Mashed Potato Puffs: Easy and Indulgent with Turkey Bacon

Name: Mashed Potato Puffs: Easy and Indulgent with Turkey Bacon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed potatoes; 1 cup shredded turkey bacon; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

Home >

Recipes

Ilyanna A.

Published:

January 6

Introduction to Mashed Potato Puffs

If you’re anything like me, you have those days when all you want is a delicious snack that’s both comforting and easy to whip up. That’s where mashed potato puffs come to the rescue! These little bites of heaven are the perfect blend of creamy mashed potatoes and crispy exteriors, making them a delightful treat at any time of day.

Why Mashed Potato Puffs Are the Ultimate Homemade Snack

Imagine a world where your leftovers transform into something exciting—and that’s what mashed potato puffs can do. Not only are they incredibly simple to make, but they also cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or just snacking solo, here are a few reasons why you should definitely add mashed potato puffs to your kitchen repertoire:

Versatility of Ingredients: You can customize your puffs to fit your flavor profile. Enjoy the savory taste of Turkey Bacon or add some Chicken Ham for a protein-packed punch. Plus, you can toss in different herbs and cheeses to elevate the flavor even more.
Incredible Texture: The crispy exterior paired with the fluffy interior is a sensory delight. You’ll find yourself popping one after another, unable to resist!
Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these mashed potato puffs can go from your kitchen to your table in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick snack fix.
Party Pleaser: Planning a gathering? Serve these puffs as an appetizer, and you’ll have your guests raving. They’re great both warm and at room temperature, making them an ideal choice for entertaining.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love them too! Their fun shape and crispy texture make them intriguing for little ones,, and you can sneak in some veggies if you like.

As you can see, mashed potato puffs offer a delightful way to enjoy comfort food without the hassle. If you’re ready to impress with this simple yet scrumptious recipe, let’s dive in and see how to create these mouthwatering bites at home.

Ingredients for Mashed Potato Puffs

When it comes to comfort food, mashed potato puffs are a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, perfect for impressing your guests or enjoying on a cozy night in. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients you’ll need to whip up a batch of these fluffy bites:

Mashed Potatoes (3 cups): Use your favorite homemade recipe or store-bought for convenience. Creamy, well-seasoned potatoes form the base.
Turkey Bacon (4 slices): Crisp up turkey bacon for a flavorful and healthier twist. Its smoky taste elevates the puffs beautifully.
Chicken Ham (1 cup): Chop up chicken ham for added protein and richness, providing a savory complement to the potatoes.
Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Shredded sharp cheddar cheese gives that melty, gooey goodness that everyone loves.
Eggs (2 large): Eggs help bind the mixture together, ensuring the puffs hold their shape when baked.
Green Onions (¼ cup): Freshly chopped green onions add a burst of color and a mild onion flavor.

Feel free to explore variations of these ingredients and make this recipe your own! If you’re looking for more inspiration, you might want to check out this guide on potato varieties to select the best type for your mashed potatoes.

Preparing Mashed Potato Puffs

If you’ve ever craved the comfort of mashed potatoes but wanted a fun twist, mashed potato puffs are your answer! These delightful bites are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Let’s dive into the steps to prepare these delicious treats that are perfect as appetizers, side dishes, or even snack-time delights.

Gather and prepare the ingredients

First things first—before we start cooking, let’s gather everything you need. Here are the essentials for the mashed potato puffs recipe:

2 cups of mashed potatoes (leftovers work great!)
1/2 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar works well)
1/4 cup of sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist)
1/2 cup of finely chopped green onions
1/2 cup of cooked turkey bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup of chicken ham, diced
1 large egg
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or butter for greasing

Make sure your mashed potatoes are free of lumps; you want a smooth texture for even distribution. If they’re straight from the fridge, consider warming them slightly to make mixing easier.

Combine the main ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed potatoes with the shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, crumbled turkey bacon, diced chicken ham, and the egg. What’s the secret to great flavor? It’s all about breaking the mashed potato monotony with the additional ingredients.

Using a spatula, gently fold everything together until well combined. This step is crucial—not only does it ensure each puff is packed with flavor, but it also creates that light, airy texture you’re after.

Did you know? Mashed potatoes are a fantastic source of potassium, which is essential for muscle function! You’re not just making a snack; you’re preparing something nourishing, too.

Grease the muffin pan

Next up, it’s time to prepare your muffin pan. If you’ve been wondering what pan is ideal, using a standard muffin tin changes the game. Lightly grease each cavity with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. You want to achieve a nice golden finish, and initially greasing helps to create that perfect crunch!

Using a non-stick spray can simplify cleanup, but if you prefer the old-school way, spreading a little butter can add flavor as well.

Spoon and mound the mixture

Now comes the fun part! Use a spoon or an ice cream scoop to fill each muffin cavity with the mashed potato mixture. Aim to fill each one about three-quarters full. This will allow a bit of room for them to rise without overflowing.

Gently mound the mixture, so it stands a little higher than the edges of the muffin cup. This mounding is key to achieving that delightful puffed appearance when they are baked, giving you a gorgeous end result that’s just begging to be shared on social media!

Bake until golden brown

Finally, it’s time to give your mashed potato puffs the heat they deserve. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and pop those beauties in once it’s hot. Bake them for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and firm to the touch.

This baking time allows the edges to crisp up just the way we love. The delicious aroma that fills your kitchen while they’re baking? It’s a bonus that’ll make your neighbors want to stop by for a taste-test!

When they’re done, carefully remove the muffin pan from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Pop them out gently, and enjoy them warm!

These mashed potato puffs really are a culinary delight that makes your mealtime much more exciting. Whether enjoyed alone or with a dipping sauce, they’re sure to impress! For more delicious potato recipes, check out these expert tips on Potato Quality and Characteristics and elevate your dish with ease.

Variations on Mashed Potato Puffs

Mashed potato puffs are a delightful twist on the classic dish, offering endless possibilities for flavor and creativity. Whether you’re preparing for a potluck or simply want to jazz up your weeknight dinner, these variations will surely impress your friends and family.

Cheesy Broccoli Mashed Potato Puffs

Imagine biting into a crispy puff and discovering a warm, cheesy center with chunks of broccoli — it’s the ultimate comfort food! To make cheesy broccoli mashed potato puffs, simply mix in cooked broccoli florets and shredded cheese of your choice, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, into your mashed potato mixture. You can even sprinkle a bit of garlic powder for an extra kick!

Consider pairing these puffs with a light dip made from Greek yogurt and herbs for added creaminess. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also adds a nutritious touch, making it a great option for busy weeknights. For more healthy twist ideas, check out sources like Healthline.

Spicy Jalapeño Mashed Potato Puffs

If you’re a fan of heat, then spicy jalapeño mashed potato puffs are calling your name! Just fold in finely diced jalapeños and a hint of cayenne pepper to your mashed potato mixture, and don’t forget to include a generous amount of cheese to balance the flavors.

These puffs are perfect as a snack or appetizer and pair wonderfully with a cooling sour cream or avocado dip. For added depth, consider garnishing them with scallions or cilantro. Spicy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, they’ll be a surefire hit at any gathering!

With these delicious variations, you can keep your mashed potato puffs exciting and shareable, appealing to different palates while maintaining that comforting essence we all love. What’s your favorite way to adapt this dish? Let us know!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Mashed Potato Puffs

Making delicious mashed potato puffs can be a delightful experience if you keep a few key tips in mind. Here’s how to elevate your dish:

Use Quality Potatoes

Opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They yield a creamy texture, perfect for puffs. Remember, soaking them briefly in cold water can help you remove excess starch.

Flavor Innovations

While traditional flavors are fantastic, don’t shy away from experimentation! Consider adding ingredients like garlic powder, cheese, or even herbs like chives for a personal touch. Some folks swear by adding Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham for a savory kick.

The Right Consistency

Ensure your potato mixture isn’t too runny. Achieving the right consistency is crucial for holding the shape of your mashed potato puffs. If needed, mix in breadcrumbs or flour to help bind it.

Baking Tips

For a perfectly golden exterior, use parchment paper and spray it lightly with non-stick oil. This also enhances crispiness, making your bites irresistible.

For more expert tips and tricks, check out sources like Serious Eats for advanced techniques. Happy cooking!