Do not overmix the mixture to maintain lightness in the puffs.
  • Chill the shaped puffs in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
  • Mix different cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for varied flavor and creaminess.
  • Use a preheated oven or hot oil to achieve an immediate crispy crust and avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, savory snack, crispy cheese puffs, easy appetizer, gluten-free cheese snack, cheesy mashed potato bites