These Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins are a fun and delicious twist on traditional mashed potatoes. With the creamy texture of mashed potatoes, the richness of cheese, the freshness of chives, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, these little puffins make the perfect side dish or snack for any occasion. They’re easy to prepare and can be made in advance, making them ideal for holiday dinners, parties, or even as a comforting weeknight treat.
Ingredients Overview
- Mashed Potatoes: You can use homemade or store-bought mashed potatoes. Either will work, but homemade will give you a little more control over texture and flavor.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella is perfect for these puffins, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like parmesan or monterey jack for a unique flavor.
- Sour Cream: Adds a creamy, tangy flavor that elevates the richness of the mashed potatoes.
- Fresh Chives: They bring a mild onion flavor and fresh, herbal note to the dish.
- Garlic: Minced garlic and garlic powder provide a savory depth of flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to help hold the puffins together.
- Breadcrumbs: A crunchy panko or regular breadcrumbs add a nice crispy topping. You can also use parmesan cheese mixed with breadcrumbs for an extra cheesy crunch.
- Olive Oil: Helps the breadcrumbs brown and adds a little richness to the top.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with silicone muffin cups for easy removal. The muffin tin helps the puffins hold their shape.
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, chives, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and the beaten egg.
- Mix everything until well combined. The egg helps bind the ingredients together while the cheese adds richness.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin
- Scoop the mashed potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin. Fill each cup to the top and press down slightly to pack it in. This ensures that the puffins hold together when baking.
Step 4: Add Breadcrumbs
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of each potato puffin. The breadcrumbs will help form a golden, crispy topping.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the breadcrumbs to help them brown and crisp up in the oven.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. The potato puffins should be slightly puffed up and firm to the touch.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow the puffins to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin. Use a spoon or knife to gently loosen them if needed.
- Serve the puffins warm, either as a side dish, appetizer, or snack. They pair wonderfully with roast meats or a simple salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with a side of sour cream or ranch dressing for dipping. You can also try ketchup or garlic butter for an added indulgence.
- Pair with Meat: These mashed potato puffins go perfectly with roast chicken, steak, or even grilled vegetables.
- For a Complete Meal: Pair them with a hearty soup like tomato basil soup or a light green salad for a complete meal.
Additional Tips
- Make Ahead: These potato puffins can be prepared in advance. After filling the muffin tin, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven and cook as directed.
- Customize Your Cheese: If you love cheese, feel free to add more or mix different types of cheese. Parmesan, Gruyere, or even pepper jack could all be great additions.
- Add Veggies: If you’d like to add some extra veggies, corn kernels, peas, or finely chopped spinach can be mixed into the mashed potato mixture for a colorful twist.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins
These Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins are a unique and fun way to enjoy mashed potatoes. With their crispy, golden tops and creamy, cheesy insides, they offer the perfect combination of textures. The garlic and chives bring an aromatic flavor to each bite, while the breadcrumbs create a delightful crunch. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish for a holiday meal, a family dinner, or as a tasty appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone!
