Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

Instructions:

1. Cook the Potatoes: Start by peeling and dicing the russet potatoes into chunks of roughly the same size. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt to the water, and bring it to a boil. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
2. Mash the Potatoes: Mash the cooked potatoes using a potato masher or a hand mixer until smooth. Add the butter and milk (or cream) to make the potatoes creamy. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the cheese is fully melted and the potatoes are smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
3. Prepare the Mixture: Let the mashed potatoes cool for a few minutes before adding the eggs. Beat the eggs in a small bowl and then fold them into the mashed potatoes. This will help bind the mixture and give the puffs their structure.
4. Form the Puffs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or a baking sheet if you don’t have one. Scoop spoonfuls of the mashed potato mixture and form them into little balls or mounds. You can use your hands or a spoon to shape them. The mixture will be slightly sticky, so don’t worry if they aren’t perfect.
5. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Pour the breadcrumbs into a shallow bowl. Gently roll each mashed potato ball in the breadcrumbs until it is fully coated. This will give the puffs a crispy exterior once baked.
6. Bake the Puffs: Arrange the coated mashed potato puffs in the muffin tin or on the baking sheet, spacing them out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve and Garnish: Remove the cheesy mashed potato puffs from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs:

• Crispy and Creamy: These puffs have the perfect combination of a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a soft, cheesy interior that makes every bite irresistible.
• Cheesy Goodness: The melted cheddar and Parmesan cheese create a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the smooth mashed potatoes.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends, such as adding mozzarella for extra meltiness or incorporating some spicy jalapeños or bacon for added flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner, a holiday gathering, or a potluck, these cheesy mashed potato puffs are sure to impress everyone at the table.

Tips and Variations:

• Add Bacon: For a smoky, savory twist, try mixing in crumbled cooked bacon into the mashed potato mixture.
• Use Different Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even blue cheese for unique flavors.
• Make It Vegetarian: These puffs are naturally vegetarian-friendly, but you can add veggies like finely chopped spinach or roasted red peppers for extra color and flavor.
• Freeze for Later: You can make these in advance and freeze them. Simply prepare the puffs up to the point of baking, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then store them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Final Thoughts:

Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate comfort food in snack form. Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and loaded with melted cheese, these little bites of heaven are a must-try. Whether you’re looking to switch up your regular mashed potato routine or impress guests at your next gathering, these puffs will be a hit every time. Enjoy them as a side dish, an appetizer, or a tasty snack that everyone will adore!