Do you have leftover mashed potatoes from last night’s dinner? Turn them into a delectable new dish with our Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs. These cheesy, crispy puffs are a fantastic way to give new life to those extra mashed potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a tasty appetizer, a delightful side dish, or a savory snack, these cheese puffs fit the bill perfectly. Serve them alongside roasted meats or enjoy them on their own as a delightful finger food.
Ingredients:
3 cups mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite melting cheese)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chives
1/3 cup sour cream
Salt to taste
2 eggs, beaten
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a muffin tin to ensure easy removal of the puffs after baking.
In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the sour cream until well combined.
Add the shredded cheese, Parmesan cheese, chives, and salt to the bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.
Fold in the mashed potatoes until everything is evenly combined. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.
Spoon the mixture into the greased muffin tin, filling each cup to the top to ensure you get nice, puffed-up puffs.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and puffed up beautifully.
Allow to cool slightly before removing from the muffin tin to avoid breaking the puffs.
Serving Tips:
As an Appetizer: Serve these cheese puffs warm, straight from the oven. Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, sour cream, or a spicy aioli for extra flavor.
As a Side Dish: These puffs make a great accompaniment to main dishes. Try them with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
As a Snack: Enjoy these puffs on their own as a quick and satisfying snack. They are perfect for a mid-day pick-me-up or as a fun addition to a snack platter.
Garnish: Top with a sprinkle of fresh chives or a bit of extra Parmesan cheese just before serving for added flavor and a touch of elegance.
Presentation: Arrange the puffs on a serving platter or in a basket lined with parchment paper for a casual, rustic presentation.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the puffs after they have cooled completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating from Frozen: To reheat frozen puffs, place them directly on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Avoiding Sogginess: To prevent the puffs from becoming soggy, avoid storing them in a sealed container while they are still warm. Let them cool completely before sealing in an airtight container.
Reviving Crispy Texture: If the puffs lose their crispiness, you can restore it by reheating them in an oven or toaster oven instead of a microwave.
Related Recipes:
- Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potato Frosting
- Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
- Cream Cheese Spinach Puffs
FAQs:
Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you don’t have any homemade leftovers. Just make sure they are well-seasoned and have a thick consistency. You might need to adjust the amount of flour to achieve the right texture.
What other cheeses can I use besides cheddar and mozzarella?
You can use a variety of cheeses depending on your taste preferences. Gouda, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses will work well. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor.
Can I make these cheese puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the puffs and then store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheat them in the oven before serving to restore their crispiness.
How can I make these puffs gluten-free?
To make these puffs gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your mashed potatoes and other ingredients are also gluten-free. This will maintain the texture and taste while accommodating dietary restrictions.
Conclusion:
These Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious and versatile way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, they’re easy to make and sure to please. Enjoy them fresh from the oven for the best flavor and texture.
📖 Recipe:
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Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 puffs
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into delicious, cheesy puffs that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. These versatile treats are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, and they’re easy to make with simple ingredients you already have at home.
Ingredients
3 cups mashed potatoes
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite melting cheese)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chives
1/3 cup sour cream
Salt to taste
2 eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a muffin tin.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the sour cream until well combined.
- Add the shredded cheese, Parmesan cheese, chives, and salt. Mix thoroughly.
- Fold in the mashed potatoes until evenly combined.
- Spoon the mixture into the greased muffin tin, filling each cup to the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until tops are golden brown and puffed up.
- Allow to cool slightly before removing from the muffin tin.
Notes
Use well-seasoned mashed potatoes for the best flavor.
Customize with add-ins like cooked bacon bits, caramelized onions, or diced jalapeños.
To reheat, place in a preheated oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 puffs
- Calories: 150 kcal
