Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

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Introduction

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate breakfast treat, combining creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and fluffy eggs into irresistible, golden-brown bites. Perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, these puffs make for a hearty, flavorful start to your day. They are kid-friendly, easy to make, and can be customized with your favorite seasonings and add-ins. Whether served as a quick weekday breakfast, a special weekend brunch, or a grab-and-go snack, these savory puffs will become a morning favorite.

I remember the first time I made these for a weekend brunch with friends. The aroma of cheesy potatoes baking in the oven filled the kitchen, and as soon as I served them, they disappeared in minutes. Everyone loved the contrast between the crispy exterior and the creamy, cheesy interior. What’s great about these mashed potato puffs is how versatile they are—you can mix in chopped bacon, green onions, or even a touch of garlic for extra flavor. They pair wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for a little kick.

The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a muffin tin, you can transform leftover mashed potatoes into a show-stopping dish. Whether you’re planning a cozy family breakfast or need a crowd-pleasing appetizer for a gathering, Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are guaranteed to be a hit!

Perfect for:

  • Breakfast and brunch
  • Meal prep or on-the-go mornings
  • Family-friendly meals
  • Comfort food lovers
  • Cheese enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a breakfast must-have:

  • Cheesy Goodness: Each puff is packed with melty, gooey cheese for ultimate satisfaction.
  • Crispy and Creamy: A golden, crisp exterior gives way to a creamy, fluffy center.
  • Customizable Flavors: Add your favorite herbs, spices, and veggies for a personalized twist.
  • Kid-Friendly: A fun way to get kids excited about breakfast.
  • Great for Leftovers: Perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 12 puffs
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 100-150 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 6g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:

Base Ingredients:

  • 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared without pork or bacon fat)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
  • ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • ¼ cup green onions or chives, finely chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Diced bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms
  • Grated zucchini (squeeze out excess moisture)
  • Fresh spinach, finely chopped

Ingredient Highlights

  • Mashed Potatoes: The creamy base for these fluffy bites. Use fresh or leftover mashed potatoes.
  • Cheese: Adds richness and gooey texture to every bite.
  • Eggs: Helps bind the mixture while adding fluffiness.
  • Greek Yogurt: Boosts creaminess and adds a subtle tang.
  • Herbs and Seasonings: Elevate the flavor with garlic, onion powder, and fresh green onions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:

Prepare the Mixture:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or line with silicone muffin cups.
  2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, eggs, shredded cheese, Greek yogurt, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Add Optional Veggies: If using any add-ins like bell peppers or spinach, fold them into the mixture.

Assemble and Bake:

  1. Fill the Muffin Cups: Scoop the potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon.
  2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and slightly puffed.
  3. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let the puffs cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Serve Warm: Serve the puffs warm for breakfast or brunch, garnished with additional green onions or a dollop of yogurt.

How to Serve

  • With a Side of Fruit: Pair with fresh fruit or a smoothie for a balanced breakfast.
  • For Brunch: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, roasted veggies, or a simple salad.
  • On the Go: Pack these puffs in a container for a portable breakfast or snack.
  • With Dipping Sauces: Offer sour cream, salsa, or a light cheese sauce for dipping.

Additional Tips

  • Use cold, firm mashed potatoes for the best texture.
  • Shred your own cheese for better melting (pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents).
  • Grease the muffin tin well to ensure the puffs release easily.
  • These puffs taste great at room temperature, making them ideal for meal prep.

Recipe Variations

  1. Herb and Cheese Puffs: Add fresh parsley, dill, or thyme.
  2. Vegetable Puffs: Incorporate grated carrots or sautéed zucchini.
  3. Spicy Puffs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
  4. Gluten-Free Puffs: Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
  5. Vegan Puffs: Use mashed potatoes made with plant-based milk and butter, vegan cheese, and egg substitutes.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Allow the puffs to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Special Equipment

  • Muffin tin
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes? Yes, as long as they are firm and well-seasoned.
  2. Can I make these dairy-free? Yes, use dairy-free cheese and yogurt.
  3. Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, just use a second muffin tin.
  4. Are these freezer-friendly? Yes, they freeze and reheat well.
  5. Can I skip the eggs? Use flax eggs or an egg replacer.

Conclusion

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delicious way to elevate simple ingredients into a show-stopping dish. With their crispy, golden edges and creamy, cheesy centers, these puffs are the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!

This recipe is as versatile as it is tasty, allowing endless customization with your favorite cheeses, herbs, or add-ins like bacon or veggies. Serve them fresh and warm for the best experience, or prepare them ahead as a convenient meal-prep option for busy mornings.

I’d love to see how your Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!

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