Mashed Potato Puffs

Makes 12 to 24 puffs, depending the size of the pan used

Cooking spray or butter
2 cups cooked mashed potatoes
3 large eggs, beaten
1 cup grated cheese, such as Parmesan or Gruyère, divided
1/4 cup minced fresh chives
1/4 cup diced cooked bacon or ham (optional)
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Sour cream, for serve (optional)

Arrange a rack in the middle of oven and heat to 400°F. Lightly coat the cups of a mini-muffin tin with cooking spray or butter.

Place the mashed potatoes, eggs, 3/4 cup of the cheese, chives, and bacon or ham in a large bowl and stir to combine. Season, if necessary, with salt and pepper. The seasoning will depend on how seasoned your mashed potatoes were to begin with.

Fill each muffin cup with the mashed potatoes. Sprinkle the tops with the remaining 1/4 cup cheese.

Bake until the potato cups are set, browned on top, and heated through, about 20 minutes. Let cool for about 5 minutes in the pan, then use a spoon or knife to gently release them from the pan. Serve immediately with dollops of sour cream, if desired.

Recipe Notes

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and re-crisp, arrange the puffs on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 15 minutes (depending on size).

More Flavoring Ideas for Mashed Potato Puffs

• Loaded Baked Potato: Cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, chopped green onions, served with sour cream and chives.
• Curried Potato Puffs: 1 teaspoon curry powder (or to taste), chopped red onion, chopped jalapeño pepper, served with yogurt and cucumber.
• Goat Cheese & Spinach: Fine chopped spinach, minced garlic, crumbled goat cheese.
• Italian-Inspired: Finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chopped basil, finely chopped shallots, served with a smear of tomato sauce.

Updated from recipe originally published November 2010.