Indulge in the crispy goodness of Crispy Cheddar Mashed Potato Puffs, a delightful twist on classic mashed potatoes. This recipe combines the comforting taste of mashed potatoes with the satisfying crunch of a puff, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish for any occasion.
What are potato puffs made of? Potato puffs are typically made from mashed potatoes, eggs, cheese, and a few additional ingredients to add flavor and texture. They are often baked or fried until golden brown and crispy. Unlike tater tots, which are made from grated potatoes, What’s the difference between potato puffs and tater tots? potato puffs are made from mashed potatoes, giving them a smooth and creamy interior.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Crispy Cheddar Mashed Potato Puffs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably cold and leftover)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup chopped chives
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying (if frying instead of baking)
- Sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce for serving
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of crispy potato puffs:
Preparing the Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. The mixture should be thick and hold its shape when scooped.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the mixture will help the puffs hold their shape during cooking.
Shaping the Puffs
- Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer: If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If using an air fryer, preheat it according to the manufacturer’s instructions for mashed potato puffs air fryer.
- Shape the Puffs: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, shape the potato mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet or air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each puff.
Cooking the Puffs
- Bake or Air Fry: For baked puffs, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. For air fryer puffs, cook for 10-15 minutes or until crispy, shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
- Fry (Optional): If frying, heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Fry the puffs in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Serving
- Serve Hot: Serve the crispy cheddar mashed potato puffs immediately, garnished with additional chives if desired, and with a side of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips and Variations
- How to make sticky mashed potatoes fluffy? Ensure your mashed potatoes are well-mashed and not too sticky. Add a little flour or breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture if needed.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, parmesan, or gouda, for a unique flavor twist.
- Add-ins: Customize your puffs by adding cooked bacon bits, chopped green onions, or diced jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Leftover Mashed Potato Puffs: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes. Adjust the seasoning to taste if your leftovers are already seasoned.
- Old Fashioned Potato Puffs: For a classic taste, add a pinch of nutmeg to the mixture, which is a traditional addition in some old-fashioned recipes.
Nutritional Information
Here is the approximate nutritional information per serving (based on a recipe yielding 12 puffs):
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 4g
Conclusion
These Crispy Cheddar Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful way to enjoy leftover mashed potatoes. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or a side dish, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try experimenting with different cheeses and add-ins to make the recipe your own.