Crispy Cheddar Potato Puffs: A Cheesy, Savory Delight

Introduction

If you’re looking for the perfect snack or side dish that combines rich flavor and a satisfying crunch, look no further than these Crispy Cheddar Potato Puffs. This dish takes creamy mashed potatoes and coats them in a crispy, golden crust, while the melted cheddar cheese inside offers a gooey, flavorful bite. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, these puffs will quickly become a family favorite. Whether served alongside dinner or enjoyed as a savory snack, they are bound to impress everyone at your table!

Ingredients

For the Potato Mixture:

• 4 medium potatoes (preferably russet), peeled and diced
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Coating:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Boil the Potatoes: Peel and chop the potatoes into small chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Let them cook for about 15 minutes or until they’re fork-tender.
2. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the water from the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash until smooth with a potato masher or a hand mixer.

Step 2: Mix in the Ingredients

1. Combine the Mixture: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, whole milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Stir well until everything is thoroughly combined and the cheese is nicely melted.
2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper for flavor.

Step 3: Shape the Potato Puffs

1. Form the Puffs: Use your hands or a spoon to scoop portions of the mashed potato mixture. Shape them into small round or oval puffs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Coat the Puffs: In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese. Roll each potato puff in this mixture to coat them evenly. This will give the puffs their crispy golden exterior when baked.

Step 4: Bake the Potato Puffs

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to fully preheat.
2. Bake: Place the potato puffs in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
3. Garnish: After baking, remove from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the puffs for added color and a touch of freshness.

Tips for Success

• Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes are perfect for this recipe because they are starchy and produce fluffy mashed potatoes.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the mashed potato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, shape the puffs and coat them in breadcrumbs.
• Extra Flavor Add-ins: Feel free to add bacon bits, sautéed onions, or even some finely chopped herbs to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Crunchy: The outside of the puffs becomes golden and crispy, while the inside remains soft and cheesy, giving you the perfect balance of textures in every bite.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious side dish or snack in no time. The recipe is easy enough for beginners and yields a crowd-pleasing dish.
• Customizable: Add your favorite seasonings, cheese varieties, or even a little kick of spice to make these puffs your own.

Conclusion

Crispy Cheddar Potato Puffs are the perfect combination of creamy mashed potatoes and crispy golden crunch. Whether you serve them as a side dish or a stand-alone snack, they are sure to become a favorite. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe is sure to impress everyone around the table. Simple ingredients, minimal effort, and delicious results make these puffs an essential addition to your recipe collection.