Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs: A Deliciously Cheesy Snack Recipe

Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any table. As a lover of all things cheesy and fluffy, I can’t help but be excited about this recipe. Originating from the French dish “Pommes Dauphine,” these puffs combine the creamy texture of mashed potatoes with the rich flavor of cheese, creating a snack that is both indulgent and satisfying. People adore Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs not only for their irresistible taste but also for their crispy exterior and soft, cheesy interior. They are perfect for parties, as a side dish, or even as a quick snack. Trust me, once you try these puffs, they will become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of mashed potatoes (preferably leftover)
• 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
• 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of paprika (optional, for a little kick)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional, such as chives or parsley)

Preparing the Mixture

Let’s get started on these delicious mashed potato cheese puffs! First, I gather all my ingredients and make sure my mashed potatoes are ready. If you don’t have any leftover mashed potatoes, you can easily make some fresh ones. Just boil about 2-3 medium-sized potatoes until they are fork-tender, then mash them with a bit of butter, milk, salt, and pepper.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of mashed potatoes with the shredded cheese. I like to use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect gooey texture.
2. Add in the 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and the egg. The egg acts as a binder, helping everything stick together.
3. Next, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika if you’re using it. These spices add a wonderful flavor to the puffs.
4. Using a spatula or your hands, mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick and hold together when you form it into a ball. If it feels too wet, you can add a little more flour.

Shaping the Puffs

Now that we have our mixture ready, it’s time to shape our cheese puffs!

1. With clean hands, take a small amount of the mixture (about 1-2 tablespoons) and roll it into a ball. You can also shape them into small patties if you prefer.
2. Place the shaped puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will make it easier to transfer them to the frying pan later.
3. Continue shaping the rest of the mixture until it’s all used up. You should have about 15-20 puffs, depending on the size you make them.

Cooking Process

Now comes the fun part—frying these little bites of joy!

1. In a large skillet, pour enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about 1/2 inch. Heat the oil over medium heat. You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of the mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
2. Carefully add a few puffs to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. I usually fry them in batches of 4-5 at a time.
3. Fry the puffs for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to flip them gently.
4. Once they are cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
5. Repeat the frying process with the remaining puffs until they are all cooked. Make sure to keep an eye on the oil temperature; if it gets too hot, lower the heat slightly.

Assembling and Serving

Now that our mashed potato cheese puffs are perfectly golden and crispy, it’s time to serve them up!

1. Transfer the puffs to a serving platter. If you want to add a little extra flair, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley on top.
2. These puffs are best served warm, so I like to enjoy them right away. They pair

Conclusion:

In summary, these Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their comfort food game. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese creates a delightful texture and flavor that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish at a family gathering, a fun appetizer for a party, or even a tasty snack for movie night, these puffs are sure to impress. Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions! You can pair them with a zesty dipping sauce, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color, or even add crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different types of cheese or adding in some sautéed vegetables for a unique twist. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how your Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs turn out and any variations you come up with. Cooking is all about having fun and making it your own, so don’t hesitate to put your personal spin on it. Happy cooking!

Print