Irresistible Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs for the Perfect Appetizer Recipe

Introduction

These irresistible mashed potato cheese puffs make the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, they combine the creamy comfort of mashed potatoes with the rich flavors of cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
2. Step 2: Shape the mixture into small puffs, about the size of a golf ball. Roll each puff evenly in bread crumbs to coat.
3. Step 3: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully fry the puffs until golden brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per batch.
4. Step 4: Remove the puffs from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the mixture.
• Try using different cheese varieties like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors.
• To make these puffs gluten-free, substitute the flour and bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli.

Storage

Store any leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake the cheese puffs instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the puffs at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy. Baking is a healthier alternative but may produce a slightly different texture.

Can I prepare the puffs ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can shape and coat the puffs, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. Just keep them covered to prevent drying out.

Irresistible Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs for the Perfect Appetizer Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 112 reviews

These Irresistible Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs are the perfect savory appetizer, combining creamy mashed potatoes with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, lightly coated in breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they make a delicious snack or party treat sure to please any crowd.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12–15 cheese puffs 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Mashed 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 and Frying

• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• Oil, for frying (about 1-2 cups depending on pan size)

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, egg, flour, salt, and pepper until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and the mixture is smooth enough to shape.
2. Shape Puffs: Using your hands, form the mixture into small puffs about the size of a golf ball, ensuring they hold together well without crumbling.
3. Coat with Bread Crumbs: Roll each shaped puff evenly in the bread crumbs to create a crispy outer layer once fried.
4. Heat Oil: Pour oil into a frying pan and heat over medium heat until hot enough for frying but not smoking (around 350°F or medium heat).
5. Fry Puffs: Carefully place the coated puffs into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per batch, turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried puffs from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
7. Serve Warm: Serve the cheese puffs warm as an appetizer or snack, enjoying their crispy exterior and cheesy, fluffy interior.

Notes

• For best results, use well-seasoned mashed potatoes to enhance flavor.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy puffs.
• You can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for variation.
• To make these gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and bread crumbs.
• Adjust salt and pepper to taste depending on your mashed potato seasoning.

Keywords: mashed potato puffs, cheese puffs, appetizer, fried snacks, cheesy mashed potatoes