Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate comfort food with a crispy exterior and fluffy interior that’s perfect for any occasion. Imagine taking the beloved mashed potato and elevating it into bite-sized golden puffs that are much like a delicate Italian Arancini or a Southern cornbread muffin.
Pairing these little wonders with a Vodka Margarita or a smooth whiskey adds a refined twist to the experience. The saltiness from the puffs balances the sharpness of the cocktail.
Once you master this dish, try creating variations with different fillings or dipping sauces. Whether you’re serving them alongside Smothered Potatoes or as a starter for a dinner party, they’ll steal the show every time.
What’s So Great About This Dish?
- A crispy, satisfying texture – The outside is golden and crisp, while the inside is warm and creamy, creating the perfect contrast.
- Pairs well with cocktails – The puffs are a surprisingly great match for a Vodka Margarita or whiskey, taking your snack game to the next level.
- Easy to make in bulk – Perfect for parties or meal prep; you can make a batch in advance and simply bake them when you’re ready.
- Customizable to your taste – Add herbs, cheese, or even bacon bits to make them uniquely yours.
Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe
Mashed Potato Puffs are a deliciously crispy and cheesy side dish made from mashed potatoes, eggs, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chives. They're baked in muffin cups, topped with Parmesan cheese, and served warm with sour cream for a savory, comforting treat.
Equipment
- Muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spoon or ice cream scoop
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
- Oven mitts
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- ¼ cup bacon bits
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- ¼ cup chives, chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- large eggs, beaten
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, eggs, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chives.
- Add pepper to taste.
- Grease a muffin tin and spoon a generous amount of the mixture into each cup.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of each puff.
- Bake at 400°F for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let them cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
- Instant mashed potatoes work as a quick substitute for homemade mashed potatoes.
- You can prepare the mixture the night before and refrigerate it to bake the next day.
- Eggs are essential in this recipe, as they help the puffs rise; omitting them will result in a dense texture.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 122kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 5.7g |
| Fibre | 0.8g |
| Fat | 8.1g |
| Protein | 6.5g |
| Cholesterol | 65.8g |
Variations To Help You Customize This Dish!
- Add Vegetables – Incorporate finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or green onions for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick – Mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give the puffs a spicy twist.
- Cheese Variety – Swap out cheddar for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different taste.
- Herbs & Spices – Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme, or add garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
- Meatless Version – Skip the bacon bits and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetarian-friendly option.
