Cheesy Mashed Potato Puff is a comforting, cheesy, and fluffy dish that’s perfect as a side or even as a light main course. It combines creamy mashed potatoes with melted cheese for a savory bite, then baked to perfection for a crispy golden crust. This dish is easy to prepare and will be a hit with anyone who loves cheesy comfort food!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, melted butter, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the eggs and mix well until smooth.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunch.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the dish is heated through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Pair with grilled chicken or steak for a hearty dinner.
- Enjoy as a side to a fresh salad.
- Top with extra cheese before baking for a cheesy crust.
- Add some fresh herbs like chives or parsley on top for a burst of flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure your mashed potatoes are smooth and not too lumpy for the best texture.
- For extra richness, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the mashed potatoes before mixing in the other ingredients.
- You can prep this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in calcium from the cheese.
- Provides fiber from potatoes.
- A good source of protein from the eggs.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or omitting them altogether.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 250
- Carbs: 30g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave until warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s comforting, cheesy, and indulgent.
- Quick to make and easy to prepare.
- Versatile enough to pair with various dishes.
- It’s sure to please cheese lovers and anyone who enjoys mashed potatoes.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Mashed Potato Puff is a perfect side dish for any meal, or it can even stand alone as a main dish. The creamy mashed potatoes, combined with cheese and baked to golden perfection, make it a crowd-pleaser. This dish is quick to prepare, easy to make ahead, and can be customized with different cheeses or herbs. Enjoy it as part of a hearty meal or on its own!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere cheese for different flavors. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mashed potato mixture, place it in the baking dish, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. - Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly and bake it from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. - What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese as a substitute. - Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese and sour cream alternatives to make this recipe dairy-free. - How do I prevent the mashed potatoes from being too runny?
Make sure your mashed potatoes are thick and creamy before adding the other ingredients. If they’re too runny, add a bit more mashed potato or reduce the amount of milk. - Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results. - Can I add meat to this dish?
Yes! You can add cooked bacon, sausage, or even chicken to make it more filling. - Can I use frozen mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen mashed potatoes. Just thaw them before mixing in the other ingredients.