Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe

Easy Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe for Fluffy Bites

Potato lovers rejoice as these cheesy mashed potato puffs bring comfort right to your plate.

Crispy edges and soft centers make this dish irresistible.

Golden-brown and packed with melted cheese, these delightful bites pack serious flavor into every single morsel.

You’ll love how simple ingredients create such a stunning appetizer or side dish.

Each puff delivers a perfect balance of creamy potatoes and sharp cheese notes.

The combination of herbs and cheese transforms ordinary mashed potatoes into something extraordinary.

Serve these at your next gathering and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight.

Why Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs Are So Satisfying

  • These mouthwatering potato puffs work magic at potlucks, family dinners, or as a crowd-favorite appetizer that disappears quickly from the serving plate.
  • Children and adults alike will love the crispy exterior and gooey cheese center, transforming ordinary mashed potatoes into an exciting, bite-sized treat that sneaks in some vegetable goodness.
  • Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can have these golden, cheesy puffs ready in no time, perfect for unexpected guests or last-minute meal companions.

Ingredients for Cheesy Potato Puff Recipe

Main Ingredients:
  • Mashed Potatoes: The creamy base that provides the primary texture and flavor for these delightful puffs.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and help create a light, puffy texture.
  • Cheese: Adds rich, savory flavor and creates a golden, crispy exterior.
Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Salt, Pepper: Enhance the overall taste and bring out the natural flavors of the potatoes.
  • Chives: Provide a mild onion-like flavor and fresh green color to the puffs.
Preparation Ingredients:
  • Butter or Cooking Spray: Prevents the puffs from sticking to the mini muffin tin and helps create a crispy exterior.
  • Sour Cream: Optional side serving that adds a cool, tangy complement to the warm puffs.

How to Bake Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Crank up your oven to a toasty 400°F.

Grab a mini muffin tin and give it a light coating of cooking spray or butter to ensure your potato clouds glide out effortlessly.

Step 2: Create the Potato Mixture

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine your creamy mashed potatoes, whisked eggs, shredded cheese, and finely chopped chives.

Season with a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper.

Stir until the mixture becomes a smooth, dreamy blend that promises deliciousness.

Ingredients:
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Eggs
  • Shredded cheese
  • Chives
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, carefully fill each muffin cup almost to the brim.

Don’t stress about perfection – these little clouds will puff up beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle an extra layer of cheese over the top of each potato cloud.

This creates a mouth-watering golden crust that’ll make everyone’s taste buds dance.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the muffin tin into the preheated oven.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, keeping a watchful eye as they transform into golden, puffy delights.

Look for a beautiful golden-brown color around the 15-minute mark.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the potato clouds to cool for about 5 minutes in the tin.

Gently coax them out using a butter knife.

For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some fresh chives on top.

Serve warm and watch them disappear in seconds!

A dollop of sour cream on the side makes these even more irresistible.

Kitchen Tips for Potato Puff Perfection

  • Generously grease the mini muffin tin with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal of potato puffs without any stubborn residue.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, gruyere, or parmesan to elevate the taste profile and create unique flavor combinations.
  • Ensure mashed potatoes are smooth and not too watery by draining excess liquid or using day-old potatoes for a firmer consistency.
  • Swap regular cheese with dairy-free alternatives and use plant-based eggs to make the recipe suitable for lactose-intolerant or vegan guests.
  • Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizing, which helps create consistent cooking times and ensures each puff looks professionally made.

Best Way to Store and Reheat Potato Puffs

  • Store cooled potato puffs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain texture.
  • Wrap individual puffs tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bag. Freeze for maximum 1 month to preserve flavor and quality.
  • Warm refrigerated puffs at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. Spread on baking sheet in single layer to restore crispy exterior and warm center.
  • Reheat from refrigerated state for 30-45 seconds. Place on microwave-safe plate, cover loosely with paper towel to prevent moisture buildup and maintain crispness.

What Goes with Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

  • Enhance Flavor Pairings
  • Pair Zesty Sour Cream Dip: Create a tangy homemade dip blending sour cream with chopped chives, garlic powder, and a dash of lemon juice for bright, complementary flavors.
  • Match Crisp White Wine: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the richness of the cheesy potato puffs, refreshing the palate between bites.
  • Serve Herb-Roasted Protein: Accompany with roasted chicken or grilled salmon seasoned with rosemary and thyme, which will beautifully balance the creamy potato texture.
  • Add Fresh Salad Contrast: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a crisp, peppery counterpoint to the rich, cheesy potato puffs.

Potato Puff Recipe Twists to Explore

  • Gluten-Free Potato Puffs: Replace regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Vegan Potato Clouds: Swap eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free cheese alternatives like nutritional yeast or vegan cheese shreds for a plant-based version.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Version: Substitute mashed potatoes with riced cauliflower to create a lower-carbohydrate option that's still creamy and satisfying.
  • Spicy Southwest Puffs: Add diced jalapeños, green chiles, and swap chives for cilantro to create a zesty, southwestern-inspired potato puff with extra kick.

FAQs

  • Are these mashed potato puffs good for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare these in advance. Mix the ingredients and fill the muffin tin, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, bake directly from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

  • Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! Instant mashed potatoes work great. Just prepare them according to package instructions and let them cool slightly before mixing with other ingredients. Ensure they’re not too runny to maintain the puff’s structure.

  • What if I don't have chives?

No problem! You can substitute chives with finely chopped green onions or fresh parsley. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs or a pinch of garlic powder can add extra flavor to your potato puffs.

  • Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly. It contains eggs, cheese, and potatoes. Just ensure the cheese you use is made without animal rennet if you follow a strict vegetarian diet.

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Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe

Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Summer’s fresh cucumber tomato avocado salad brings Mediterranean flavors dancing across crisp, colorful ingredients. Cool green herbs and zesty lime dressing create perfect balance for light, refreshing meal companions.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Vegetables:

  • 2 cups (473 ml) diced cucumbers
  • 2 cups (473 ml) diced ripe tomatoes
  • 1 cup (237 ml) diced ripe avocado
  • 1/4 cup (59 ml) thinly sliced red onion

Herbs and Aromatics:

  • 1/4 cup (59 ml) chopped fresh cilantro

Dressing and Seasonings:

  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Meticulously cleanse and slice cucumbers, tomatoes, and avocados into uniform, bite-sized cubes for optimal texture and presentation.
  2. Transfer chopped vegetables into a spacious mixing vessel, ensuring gentle handling to maintain ingredient integrity.
  3. Incorporate thinly sliced red onion into the vegetable medley, distributing evenly for balanced flavor distribution.
  4. Liberally scatter freshly chopped cilantro across the salad, allowing the vibrant herb to enhance the overall sensory experience.
  5. Create a light, zesty dressing by drizzling premium extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice over the vegetable ensemble.
  6. Season the salad with premium sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting quantities to personal taste preferences.
  7. Delicately fold ingredients together using a soft spatula, ensuring ingredients are thoroughly integrated without compromising the avocado’s delicate structure.
  8. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and develop a harmonious taste profile.
  9. Plate the salad immediately before serving, garnishing with additional cilantro leaves for visual appeal and aromatic enhancement.

Notes

  • Keep avocados perfectly ripe by checking for slight give when gently pressed, ensuring creamy texture without browning.
  • Prevent soggy salad by adding salt just before serving and draining excess liquid from chopped vegetables.
  • Enhance flavor by letting salad rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, allowing herbs and dressing to meld together.
  • Create gluten-free and vegan-friendly version by using fresh ingredients and ensuring all components meet dietary requirements.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Developing accessible single-serving recipes, Food writing and content creation, Plant-based and allergen-friendly cooking, Culinary education and workshop facilitation

Education

​Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)
Diploma in Culinary Arts

Specialized in plant-based cooking and sustainable kitchen practices.​

Portland Community College
Certificate in Food Writing and Media

Focused on recipe writing, food photography, and digital content creation.​


Clara’s food journey began with a curiosity for color, texture, and ingredients pulled straight from the garden. Her background in plant-forward cooking and creative writing gives her a unique edge – she makes healthy, flavorful food feel inviting, not intimidating.
She specializes in meals that work for busy lives and different diets, all without sacrificing taste. Clara’s voice comes through in every recipe she writes – clear, kind, and encouraging.

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