Work some magic on your mashed potatoes with mashed potato puffs! These loaded potato puffs are the perfect way to breathe new life into your leftover mashed potatoes. They’re crispy, golden bites of goodness that are so versatile you’ll want to make them for every occasion. Plus, they’re quick to whip up and customizable to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing snacks for cozy movie night, or craving a hearty bite during your lunch break, mashed potato puffs are here to impress. Pair them with dipping sauces like Peri Peri Sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
What Are Mashed Potato Puffs?
Mashed potato puffs are a delicious and creative twist on traditional mashed potatoes. Essentially, they’re fluffy, baked or fried balls of mashed potatoes, elevated with mix-ins like cheese, bacon, and herbs. Unlike croquettes, which are typically breaded and deep-fried, mashed potato puffs focus on lightness and flavor. These versatile treats are perfect alongside dishes like Parmesan truffle fries for a satisfying snack spread.
Originating from the idea of reducing food waste, mashed potato puffs have grown in popularity as a go-to dish for repurposing leftovers. The charm lies in their adaptability: you can make them simple and classic or gourmet with unique flavor profiles.
Why Make Mashed Potato Puffs?
Key Benefits
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients, you can create something truly special without much effort.
- Great Use of Leftovers: If you’ve ever wondered what to do with leftover mashed potatoes, this is your answer. No more wasting food!
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins, spices, or even a creative sauce to make them uniquely yours.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them as appetizers, snacks, side dishes, or even the main course with the right pairings.
Imagine this: you’ve had a big family dinner, and now you’re staring at a bowl of leftover mashed potatoes. Instead of reheating them as-is, why not transform them into something exciting and delicious? Mashed potato puffs are your secret weapon for turning yesterday’s leftovers into today’s crowd-pleaser. They’re also kid-friendly and an excellent way to sneak in some extra veggies if desired.
These puffs also complement a wide variety of meals. For example, they pair wonderfully with hearty mains like Chilli Con Carne with Macaroni or fresh, light appetizers such as Easy Mediterranean Cucumber Bites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes: Leftovers work great, but fresh mashed potatoes are fine too.
- 3 large eggs, beaten: These help bind everything together and add richness.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: Adds a rich, cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with potatoes.
- 1/4 cup bacon bits: For a smoky, savory touch that enhances every bite.
- 1/4 cup chives, chopped: Fresh chives bring a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
- Pepper to taste: A little seasoning goes a long way to balance the flavors.
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, shredded: Sprinkled on top for a crispy, golden finish that’s simply irresistible.
Optional Additions
- Diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Paprika or garlic powder for added depth and warmth.
- Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill for an earthy flavor.
- A touch of sour cream for added creaminess.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Swap cheddar for gouda, mozzarella, or even gruyere for a different flavor profile.
- Replace bacon bits with crispy turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon alternatives.
- Use gluten-free mashed potatoes and toppings for dietary adjustments.
Tools Required
To make these delicious potato puffs, you’ll need:
- A large mixing bowl for combining ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- A muffin tin or baking sheet for shaping the puffs.
- A spoon or cookie scoop for portioning.
- An oven or air fryer (if baking).
Optional tools include a whisk for beating eggs and a silicone spatula for thorough mixing.
How to Make the Perfect Classic Mashed Potato Puffs
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, eggs, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, chives, and a dash of pepper. Mix until well blended, but avoid overmixing to maintain fluffinescence.
- Portion the Mixture: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to divide the mixture evenly into the muffin tin cups or onto the lined baking sheet. Each portion should be about 2 tablespoons.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese on top of each portion for a crisp, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tops are golden and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. For added flavor, pair them with dipping sauces such as Spicy Tomato Dip.
Delicious Variations of Mashed Potato Puffs
Cheesy Potato Puffs
Add extra cheese to the mix and top with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a gooey, cheesy bite. Perfect for cheese lovers!
Bacon and Herb Potato Puffs
Double the bacon bits and mix in fresh rosemary and parsley for a savory, aromatic twist. These are ideal for brunch gatherings.
Spicy Jalapeño Potato Puffs
Dice fresh jalapeños and mix them into the batter for a spicy kick. Pair with a spicy tomato dip to complement the heat.
Vegetarian-Friendly Potato Puffs
Skip the bacon and load up on veggies like diced bell peppers, corn, or peas for a colorful, healthy option.
Gourmet Truffle Potato Puffs
Add a drizzle of truffle oil and sprinkle with parmesan for an elevated, luxurious version.
Full Nutritional Profile Per Serving
| Nutritional Component | Amount Per Serving | Percent Daily Value (based on 2,000-calorie diet) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 | 6% |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 4% |
| Fat | 7g | 10% |
| Vitamins & Minerals | High in calcium and vitamin C | N/A |
This table provides a clear, concise representation of the nutritional content for mashed potato puffs.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mashed Potato Puffs
- Consistency Matters: Use mashed potatoes that aren’t too runny or too dry. The ideal texture is firm but smooth.
- Don’t Overmix: Combine the ingredients gently to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
- Reheat Like a Pro: Pop leftover puffs in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try new spices or mix-ins to suit your preferences.
Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Mashed Potato Puffs
- Sauces: Try homemade peri peri sauce, spicy ketchup, or creamy garlic aioli.
- Drinks: Pair with a cold beer, iced tea, or sparkling water with lemon.
- Sides: Serve with a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or even grilled chicken for a complete meal.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Instructions
- Prep in Advance: Assemble the puffs, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezing: Lay uncooked puffs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Bake frozen puffs at 375°F for 30-35 minutes.
FAQs
What are potato puffs made of?
Potato puffs are typically made from a combination of mashed potatoes, eggs, cheese, and seasonings. Optional additions like bacon bits, herbs, or spices can be included to enhance their flavor. The mixture is shaped into small portions and then baked or fried until golden and crispy.
How do you make mashed potatoes fluffy and not gluey?
To make mashed potatoes fluffy, start with starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. Boil them until tender, then drain thoroughly to remove excess water. Use a potato ricer or masher to avoid overworking the starch, and gently fold in butter, milk, or cream. Avoid using a food processor or blender, as this can make them gluey.
What’s the difference between potato puffs and tater tots?
Potato puffs and tater tots may look similar but have key differences. Potato puffs are made from mashed potatoes mixed with other ingredients like cheese and seasonings, giving them a soft, fluffy texture. Tater tots, on the other hand, are made from grated or finely shredded potatoes, resulting in a crispier and denser bite.
What are mashed potato flakes?
Mashed potato flakes are dehydrated, instant mashed potatoes. They’re made by cooking, mashing, and drying potatoes into a flaked form. These flakes are commonly used as a quick alternative to fresh mashed potatoes and can also be used as a coating or thickening agent in recipes.
The Best Sauces for Mashed Potato Puffs
- Homemade Peri Peri Sauce: Tangy and spicy.
- Spicy Tomato Dip: A classic pairing.
- Creamy Garlic Aioli: Rich and indulgent.
- Ranch Dressing: A cool contrast to the warm, crispy puffs.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
- Baked Potato Croquettes: Similar but breaded and fried.
- Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole: A hearty family dish.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Perfect for carb lovers.
- Twice-baked potatoes: Another creative way to enjoy mashed potatoes.
Mashed potato puffs are a delightful way to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, these golden bites are sure to please. Get creative with variations, and don’t forget to share your favorite twist on this recipe in the comments. Happy cooking!
Fun Facts About Potatoes
- Potatoes were the first vegetable grown in space.
- There are over 4,000 varieties of potatoes worldwide.
- Mashed potato recipes date back to the 1700s!
- The largest potato ever grown weighed over 10 pounds.
What are you waiting for? Grab those leftover mashed potatoes and start puffing!
Print
Mashed Potato Puffs
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 puffs 1x
Description
Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, golden bites of goodness with these Mashed Potato Puffs. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re versatile, easy to make, and customizable with your favorite mix-ins.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftovers or freshly made)
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup bacon bits
- ¼ cup chives, chopped
- Pepper to taste
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, shredded
Optional Additions
- Diced jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Paprika or garlic powder for added depth
- Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, eggs, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, chives, and pepper. Mix gently to combine.
Portion the Mixture
- Use a spoon or cookie scoop to divide the mixture into the muffin tin cups or onto the baking sheet. Each portion should be about 2 tablespoons.
Add Parmesan
- Sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese on top of each puff for a golden, crispy crust.
Bake
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the tops are golden and slightly crispy.
Cool and Serve
- Let the puffs cool slightly before serving. Pair with dipping sauces like Spicy Tomato Dip or Creamy Garlic Aioli for added flavor.
Notes
- Use mashed potatoes that are not too runny or dry for the best texture.
- Avoid overmixing to keep the puffs light and fluffy.
- For extra crispiness, broil the puffs for the last 2 minutes of baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Calories: ~120 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Protein: 6 g
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