Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Instructions: Let’s Make Some Puffs!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheeses, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
5. Dip each potato ball in flour, then eggs, then breadcrumbs, ensuring complete coverage.
6. Return the coated balls to the baking sheet. Drizzle with vegetable oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and serve!

Serve warm for the best gooey cheese and crispy exterior experience!

Expert Tips for Perfectly Puffy Potatoes

• Ensure your mashed potatoes are well-seasoned before starting.
• Wet your hands to prevent the potato mixture from sticking when shaping the balls.
• Use one hand for dipping, the other for rolling in the coating for efficiency.
• For extra crispy puffs, brush with melted butter instead of oil before baking.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add cooked bacon or diced ham for a savory twist.
• Spice things up with chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations (mozzarella and Gruyère, anyone?).
• For a vegetarian option, add sautéed onions or mushrooms.

Serving Suggestions

• As a side dish: Pair with roasted chicken, steak, or your favorite main course.
• As an appetizer: Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or sour cream and chives.
• As a party snack: A perfect addition to any gathering!

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I freeze these? Yes! Freeze unbaked puffs, then bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Can I use leftover mashed potatoes? Absolutely! Make sure they’re well-chilled and seasoned.
• Can I make them ahead? While best fresh, you can bake them ahead, cool completely, refrigerate, and reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate comfort food – crispy, creamy, and cheesy perfection! They’re sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!