Description
These Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins are a delightful twist on classic mashed potatoes, baked into individual golden-brown, cheesy puffs. Featuring a blend of sharp cheddar, garlic and herb cheese, parmesan, and fresh chives, these puffins make a perfect appetizer or side dish that’s creamy on the inside with a crispy top.
Ingredients
Scale
Potato Mixture
- 3 cups firm mashed potatoes, cold
- 1 (5.4 oz) garlic and herb soft cheese (such as Alouette or Boursin)
- 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, divided
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 Tbsp chopped chives, divided
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Topping and Garnish
- ½ cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese (remaining amount)
- 1 (8 oz) container sour cream or crème fraîche, for serving
- 1 Tbsp chopped chives, for garnish
- Cooking spray or melted butter, for greasing muffin tin
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the puffins.
- Mix the Potato Base: In a medium bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, garlic and herb cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of chopped chives, garlic salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Prepare the Muffin Tin: Generously coat each cup of a 12-cup standard muffin tin with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent sticking.
- Scoop the Mixture: Using a 4 oz ice cream scoop, evenly distribute the potato mixture into each muffin cup, filling them about to the top.
- Add the Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of each filled muffin cup for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 23-25 minutes, or until the puffins are set and the tops turn a beautiful golden brown.
- Loosen the Puffins: Carefully run a knife around the edges of each puffin to loosen them from the muffin tin once slightly cooled.
- Serve: Serve immediately, optionally topped with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche and garnished with the remaining chopped chives for added freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the mashed potatoes are cold to help the puffins hold their shape during baking.
- Use a non-stick muffin tin or thoroughly grease the tin to ease removal.
- You can substitute sour cream with crème fraîche for a richer flavor.
- The puffins are best served fresh but can be rewarmed gently in the oven.
- Adjust garlic salt and black pepper to taste if preferred milder or spicier flavor.
