Irresistible Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
These Irresistible Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a crispy, cheesy appetizer that combines creamy mashed potatoes with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Perfectly golden and flavorful, they make an excellent snack or party finger food that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
- Author: Clara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 20 puffs 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Potato Mixture
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Coating
For Frying
- Oil, for frying (enough to shallow fry)
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, egg, flour, salt, and pepper until well combined and uniform in texture.
- Shape Puffs: Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into golf ball-sized puffs, ensuring they are compact and hold together well.
- Coat Puffs: Roll each formed puff thoroughly in bread crumbs to create an even coating, which will contribute to a crispy exterior when fried.
- Heat Oil: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat, making sure it reaches an appropriate frying temperature for shallow frying.
- Fry Puffs: Carefully add the puffs in batches to the hot oil, frying each side until they turn golden brown, approximately 4-5 minutes per batch. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried puffs using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb and drain any excess oil.
- Serve Warm: Serve these delicious cheese puffs warm, paired with sour cream, marinara sauce, or your preferred dipping sauce for an irresistible appetizer experience.
Notes
- Ensure the mashed potatoes are seasoned well before starting the recipe for best flavor.
- Chill the mixture for 30 minutes prior to shaping to make handling easier and to help the puffs hold their shape.
- Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with different cheeses such as gouda or pepper jack to customize the flavor.
- For a healthier alternative, bake the puffs at 375°F for 20-25 minutes instead of frying.
- Do not overcrowd the pan during frying to maintain crispiness and even browning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 puffs
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: mashed potato cheese puffs, cheesy appetizers, fried potato puffs, party snacks, easy cheese puff recipe