Description
These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are crispy, cheesy bites made from cold mashed potatoes mixed with cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, green onions, and aromatic seasonings. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, they can be baked, air fried, or deep-fried to golden perfection. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these puffs are easy to make and delicious served with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
- 2 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for firmer texture)
- Oil or nonstick spray (for baking or frying)
Instructions
- Preheat Cooking Equipment: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). If frying, heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C) to ensure proper frying temperature.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped green onions, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the flour if you want the mixture firmer and easier to shape. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture holds together.
- Shape into Puffs: Using a spoon or your hands, scoop about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into small balls or slightly flatten into discs, depending on your preference.
- Bake Option: For baking, place the puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray them with oil, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even golden crispiness on all sides.
- Air Fry Option: Arrange the puffs in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket, spray with oil, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
- Fry Option: For deep frying, cook the puffs in batches, frying each side for 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown. After frying, drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the cheese puffs hot with your favorite dipping sauces like sour cream, ranch dressing, or ketchup. Enjoy these crispy, cheesy snacks fresh!
Notes
- You can omit the flour if you prefer a softer texture, but adding flour helps the puffs hold their shape better.
- If using an air fryer, avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste preferences.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer for best crispiness.
- These puffs freeze well before cooking; shape them and freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag to bake or fry later.
