Description
Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are a delicious way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes. These cheesy bites are seasoned perfectly and make a fantastic appetizer or snack that everyone will enjoy!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups of mashed potatoes
- 1 cup of shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika (optional)
- Oil for frying
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, add the 2 cups of mashed potatoes. If using leftover mashed potatoes, ensure they are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Add the 1 cup of shredded cheese. Sharp cheddar is recommended, but feel free to use mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
- Sprinkle in the 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour to help bind the mixture.
- Add the 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
- Crack in the large egg to help hold the mixture together.
- Season with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika (if using).
- Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring a thick, cohesive mixture that holds together when formed into balls. If too wet, add a little more flour.
- With clean hands, take a small amount of the mixture (about 1-2 tablespoons) and roll it into a ball or shape into small patties.
- Place the shaped puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Continue shaping until all the mixture is used, yielding about 15-20 puffs.
- In a large frying pan, pour enough oil to cover the bottom by about 1/2 inch. For a deep fryer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for oil levels.
- Heat the oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking. Test readiness by dropping a small piece of the mixture into the oil; it should sizzle and bubble.
- Carefully add a few puffs to the hot oil, frying in batches of 4-5 to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry the puffs for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to flip them halfway through cooking.
- Once cooked, remove the puffs from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Notes
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
- These puffs can be served with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as ranch or marinara.
- For a healthier option, consider baking the puffs in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes