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.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 puffs 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Gluten Free
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)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Serving Size: 3 puffs
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs, savory snack, crispy cheese puffs, easy appetizer, gluten-free cheese snack, cheesy mashed potato bites