Welcome to our delightful recipe for Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins! These savory puffins are the perfect blend of creamy mashed potatoes, rich cheeses, and aromatic herbs. Perfect as a side dish or a snack, these puffins will surely be a hit at your next family gathering or dinner party. The crispy cheese crust and fluffy interior make them irresistible, and they're so easy to make. Let's dive into the ingredients you'll need for this delectable dish.
Ingredients
To create these scrumptious Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups firm mashed potatoes, cold – Ensure your mashed potatoes are well-chilled to help the puffins hold their shape.
- 5.4 oz garlic and herb soft cheese (e.g., Alouette or Boursin) – This adds a rich, creamy texture and an aromatic garlic herb flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, divided – Sharp cheddar provides a tangy, robust flavor that complements the mild potatoes.
- 3 large eggs, beaten – Eggs act as a binder, helping the puffins stay together while baking.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese – Parmesan adds a nutty, salty depth to the flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives, divided – Fresh chives bring a mild onion-like flavor and a pop of color.
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt – Enhances the garlic flavor and seasons the potatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of heat and depth to the dish.
- 8 oz sour cream or crème fraîche – Optional for serving, providing a creamy, tangy contrast to the puffins.
These ingredients combine to create a mouthwatering dish that's both satisfying and flavorful. Now, let's move on to the detailed instructions to make these Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the puffins will bake evenly and develop a lovely golden-brown crust.
Prepare the Mixture: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, garlic and herb cheese, 1 cup of shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of chopped chives, garlic salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until the cheese is evenly distributed and all the ingredients are well combined. The cold mashed potatoes will help bind the mixture together, making it easier to scoop and shape later.
Prepare the Muffin Tin: Take a standard 12-cup muffin tin and generously brush each cup with cooking spray or melted butter. This step is crucial to prevent the puffins from sticking to the tin, ensuring they come out easily once baked. You can also use silicone muffin liners for easier removal.
Fill the Cups: Using a 4 oz ice cream scoop, evenly divide the potato mixture among the muffin cups. Each cup should be filled almost to the top. The ice cream scoop helps to portion the mixture evenly, ensuring consistent sizes and even baking.
Add the Topping: Sprinkle the tops of each puffin with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded sharp white cheddar cheese. This cheese topping will melt and form a deliciously crispy crust during baking, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 23-25 minutes. Keep an eye on the puffins during the last few minutes of baking to ensure they don't overcook. The puffins are done when they are set and the tops are golden brown. The aroma of baking cheese and herbs will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait until they are ready!
Serve: Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven. Run a knife around the edges of each puffin to loosen them from the tin. Carefully lift each puffin out and place them on a serving platter. Serve immediately while they are still warm, either plain or with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche. Garnish with the remaining chopped chives for a burst of fresh color and flavor.
These detailed steps will guide you through the process of making perfect Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins. Now, let's move on to some serving and storage tips, along with helpful notes about the recipe, including variations and quotes from well-known chefs.
Serving and Storage Tips
These Garlic Chive Mashed Potato Puffins are best served fresh out of the oven when they are warm and the cheese is gooey. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Helpful Notes About the Recipe
If you're looking to add a twist to this recipe, consider substituting the chives with fresh parsley or dill for a different herbaceous flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheeses, such as Gruyère or mozzarella, to create your own unique variation of these puffins.
Renowned chefs often emphasize the importance of using quality ingredients and ensuring thorough mixing to achieve the perfect texture in dishes like these. As Julia Child once said, "With enough butter, anything is good." This recipe certainly embraces the richness and flavor that good ingredients and careful preparation can bring to the table.