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#### Directions:
1. **Preheat the Oven**:
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent the puffs from sticking.
2. **Prepare the Potato Mixture**:
– In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the shredded cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well-combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy but firm enough to hold its shape.
3. **Form the Puffs**:
– Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, scoop out portions of the mashed potato mixture and roll them into small balls. Each puff should be about the size of a golf ball.
– Roll the mashed potato balls in the breadcrumbs, making sure each one is fully coated for a crispy exterior.
4. **Place on the Baking Sheet**:
– Arrange the breadcrumb-coated mashed potato balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about an inch apart. Brush the tops of the puffs with the melted butter for an extra golden, crispy finish.
5. **Bake**:
– Bake the puffs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can flip them halfway through to ensure even crisping on all sides.
6. **Serve and Enjoy**:
– Once they’re done, remove the cheesy mashed potato puffs from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
7. **Optional Dipping Sauces**:
– Serve these puffs with a dipping sauce such as sour cream, ranch dressing, or a spicy ketchup for an extra layer of flavor. You can also drizzle them with a little bit of hot sauce for some heat.
### Tips for Perfect Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
– **Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes**: These puffs are a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Just make sure they’re already well-seasoned and creamy so the puffs have great flavor.
– **Customize with Flavors**: Add extras like crispy bacon, sautéed onions, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture for added flavor. You can also try different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a unique twist.
– **Panko Breadcrumbs for Extra Crunch**: For an even crunchier coating, opt for panko breadcrumbs, which give these puffs a light, airy crunch.
– **Shape Consistency**: Make sure to roll the puffs into evenly sized balls so they cook uniformly. A cookie scoop can help make this step easier.
– **Serving Ideas**: Serve these cheesy mashed potato puffs as a side dish with meats like roasted chicken, steak, or pork. They also work wonderfully as appetizers for a gathering or party.
### Variations to Try
– **Bacon Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs**: Add crispy crumbled bacon to the mashed potatoes for a smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
– **Buffalo Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs**: Mix in some buffalo sauce into the mashed potatoes for a spicy, tangy twist, and serve with blue cheese dipping sauce.
– **Herb-Infused Puffs**: For a fresh, aromatic flavor, mix in finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the potato mixture.
### Why You’ll Love Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are the ultimate comfort food that everyone can enjoy. These puffs are crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, and are the perfect way to transform your traditional mashed potatoes into a fun, bite-sized treat. They’re easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re looking for a side dish, an appetizer, or a snack, these cheesy mashed potato puffs will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
### Conclusion
If you’re craving a cheesy, crispy, and delicious twist on classic mashed potatoes, **Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs** are the answer. These flavorful puffs are easy to prepare, customizable, and make the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re using up leftovers or making them fresh, these puffs are sure to impress. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy these irresistible cheesy mashed potato puffs with your family and friends!
