Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for brushing)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Potato Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, eggs, flour, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin

• Spoon the potato mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
• Brush the tops with melted butter for a golden crust.

Step 4: Bake the Puffs

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
• Allow the puffs to cool in the tin for a few minutes before carefully removing them with a butter knife.

Step 5: Serve

• Serve the cheesy mashed potato puffs warm, garnished with extra chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Mashed Potatoes: The mashed potatoes should be well seasoned. If using leftovers, make sure they’re not too dry—adding a splash of milk can help if needed.
• Cheese: You can use any cheese you like, but cheddar works best for a classic flavor. You can also add a bit of mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
• Non-Stick Muffin Tin: Be sure to grease the muffin tin well to make it easier to remove the puffs after baking.

Recipe Variations

• Bacon Cheddar Puffs: Add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the potato mixture for a savory bacon twist.
• Herb & Garlic Puffs: Add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary and increase the garlic powder for an extra herbaceous flavor.
• Spicy Puffs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy version of these puffs.