Easy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs

These mashed potato cheese puffs are the answer to leftover mashed potatoes or whenever you crave a comforting bite that is crispy outside and creamy inside. They come together with just a few staple ingredients and bake up into golden savory puffs that disappear quickly at family gatherings and weeknight dinners alike.

The first time I baked a batch for a holiday brunch there were no leftovers and now my family requests them for cozy Sunday breakfasts and holiday parties.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Mashed potatoes: Chilled helps them hold together for the best puffed texture
• Shredded cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella both melt smoothly and add a gooey center
• All-purpose flour: Helps bind the mixture and gives structure to the puffs gluten-free flour works if needed
• Parmesan cheese: For extra flavor and a hint of sharpness
• Fresh chives: Bring color and a mild onion note always use firm vibrant chives
• Sour cream: Adds creamy tang and moisture full-fat works best
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors use flaky sea salt or fine kosher salt for even seasoning
• Eggs: Help hold everything together and give a lift to the puffs use large fresh eggs

How to Make It

Prepare the Pan:

Lightly grease a muffin tin making sure to coat each cup evenly so the puffs don’t stick and bake up with nice crispy edges

Combine Eggs and Sour Cream:

In a large mixing bowl whisk together eggs and sour cream until very smooth and creamy this is the secret to a fluffy interior

Mix in Cheese and Chives:

Add in the freshly shredded cheese Parmesan and finely chopped chives stir well until all ingredients are evenly distributed for balanced flavor in every bite

Fold in Mashed Potatoes:

Gently add chilled mashed potatoes to the bowl fold them in with a spatula careful not to over-mix so the puffs stay light and airy

Add Flour and Salt:

Sprinkle flour and salt evenly over the mixture fold again just until combined the texture should be thick but scoopable

Fill Muffin Tin:

Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the prepared muffin cups filling each about three-quarters full so there is room for them to puff and brown

Bake and Cool:

Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about twenty to twenty-five minutes until the tops are golden and the edges look set allow to cool for a few minutes in the tin before unmolding

Remove and Serve:

Carefully lift each puff from the muffin tin and transfer to a wire rack or serving tray serve warm and watch them disappear

Chives are always my favorite touch they make every bite more vibrant and fresh My kids love to sprinkle extra cheese on top and we always end up eating them straight from the oven laughing together around the kitchen island

Flavor Boosters

For extra flavor sprinkle a little flaky salt or smoked paprika on top before baking or mix in a sharp cheese like gouda or pepper jack for a bold twist. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also be added to the batter for more depth.

Serving Suggestions

Pile them into a bread basket for holiday brunch serve alongside soup as a comfort food dinner or dunk in spicy ketchup or ranch for a snack. Kids love dipping these in honey mustard sauce for an after-school treat.

Creative Twists

Add finely chopped cooked bacon for a winter party or mix in scallions and fresh thyme when chives are not in season. Shape mini puffs for appetizers at summer picnics or layer different cheeses for a playful flavor profile.

No matter how you serve them these puffs always bring smiles to the table. Try a new mix-in each time and make them your signature happy bite.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of cheese works best for the puffs?

Cheddar and mozzarella are excellent choices for melting, while Parmesan adds a nice sharpness. You can mix cheeses to balance flavor and texture.

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to make the puffs suitable for gluten-free diets without affecting the texture much.

→ How do I prevent the puffs from sticking to the muffin tin?

Lightly grease the muffin tin or use non-stick spray before filling the cups to ensure easy removal after baking.

→ Is it better to use chilled mashed potatoes?

Chilled mashed potatoes hold their shape better during mixing and baking, helping the puffs maintain a nice texture.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and bake just before serving to enjoy fresh, warm puffs.