Description

These Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs combine creamy mashed potatoes with melted cheddar cheese and a golden, crispy breadcrumb exterior. Perfect as a comforting snack or appetizer, they can be fried or baked to perfection and customized with herbs, spices, or different cheeses. Enjoy a delightful contrast of textures with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

2 cups creamy mashed potatoes (preferably day-old, cooled)
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
2 large eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons melted butter
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Coating

1 cup breadcrumbs (can use gluten free if needed)

Optional Flavorings

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives
Optional: 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped or 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (for spicy kick)
Optional: 1 tsp chopped rosemary, thyme, or dill (for herb infusion)

Instructions

Prepare Your Mashed Potatoes: Begin with well-cooked and smooth mashed potatoes that are creamy but not watery, using starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold. Let them cool slightly or use leftover mashed potatoes for better shaping.
Mix in Cheese and Binding Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with grated cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Add optional herbs or spices if desired. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are incorporated.
Shape and Coat the Puffs: Scoop the mixture into small portions, forming tight balls or ovals about 1-2 inches in size. Roll each shaped puff thoroughly in breadcrumbs to cover the surface, creating a crispy crust when cooked.
Fry or Bake to Golden Perfection: For frying, heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and deep-fry the puffs until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes). Alternatively, bake the puffs on a lined tray in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Cool and Serve: Remove the cooked puffs and let them cool slightly on a wire rack to maintain their crispiness. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces or enjoy them plain.

Notes

Use day-old or chilled mashed potatoes for better shape and less sogginess.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the puffs light and airy inside.
Use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon to make uniformly sized puffs for even cooking.
Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) during frying to avoid greasy puffs.
Drain fried puffs well on paper towels or wire racks to retain crispiness.
Freeze uncooked puffs on a tray until firm, then store in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Reheat using an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispness; avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 3 puffs
Calories: 180
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: mashed potato puffs, cheesy snacks, potato appetizers, crispy cheese balls, finger food