Description
These Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are a delightful appetizer or side dish featuring creamy mashed potatoes blended with Monterey Jack cheese and fresh chives, baked to golden perfection in mini muffin tins. Perfectly bite-sized and bursting with savory flavor, they make an excellent party snack or comfort food treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Potato Mixture
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (at room temperature)
- 3 eggs (beaten)
- 3/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Topping
- 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For Serving (Optional)
- Sour cream
- Extra chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed potatoes, beaten eggs, 3/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and chopped chives until everything is evenly combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Scoop into Muffin Tin: Using a small scoop or spoon, portion the potato mixture into the prepared mini muffin cups, filling each nearly to the top to allow room for puffing during baking.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup shredded Monterrey Jack cheese evenly over the top of each filled muffin cup.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the puffs are puffed up, set firmly, and lightly golden brown on top.
- Cool and Remove: Allow the puffs to cool for about 5 minutes, then carefully run a butter knife or an offset spatula around the edges to gently release and remove them from the tin without breaking.
- Serve: Serve the puffs warm, garnished with extra chopped chives and optional dollops of sour cream for added richness and tang. Enjoy your delicious cheesy mashed potato puffs!
Notes
- Make sure the mashed potatoes are at room temperature for better mixing and baking results.
- Feel free to substitute Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar or your favorite melting cheese.
- You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it; just bring it back to room temperature before baking.
- If you prefer sharper flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the potato mixture.
- These puffs freeze well; bake them first, then freeze and reheat in the oven until warm and crispy.
