Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins are a delightful twist on classic mashed potatoes, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. These savory muffins are crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and loaded with cheesy goodness. They’re an excellent way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes or create a comforting dish from scratch. Simple to prepare and customizable with your favorite mix-ins, these muffins are sure to be a hit at any table.
Ingredients
- 3 cups chilled mashed potatoes
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped chives
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for rolling
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a mini muffin pan with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large bowl, mix together the chilled mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar, chives, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in grated Parmesan cheese to coat.
- Place the coated potato balls into the cavities of the prepared muffin pan, gently pressing down to form a puff shape.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Let them cool for a few minutes before removing them from the pan. Serve warm and enjoy watching them disappear!
Variations & Tips
- Feel free to mix in other ingredients like cooked and crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, or swap cheddar for your favorite cheese blend.
- Short on time? Use instant mashed potatoes, but let the mixture cool to room temp before handling.
- These puffs freeze beautifully. Cool completely, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven for a crispy treat.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and swap half the potatoes for mashed cauliflower.
How to Store Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheating: Microwave for 30-60 seconds or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Thaw frozen muffins overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins are the ultimate comfort food, offering a fun and portable way to enjoy creamy, cheesy flavors. Perfect for meal prep, parties, or a quick snack, these muffins are versatile and easy to store. Try them today and watch them become a family favorite!
