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
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
- 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.
