Pin it
I whipped up these Cheesy Potato Bites one night after staring at a container of day-old mashed potatoes. Now they've turned into our go-to way to transform basic spuds into something incredible! They crisp up beautifully on the outside while staying soft and cheesy inside - like tiny pillows of potato goodness. My kids actually get happy when we have mashed potato leftovers because they know these tasty puffs will show up on tomorrow's dinner table.
Simple Ingredients For Delicious Potato Bites
- Mashed Potatoes: 2 cups either leftover or freshly made work fine. We love using our roasted garlic version for extra kick.
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup grated right off the block for the best melting texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup freshly shaved adds amazing flavor notes.
- Eggs: 2 large ones help create that fluffy structure we want.
- Milk: ¼ cup to nail the perfect texture.
- Green Onions: 2 thinly sliced from the backyard when available.
- Garlic Powder: ½ tsp because garlic makes everything tastier.
- Smoked Paprika: ½ tsp my hidden weapon for depth of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Just a dash to bring out all the tastes.
Let's Create Potato Heaven
- Time to Enjoy
- Give them a minute to firm up then gobble them down while they're warm with all that gooey cheese!
- Baking Time
- Stick them in the oven for around 20 minutes until you see that gorgeous golden top and they're set inside.
- Fill Those Tins
- Drop the mixture into your muffin pan about ¾ full so they can puff up nicely.
- Mix It Up
- Combine everything in a large bowl your potatoes both cheeses eggs milk those green onions and all your spices. Stir until completely blended.
- Get Started
- First thing you'll need to do is warm your oven to 400°F and grease that muffin tin thoroughly as these tend to stick!
My Clever Kitchen Secrets
- Dip It Good: We can't get enough of these dunked in cool sour cream or my homemade buttermilk ranch.
- Extra Crispy Top: Sprinkle a bit more Parmesan just before baking for an incredibly crunchy crown.
- Make Them Special: Try adding some crunchy bacon bits or leftover holiday ham for an amazing flavor upgrade.
Pin it
The Magic Behind These Tasty Bites
These potato bites have come to the rescue for countless family meals when I needed something fast and comforting. The way they rise up all golden, with melty cheese and that crispy exterior, it's comfort food at its finest. My little ones actually clap when they spot me grabbing the muffin pan because they know what's coming. There's just something so rewarding about turning plain old leftover mashed potatoes into these irresistible little mouthfuls of deliciousness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why do my puffs fall apart?
Your mix might be too moist. Add some more cheese or let the potatoes air-dry a bit before combining.
- → Can I prep these earlier?
Yes! Prep everything ahead, keep it in the fridge, and bake right before serving for best results.
- → What potato type is ideal?
Any mashed potatoes work, but fluffier ones like Russets are perfect since they hold their shape better.
- → Is it okay to freeze them?
Sure! Bake them first, then freeze. Reheat in the oven, and they’ll stay crispy for up to two months.
- → How do I stop them from sticking?
Make sure to grease every part of the muffin tin, including the sides. A non-stick spray is your friend here.