Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate way to breathe new life into leftover mashed potatoes. These golden, crispy-on-the-outside, creamy-on-the-inside bites are baked in muffin tins and loaded with cheese, eggs, and savory add-ins like chives or bacon. Think of them as a cross between mashed potatoes and savory soufflés—light, fluffy, and packed with flavor. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or brunch item, they’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and totally addictive.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made, room temperature)
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup bacon bits (optional, cooked and crumbled)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh chives or green onions
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Butter or nonstick spray (for greasing muffin tin)
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, beaten eggs, cheddar cheese, bacon bits (if using), chives, and black pepper.
- Stir until everything is evenly incorporated. The mixture should be thick and scoopable.
3. Fill the Muffin Tin
- Spoon the potato mixture into each muffin cup, filling them just to the top.
- Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on each puff for a crispy, cheesy crust.
4. Bake Until Golden
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly puffed.
- Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before gently removing with a spoon or offset spatula.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve warm as a side dish, snack, or appetizer.
- Optional: top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra chives for garnish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad.
- Serve as a brunch side with eggs and sausage.
- Offer as finger food at parties with dipping sauces like ranch or spicy aioli.
Variations & Tips:
- Cheese swap: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for different flavor profiles.
- Add veggies: Mix in finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
- Mini version: Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized puffs—perfect for parties!
Time & Yield:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
- Yield: 12 puffs
- Calories: ~115 per puff
Would you like a version of this recipe with sweet potatoes or a vegan twist? I can also help you turn this into a freezer-friendly make-ahead snack!