1. Prepare Your Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a mini muffin tin generously with butter or cooking spray. The muffin tin gives the puffs their signature shape and helps them crisp up beautifully.
2. Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, eggs, melted butter, sour cream, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, and seasoning. Stir until everything is evenly blended into a thick, creamy mixture.
3. Fill and Coat
Scoop the mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top. Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese over each puff. This will melt into a gorgeous golden crust as they bake.
4. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crispy. The smell alone will make your mouth water.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Let them cool for 5 minutes before carefully removing them from the tin. Serve warm with your favorite dip—ranch, sour cream, or even a spicy aioli.
Tips for the Best Potato Puffs
- Texture matters: Smooth mashed potatoes work best, but if you love rustic bites, keep some potato chunks for extra character.
- Cheese choices: Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor, mozzarella brings the stretch, and Parmesan adds savory depth. Try a combination!
- Crispier edges: For extra crunch, brush the tops lightly with butter before baking.
- Air fryer option: Pop them in the air fryer at 375°F for 10–12 minutes for an even quicker, crispier result.
Variations You’ll Want to Try
- Loaded Potato Puffs: Add crumbled bacon, extra cheese, and a dollop of sour cream on top.
- Herb Lovers: Mix in rosemary, thyme, or parsley for fragrant bites.
- Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
- Breakfast Style: Serve with scrambled eggs and sausage for a hearty morning treat.
Why They’re Worth Every Bite
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are more than just food—they’re the kind of recipe that creates memories. Imagine pulling them hot out of the oven, the cheese bubbling, the aroma filling the kitchen, and everyone rushing to grab one before they’re gone. They embody the magic of turning something ordinary, like mashed potatoes, into something extraordinary and unforgettable.