Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Mashed potato cheese puffs: Prepare to elevate your leftover mashed potatoes into a delightful culinary experience! Imagine biting into a golden-brown, crispy exterior that gives way to a soft, cheesy, and utterly irresistible interior. These aren’t your average potato puffs; they’re a sophisticated twist on comfort food, perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a satisfying snack.

While the exact origins of potato puffs are somewhat debated, the concept of transforming humble potatoes into airy, bite-sized delights has been around for centuries. Think of the classic French pommes soufflées, where thin potato slices are puffed up in hot oil. Our mashed potato cheese puffs draw inspiration from this tradition, adding a cheesy twist that makes them truly special. Cheese and potatoes have always been a match made in culinary heaven, and this recipe perfectly showcases that harmonious pairing.

What makes these puffs so universally loved? It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The crispy exterior provides a satisfying crunch, while the creamy, cheesy interior melts in your mouth. They’re incredibly easy to make, especially if you already have leftover mashed potatoes on hand, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Plus, who can resist the comforting, familiar taste of mashed potatoes elevated with the richness of cheese? Get ready to impress your family and friends with these addictive little bites!

Ingredients:

• For the Mashed Potato Base:
• 4 cups cooked and mashed potatoes (russet or Yukon gold work best), cooled completely
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste, depending on how salty your mashed potatoes already are)
• For the Cheese Filling:
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
• Pinch of garlic powder
• For Breading and Frying:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying (about 3-4 cups)

Preparing the Cheese Filling:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, provolone cheese, and chopped chives (if using).
2. Add a pinch of garlic powder to the cheese mixture. This will enhance the flavor of the filling.
3. Mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth. Make sure there are no lumps of cream cheese remaining.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cheese filling for at least 30 minutes. This will help it firm up and make it easier to work with when forming the cheese puffs. Chilling the filling is crucial for preventing it from melting too quickly during frying.

Making the Mashed Potato Dough:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, grated Parmesan cheese, and grated cheddar cheese. Ensure the mashed potatoes are completely cooled; otherwise, the cheese will melt and the dough will become too sticky.
2. Add the melted butter and the lightly beaten egg to the potato mixture. The melted butter adds richness and flavor, while the egg helps bind the ingredients together.
3. Gradually add the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to the mixture. Mix well until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the potato puffs tough.
4. Season the dough with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Adjust the seasoning to your liking, keeping in mind that the cheese will also add saltiness.
5. Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface for a minute or two until it forms a smooth, pliable ball. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shape. Chilling the dough is an important step for achieving the best results.

Assembling the Cheese Puffs:

1. Remove the mashed potato dough and the cheese filling from the refrigerator.
2. Lightly flour your work surface to prevent the dough from sticking.
3. Take a small amount of the mashed potato dough (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it into a small disc in the palm of your hand.
4. Take a small spoonful (about 1 teaspoon) of the chilled cheese filling and place it in the center of the potato disc.
5. Carefully bring the edges of the potato dough up and around the cheese filling, pinching them together to seal the filling inside. Make sure there are no gaps or holes in the dough, as this will cause the cheese to leak out during frying.
6. Roll the filled potato ball gently between your palms to form a smooth, round puff.
7. Repeat steps 3-6 with the remaining mashed potato dough and cheese filling. Place the formed cheese puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Once all the cheese puffs are assembled, place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes. This will help them hold their shape during the breading and frying process.

Breading the Cheese Puffs:

1. Prepare three shallow dishes for the breading process.
2. In the first dish, place the 1 cup of all-purpose flour.
3. In the second dish, beat the 2 large eggs.
4. In the third dish, place the 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs.
5. Remove the cheese puffs from the freezer.
6. One at a time, dredge each cheese puff in the flour, making sure it is completely coated. Shake off any excess flour.
7. Dip the floured cheese puff into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
8. Finally, roll the egg-coated cheese puff in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the surface.
9. Place the breaded cheese puffs back on the baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Frying the Cheese Puffs:

1. Pour the vegetable oil into a deep pot or Dutch oven. You will need enough oil to fully submerge the cheese puffs.
2. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy, golden-brown cheese puffs.
3. Carefully place a few cheese puffs into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding the pot will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy cheese puffs.
4. Fry the cheese puffs for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. Remove the fried cheese puffs from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
6. Repeat the frying process with the remaining cheese puffs, working in batches.
7. Let the cheese puffs cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, when the cheese filling is melted and gooey.

Serving Suggestions:

These mashed potato cheese puffs are delicious on their own as a snack or appetizer. You can also serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as:

• Ranch dressing
• Sour cream
• Ketchup
• Spicy mayo
• Garlic aioli

For a more substantial meal, serve them alongside a salad or as a side dish to grilled chicken or steak.

Tips for Success:

• Use cold mashed potatoes: This is crucial for preventing the dough from becoming too sticky.
• Chill the cheese filling: This will help it hold its shape during frying.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot: This will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy cheese puffs.
• Maintain the correct oil temperature: This is essential for achieving crispy, golden-brown cheese puffs.
• Work in batches: This will help maintain the oil temperature and prevent the cheese puffs from sticking together.

Variations:

• Add bacon: Mix cooked and crumbled bacon into the mashed potato dough for a smoky flavor.
• Use different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese in the filling, such as pepper jack or Gruyere.
• Add herbs: Mix chopped fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, into the mashed potato dough for added flavor.
• Make them spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mashed potato dough or the cheese filling for a spicy kick.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! These mashed potato cheese puffs are truly something special, and I genuinely believe you need to try them. They’re the perfect way to elevate leftover mashed potatoes from a simple side dish to a show-stopping appetizer or snack. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, cheesy, and utterly comforting interior that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you pop one of these little golden nuggets into your mouth, you won’t be able to stop!

But why are these puffs a must-try? It’s simple: they’re incredibly versatile, surprisingly easy to make, and deliver a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. They’re a fantastic way to use up those leftover mashed potatoes after a holiday feast, preventing food waste and transforming them into something truly delicious. Plus, they’re a fun and interactive dish to make with kids, getting them involved in the kitchen and creating lasting memories.

Beyond the basic recipe, the possibilities are endless! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Sharp cheddar, Gruyere, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan would all be fantastic additions. For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mashed potato mixture. You could also incorporate some finely chopped herbs like chives, parsley, or dill for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* As an Appetizer: Serve these puffs warm with a side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a creamy garlic aioli for dipping. Arrange them artfully on a platter for a sophisticated presentation.
* As a Snack: Enjoy them straight from the oven as a satisfying and comforting snack. They’re perfect for movie nights, game days, or any time you’re craving something cheesy and delicious.
* As a Side Dish: These puffs make a delightful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or your favorite comfort food dishes.
* Breakfast Variation: Add some crumbled bacon or sausage to the mashed potato mixture and serve these puffs with a fried egg for a savory and satisfying breakfast.
* Spicy Variation: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mashed potato mixture for a spicy kick.
* Herbaceous Variation: Mix in finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic and flavorful twist.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of these mashed potato cheese puffs for yourself. I truly believe they’ll become a new favorite in your household. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and variations to make them your own.

Once you’ve given them a try, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and comments on social media using #MashedPotatoCheesePuffs or tag me in your posts. Let me know what variations you tried and how they turned out. I’m always eager to see your culinary creations and learn from your experiences. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite! I can’t wait to hear what you think!

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