Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs (Printable Version)

Crispy golden puffs featuring fluffy mashed potatoes blended with sharp cheddar and herbs, baked to perfection.

# What You'll Need:

→ Mashed Potato Base

01 - 2 cups mashed potatoes (approximately 3 medium potatoes, peeled and boiled)
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1/4 cup whole milk
04 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Cheese and Mix-ins

05 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
06 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 2 large eggs, beaten
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
09 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

→ Baking Components

10 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
11 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

# Directions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
02 - If starting from raw potatoes, peel and boil 3 medium potatoes until tender. Drain thoroughly and mash with 2 tablespoons butter and 1/4 cup milk. Season with salt and pepper, then allow to cool slightly. If using leftover mashed potatoes, simply warm them slightly for easier mixing.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, beaten eggs, chopped chives, smoked paprika, and flour. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture is smooth and cohesive.
04 - Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, portion the mixture into 12 equal mounds on the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for even cooking and slight expansion.
05 - Brush the tops of each puff generously with the melted butter. This step promotes even browning and creates a beautifully golden, appetizing crust.
06 - Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The puffs are done when they achieve a deep golden-brown color, appear puffed and set, and feel firm to the touch.
07 - Remove from the oven and allow the puffs to cool on the baking sheet for 3 to 5 minutes. This brief resting period helps them set slightly for easier handling. Serve warm, optionally accompanied by sour cream for dipping.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Transforms humble mashed potatoes into something that feels like a treat from a bakery
  • They freeze beautifully, so you can always have homemade comfort food ready
  • The outside gets beautifully crisp while staying impossibly fluffy inside
02 -
  • Make sure your mashed potatoes arent hot when adding the eggs or they might start to cook
  • Scooping directly from the same spot each time ensures uniform sizing for even baking
  • The puffs will collapse slightly as they cool, which is completely normal
03 -
  • Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top before baking for extra crunch
  • Adding crispy bacon bits transforms these into an entirely different indulgent experience

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