🧀🥔 Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs (Mediterranean-Inspired)

A scrumptious reinvention of classic mashed potatoes — these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are creamy on the inside, golden and slightly crisp on the outside, and packed with savory Mediterranean flavor. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a brunch addition!

They’re:
✔ Crispy outside, fluffy inside
✔ Kid-friendly
✔ Great for leftovers
✔ Freezer-friendly
✔ Perfect party bite

📝 Description

Imagine your favorite creamy mashed potatoes — upgraded with herbs, olive oil, and cheese — then baked in muffin tins until puffed and golden.

The edges caramelize slightly while the centers stay tender and cheesy. A touch of feta and oregano gives them a subtle Mediterranean twist without overpowering the comforting flavor we all love.

These are ideal for using up leftover mashed potatoes and transforming them into something exciting and elegant.

🛒 Ingredients (Makes 12 puffs)

3 cups mashed potatoes (cooled)
1 cup shredded mozzarella or mild cheddar
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 eggs
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp grated Parmesan
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & black pepper to taste

Optional:

2 tbsp finely chopped spinach
1 tbsp chopped sun-dried tomatoes

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with olive oil or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Mix

In a large bowl, combine:

Mashed potatoes
Shredded cheese
Feta
Eggs
Olive oil
Parmesan
Parsley
Oregano
Garlic powder
Salt & pepper

Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Fill Muffin Tin

Spoon mixture evenly into muffin cups.
Fill almost to the top and lightly press down.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes, until:

Tops are golden
Edges slightly crisp
Centers set

Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pan.

🌿 Mediterranean Nutrition Boost

Olive oil → heart-healthy fats
Feta → calcium + protein
Fresh herbs → antioxidants
Potatoes → potassium & fiber

When paired with vegetables and lean protein, these can fit beautifully into a balanced Mediterranean meal.

🍽 Serving Ideas

Serve with:

Greek salad
Grilled chicken
Lentil soup
Yogurt garlic dip
Roasted vegetables

They also make an excellent brunch side with eggs.

🔥 Make It Lighter

Use part-skim cheese
Add grated zucchini or cauliflower to reduce carbs
Replace half potatoes with mashed cauliflower

❓ Q & A

1️⃣ Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for leftovers.

2️⃣ Can I freeze them?

Absolutely. Freeze after baking. Reheat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.

3️⃣ Can I make them gluten-free?

They already are — no flour required.

4️⃣ Why are my puffs flat?

They may need more egg for structure or slightly longer baking time.

5️⃣ Can I make them dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip feta.

6️⃣ Can I air fry them?

Yes — 375°F for 10–12 minutes in silicone muffin cups.