If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brings a comforting twist to your table, the Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe might just become your new favorite. These golden, cheesy little puffs are bursting with savory flavors from garlic, fresh chives, and a blend of sharp cheeses, all packed into perfectly portioned bites. Whether you’re serving them as a side or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, each puffin offers a tender, fluffy texture on the inside and a satisfyingly crisp crust on the outside. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe, it will quickly become a go-to comfort food you love sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together beautifully to create the rich, creamy, and flavorful base of the potato puffins. Each element plays a vital role—sharp cheddar adds depth and melted goodness, fresh chives bring a bright pop of herbaceousness, and the garlic and herb cheese amplifies the savory complexity.
- 3 cups firm mashed potatoes, cold: Using cold mashed potatoes helps the puffins hold their shape during baking for that perfect puff.
- 1 (5.4 oz) garlic and herb soft cheese: Adds creamy richness and a wonderful garlic-herb aroma.
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, divided: Cheddar’s tangy sharpness balances the smooth potatoes beautifully.
- 3 large eggs, beaten: Eggs are the binder that holds everything together and provide structure.
- 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan lends a nutty, salty kick to deepen the flavor profile.
- 2 Tbsp chopped chives, divided: Fresh chives brighten and freshen the dish with an onion-like zest.
- 1 tsp garlic salt: Infuses additional garlic flavor and seasoning throughout the puffins.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat to round out the taste.
- 1 (8 oz) container sour cream or crème fraîche: Perfect for serving alongside, providing a cool, tangy complement.
How to Make Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensuring it’s hot enough from the beginning is key to achieving those beautifully golden tops and a crisp exterior on your puffins.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Potato Base
In a medium bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes with garlic and herb soft cheese, 1 cup of shredded cheddar, beaten eggs, Parmesan, 1 tablespoon of chopped chives, garlic salt, and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly blends the flavors and sets the tone for the dish’s luscious texture.
Step 3: Prepare Your Muffin Tin
To avoid any sticky situations, generously coat the cups of a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or melted butter. This will help your puffins slide out effortlessly once baked.
Step 4: Scoop the Mixture Evenly
Using a 4 oz ice cream scoop, portion the potato mixture evenly into the muffin cups. This tool makes it so easy to get consistent sizes for perfect cooking and presentation.
Step 5: Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the tops of each muffin cup. This extra layer melts into a golden, irresistible crust that adds an eye-catching finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 23 to 25 minutes. You’ll know your puffins are ready when they are set firmly and beautifully golden brown on top—make sure to keep an eye on that lovely color!
Step 7: Loosen and Remove
After baking, run a knife gently around the edges of each puffin to loosen it. This helps you remove them cleanly without breaking that delicate crust.
Step 8: Serve with Style
Serve these potato puffins warm, optionally with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche and the remaining chopped chives for a fresher look and that perfect flavor boost.
How to Serve Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little finishing touch elevates your dish instantly. A dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche on the side pairs wonderfully with the puffins’ rich, cheesy character. Fresh chopped chives sprinkled over the top brighten the dish visually and add a subtle onion-like crunch that complements the garlic.
Side Dishes
These puffins shine alongside a crisp green salad or a light sautéed vegetable medley. Their richness pairs perfectly with bright, fresh sides that balance each bite and keep the meal feeling well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking beyond the plate? Arrange the puffins on a wooden board for a rustic vibe at gatherings, or serve them in mini pots garnished with extra chives for a charming, individual presentation. These options make the Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe a showstopper for any occasion, from casual brunches to elegant dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover puffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping them chilled helps maintain their texture and flavor, making for an easy next-day snack or side.
Freezing
You can freeze these puffins by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to a month. This makes them a perfect ready-to-bake treat when you need a quick comfort food fix.
Reheating
To reheat, bake puffins in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through and crisp on the outside again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to soften the delicate crust.
FAQs
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of garlic and herb cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with regular cream cheese, but you might want to add some garlic powder and chopped herbs to mimic that specific savory flavor the garlic and herb cheese provides.
Are these puffins suitable for meal prep lunches?
Absolutely! They store well and reheat nicely, making them a convenient and tasty option for meal prepping lunches packed with comforting homemade goodness.
Can I make the puffin mixture ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the day before and keep it refrigerated. Just make sure to give it a good stir before portioning into the muffin tin for baking.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
The original Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe is naturally gluten-free assuming your mashed potatoes and cheeses are free from any additives containing gluten. Always check labels to be sure!
What’s the best way to get crispy tops on the puffins?
Brushing your muffin tin with melted butter instead of spray and using sharp cheddar on top helps achieve that beautifully crispy, golden surface everyone loves.
Final Thoughts
There’s something simply magical about this Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe—the mix of creamy potatoes, savory herbs, and melty cheese coming together in perfect harmony. It’s easy to make and so rewarding to eat whether for a family dinner or entertaining friends. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover just how much joy these puffins can bring to your table. Happy cooking!
Print
Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins are delightful bite-sized savory treats perfect for any occasion. Creamy mashed potatoes are mixed with garlic and herb cheese, sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and fresh chives, baked in a muffin tin until golden and set. They make a delicious side dish or appetizer served warm with sour cream and extra chives for garnish.
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 & Garnish
- ½ cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese (for sprinkling on top)
- 1 Tbsp chopped chives (for garnish)
- 1 (8 oz) container sour cream or crème fraîche (optional, for serving)
- Cooking spray or melted butter (for greasing muffin tin)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the puffins to a golden finish.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, garlic and herb soft cheese, 1 cup of shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of chopped chives, garlic salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Prepare Muffin Tin: Generously brush the cups of a 12-cup standard muffin tin with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent sticking and help with even browning.
- Portion Mixture: Using a 4 oz ice cream scoop or spoon, evenly divide the potato mixture among the 12 prepared muffin cups.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the tops of each filled cup with the remaining ½ cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese for a cheesy crust.
- Bake Puffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 23-25 minutes until the puffins are set in the center and the tops develop a golden brown color.
- Loosen Puffins: Remove the muffin tin from the oven and run a knife or thin spatula around the edges of each puffin to loosen them gently from the sides.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the puffins immediately while warm. Optionally, add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche and sprinkle with the remaining chopped chives for a fresh, flavorful finish.
Notes
- Use firm, well-chilled mashed potatoes to ensure the puffins hold their shape during baking.
- Feel free to substitute sharp white cheddar with a cheese of your choice, such as Gruyère or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.
- These puffins can be served as appetizers, side dishes, or a snack.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
- To make ahead, prepare the mixture and fill the muffin tin, then cover and refrigerate before baking.
