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Golden Appalachian Cheesy Potato Puffs baked until crispy with a buttery Parmesan crust and fluffy mashed potato center loaded with sharp cheddar cheese and garlic. These old-fashioned homemade potato puffs are served warm on a rustic platter, making the perfect comfort food side dish for family dinners, holidays, and potlucks

Golden Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs

These Golden Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs are crispy on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside, and packed with buttery potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, garlic, sour cream, and a golden Parmesan crust. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or holiday favorite.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings: 24 potato puffs
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds russet potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Potato masher or potato ricer
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or nonstick cooking spray
  • pastry brush
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well and let them steam dry for 1 minute.
  2. Mash the potatoes until smooth.
  3. Stir in the softened butter, cheddar cheese, sour cream, beaten egg, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Let the mixture cool for 15–20 minutes.
  5. Roll into golf ball-sized portions and place on a prepared baking sheet.
  6. Brush each puff with melted butter and sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese.
  7. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Russet potatoes create the fluffiest texture.
Freshly grated Parmesan produces the crispiest crust.
Brush generously with butter for even browning.
Freeze before or after baking for convenient meal prep.
Serve with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or sour cream for dipping.