Description
These Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are crispy, cheesy bites made from cold mashed potatoes mixed with cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, green onions, and seasoning. They can be baked, air fried, or pan-fried to golden perfection, making a delicious appetizer or snack that’s easy to prepare in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 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)
Cooking Aids
- Oil or nonstick spray (for baking or air frying)
- Oil (for frying, if using skillet)
Instructions
- Preheat Cooking Appliance: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), or if using an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). If you prefer frying, heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C) for deep frying.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to blend all ingredients. Optionally add the flour if the mixture feels too loose, so it holds its shape better.
- Shape Into Puffs: Using a spoon, scoop about 1–2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into balls or flatten slightly into small discs with your hands or a spatula.
- Bake in Oven: Place the shaped puffs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and lightly spray them with oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking, until they are golden and crispy on the outside.
- Air Fry Option: Arrange the puffs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with oil and air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking or turning them halfway through the cooking time for even crisping.
- Fry in Skillet: For frying, carefully place the puffs in hot oil in batches. Fry each side for 2–3 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Remove and let drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the cheese puffs hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as sour cream, ranch dressing, or ketchup. Enjoy as a savory snack or appetizer!
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of flour to achieve your desired consistency; less flour makes for softer puffs, more flour yields firmer texture.
- These puffs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- If you want extra cheesy puffs, increase the cheddar cheese by 1/2 cup.
- Make sure to spray or oil the baking sheet or air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
