Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate combination of comfort and convenience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a quick snack for the family, or spicing up leftovers, these fluffy, cheesy puffs are sure to please. They’re easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, making them perfect for any occasion. If you’re a fan of crispy, golden brown edges with a soft, cheesy interior, this is the recipe for you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a fantastic way to elevate simple mashed potatoes into something fun and exciting. Not only are they bite-sized, but they also feature a crisp exterior and creamy interior packed with the flavors of Monterey Jack cheese and fresh chives. Whether you’re planning a holiday party or simply looking for a snack that everyone will love, these puffs will fit the bill. Best of all, they’re ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients for Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Here’s a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need to make these cheesy bites. Stick to the measurements to ensure perfect results:

3 large eggs, beaten – The eggs help bind the mixture and create a fluffy texture.
2 cups mashed potatoes (at room temperature) – Leftover mashed potatoes are perfect for this recipe.
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided) – Provides a creamy, melty cheese flavor.
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives – Adds a pop of freshness and color.
Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances the flavors of the potatoes and cheese.
Sour cream for serving (optional) – A dollop on top adds a creamy and tangy contrast.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

24-cup mini muffin tin – This will help form the perfect bite-sized puffs.
Mixing bowls – For combining all the ingredients.
Whisk or fork – To beat the eggs and mix the ingredients.
Spoon or small scoop – For portioning the potato mixture into the muffin tin.
Butter knife or offset spatula – To gently remove the puffs from the tin after baking.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Follow these simple steps to make these delicious Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with cooking spray or oil and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, beaten eggs, 3/4 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and chopped chives. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Scoop the potato mixture into the prepared mini muffin tin cups, filling each one almost to the top. A small cookie scoop or spoon works perfectly for this step to ensure even portions.
Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheese on top of each puff for a cheesy finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and slightly puffed. The edges should be crispy, while the centers remain soft and tender.
Allow the puffs to cool for 5 minutes, then use a butter knife or spatula to carefully lift them out of the muffin tin.
Serve warm, garnished with extra chives and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy your fluffy, cheesy puffs!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the potato mixture: Stir the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can result in dense, rubbery puffs instead of light and fluffy ones.
Not greasing the muffin tin properly: Be sure to lightly grease the mini muffin tin to prevent the puffs from sticking. If they stick, it will be difficult to remove them without breaking.
Using cold mashed potatoes: Make sure your mashed potatoes are at room temperature before mixing. Cold potatoes can lead to uneven baking and dense puffs.
Skipping the cooling step: Letting the puffs cool for a few minutes makes it easier to remove them from the tin without breaking them apart.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Make sure the mashed potatoes are smooth and lump-free to ensure an even, airy texture.
Don’t overfill the muffin cups—leave a little room for the puffs to rise.
For extra crispy edges, you can bake the puffs for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning the cheese on top.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

Want to get creative with this recipe? Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Swap out the cheese – While Monterey Jack cheese is wonderfully melty, you can use cheddar, mozzarella, or even gouda for a different flavor.
Add bacon – For a savory twist, mix in some cooked, crumbled bacon to the potato mixture before baking.
Herb variations – Experiment with herbs like parsley, thyme, or green onions instead of chives for a different flavor profile.
Spicy kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a bit of heat.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For an eye-catching presentation, garnish the Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs with extra chopped chives or finely grated cheese. Serve them on a platter with small bowls of sour cream or a creamy dipping sauce on the side. These puffs make an ideal appetizer for parties, but they can also be served as a fun side dish alongside a salad or soup for a casual meal.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (although they’re so delicious, that might not be the case!), here’s how to store them:

Refrigerating: Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-8 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but they may lose their crispiness.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked puffs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.

FAQ About Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes can be used, but make sure they are thick and not too runny.

Can I make these puffs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the potato mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the puffs and reheat them when ready to serve.

How can I make the puffs extra crispy?
To get an extra crispy finish, bake the puffs for a few additional minutes, or use a nonstick muffin tin with a light spray of oil on top of each puff.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are an irresistible treat that can be enjoyed at any time. Their creamy, cheesy interior and crispy edges make them a crowd-pleaser that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a snack, a side dish, or an appetizer, this recipe will hit the spot. If you try this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes like this one.