If you adore comforting, cheesy potato dishes with a bit of gourmet flair, then you are in for a real treat with this Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe. These golden, fluffy puffins are like little clouds of savory goodness packed with sharp cheddar, creamy herb cheese, and fresh chives, all baked to a perfect melt. Whether you’re looking for a delightful side dish to impress guests or a hearty snack to satisfy your cravings, this recipe combines familiar flavors in a uniquely fun and elegant way that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making these Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins sing. Each component plays a delicious role, from the rich cheeses adding depth and creaminess, to the fresh chives and garlic salt providing irresistible savory notes and vibrant color.
- 3 cups firm mashed potatoes, cold: The perfect base with a dense texture to hold the puffins together beautifully.
- 1 (5.4 oz) garlic and herb soft cheese: Brings creamy richness and a burst of herbaceous flavor.
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, divided: Sharpness adds tang and complexity; divided for mixing and topping.
- 3 large eggs, beaten: Acts as a natural binder keeping everything moist but firm.
- 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese: Adds an umami punch and a slightly nutty finish.
- 2 Tbsp chopped chives, divided: Fresh chives brighten the dish with mild oniony crunch.
- 1 tsp garlic salt: Infuses a subtle, irresistible garlic flavor throughout.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Just enough to add warmth and balance the flavors.
- 1 (8 oz) container sour cream or crème fraîche: Perfect for serving, adding creamy tang on the side.
How to Make Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures your puffins develop a beautifully golden crust while staying soft inside. While the oven warms, lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or melted butter to help the puffins release easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes with the garlic and herb soft cheese, one cup of shredded cheddar, beaten eggs, Parmesan, one tablespoon of chopped chives, garlic salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until you have an even, fluffy mixture packed with flavor and herbs. The contrast between the creamy cheeses and the firm mashed potatoes is what makes this recipe so special.
Step 3: Portion into Muffin Tin
Using a 4-ounce ice cream scoop or a large spoon, divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups. This step ensures uniform puffins that cook evenly. Don’t be shy about filling each cup to the top—the puffins will puff up slightly but should stay contained.
Step 4: Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over each puffin. This layer of cheese on top melts into a bubbly, golden crust that adds a delicious texture contrast to the soft interiors.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your puffins in the preheated oven for 23-25 minutes, or until the tops turn a gorgeous golden brown and the puffins are set. You’ll know they are ready when you see a light crust and a slight pull away from the edges of the muffin tin.
Step 6: Remove and Garnish
Carefully run a knife around each puffin to loosen it from the tin. Serve immediately for the best texture and warmth. Add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche, and sprinkle with the remaining chopped chives for a fresh finish that makes every bite irresistible.
How to Serve Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes take these puffins from delicious to extraordinary. A spoonful of sour cream or crème fraîche adds a cool, creamy tang that pairs perfectly with the sharp cheddar. Fresh chopped chives or even a little sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a pop of color and an exciting flavor twist.
Side Dishes
These puffins shine alongside bright, fresh salads such as a crisp mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a tangy cabbage slaw. For heartier meals, serve with roasted vegetables or your favorite grilled meats to make a well-rounded, satisfying plate. They also uniquely complement brunch dishes like poached eggs or smoked salmon.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving these puffins as individual appetizers at parties, maybe with a toothpick and a dab of your favorite dipping sauce like garlic aioli or chipotle mayo. Stack them on a platter for an eye-catching side, or even enjoy them stuffed with bits of crispy bacon or caramelized onions to elevate the flavor profile in fun, unexpected ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them well covered to preserve moisture and prevent the cheese from drying out.
Freezing
These puffins freeze beautifully if you want to prepare them in advance. Cool them completely after baking, then place in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 1 month without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the frozen puffins into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through and crisped again. If refrigerated, a quick 10-minute warm-up in the oven will refresh their golden crust and melty center, making it almost like they were freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic salt?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh garlic, finely mince one small clove and add it to the potato mixture. Reduce or omit additional salt to balance the flavors accordingly.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Sturdy, firm mashed potatoes made from waxy varieties like Yukon Gold work best as they hold their shape and moisture better, creating the perfect texture for puffins.
Can I make these vegan or dairy-free?
With some substitutions, yes! Use vegan cream cheese, dairy-free shredded cheese, and a flax egg or other plant-based binder. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Are these puffins suitable for freezing raw before baking?
It’s best to bake them fresh or freeze after baking. Raw mixtures may separate or lose texture when frozen, impacting the final puffin quality.
Can I add other herbs or spices to customize the flavor?
Definitely! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of smoked paprika can add new layers of flavor, making this recipe wonderfully versatile.
Final Thoughts
Making the Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe at home delivers a comforting, flavorful experience you will want to revisit often. They are as fun to make as they are to eat — golden, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned little bites that bring joy to any table. Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly these delightful puffins disappear. Trust me, once you taste them, they’ll become one of your go-to favorites for gatherings or simple weeknight indulgence!
Print
Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins are a deliciously cheesy and savory appetizer or side dish, featuring a creamy potato base enhanced with garlic herb cheese, sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and fresh chives. Baked to golden perfection, they’re perfect for gatherings or a comforting snack served with a dollop of sour cream.
Ingredients
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
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 Tbsp chopped chives
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Topping and Garnish
- ½ cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- 1 Tbsp chopped chives
- Cooking spray or melted butter, for greasing muffin tin
- 1 (8 oz) container sour cream or crème fraîche, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the puffins.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, garlic and herb soft cheese, 1 cup of shredded sharp white cheddar, beaten eggs, grated Parmesan, 1 tablespoon of chopped chives, garlic salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended.
- Prepare the Muffin Tin: Liberally brush or spray the cups of a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent sticking.
- Fill the Muffin Cups: Using a 4 oz ice cream scoop (or equivalent), evenly divide the potato mixture among the prepared muffin cups, filling each one completely.
- Add the Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese evenly over the tops of the filled muffin cups.
- Bake the Puffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 23-25 minutes, or until the puffins are set firmly and the tops are golden brown.
- Loosen the Puffins: Carefully run a knife around the edges of each puffin to detach them from the muffin tin, making removal easier.
- Serve: Serve the puffins immediately. Optionally, top with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche and garnish with the remaining tablespoon of chopped chives for added freshness and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use cold mashed potatoes to help the mixture hold together during baking.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute part of the cheese with a lower-fat alternative.
- The garlic salt can be adjusted according to taste or replaced with regular salt if preferred.
- These puffins can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Use fresh chives for garnish to add a vibrant color and fresh aroma.
