Crispy Cheesy Potato Poppers
These Crispy Cheesy Potato Poppers are a delightful appetizer or snack that will surely impress family and friends! Originally featured in our town newspaper, this recipe combines creamy mashed potatoes, melty cheese, and a crunchy cornflake coating to create an irresistible treat. Ideal for parties, game day, or simply as a comforting snack, these poppers are as a fun twist on traditional potato dishes. Your taste buds will thank you for trying out this local favorite!
5
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Potatoes
8 large (cooked and peeled)
Salt
1 teaspoon
Milk
1 cup
Onion Salt
1/2 teaspoon
Butter
1/4 cup (melted)
American or Cheddar Cheese
8 ounces (block cut into 1-inch cubes)
Corn Flakes
1 cup (crushed)
Butter
1/4 cup (melted for brushing)
Instructions
1
Begin by mashing the cooked and peeled potatoes in a large mixing bowl.
2
Add salt, milk, onion salt, and 1/4 cup of melted butter to the mashed potatoes and mix until smooth and well incorporated.
3
Cover the potato mixture and chill it in the refrigerator until firm, about 1 hour.
4
Once the potato mixture is firm, take out small portions and wrap them around the 1-inch cubes of cheese, shaping them into 2 1/2-inch balls.
5
Roll each potato ball in crushed corn flakes until generously coated.
6
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
7
Brush the tops of the cornflake-coated potato balls with the remaining 1/4 cup of melted butter.
8
Place the balls on slightly greased cookie sheets, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the poppers are heated through and golden brown.
10
Serve warm and enjoy your crispy cheesy potato poppers!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Cheesy Potato Poppers?
They are a delicious appetizer or snack made from mashed potatoes, a melted cheese center, and a crunchy cornflake coating.
How many potatoes are required for this recipe?
You will need 8 large potatoes that have been cooked and peeled.
What type of cheese is recommended?
The recipe suggests using 8 ounces of American or Cheddar cheese.
How should the cheese be prepared?
Cut the cheese into 1-inch cubes before wrapping the potato mixture around them.
What provides the crunchy coating for the poppers?
Crushed corn flakes are used to give the poppers their signature crispy exterior.
How much milk is used in the potato mixture?
One cup of milk is mixed into the mashed potatoes for a creamy texture.
Why do I need to chill the potato mixture?
Chilling the mixture for about 1 hour helps it become firm enough to shape into balls.
What temperature should I bake the potato poppers at?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long do the poppers need to bake?
Bake them for approximately 20 minutes or until they are heated through and golden brown.
How much butter is needed in total?
A total of 1/2 cup of melted butter is used: 1/4 cup inside the mixture and 1/4 cup for brushing the tops.
What size should the potato poppers be?
The potato balls should be shaped into approximately 2 1/2-inch spheres.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to make 5 servings.
What seasonings are added to the potatoes?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of onion salt.
Do I need to grease the cookie sheet?
Yes, place the balls on slightly greased cookie sheets to prevent sticking.
When should I brush the poppers with butter?
Brush the tops of the cornflake-coated balls with melted butter just before putting them in the oven.
Can I use a different type of cereal for the coating?
While the recipe specifies corn flakes for the best crunch, you could experiment with other unsweetened cereals or breadcrumbs.
Should the poppers be served hot?
Yes, they are best enjoyed when served warm so the cheese center remains melty.
What is the origin of this recipe?
This recipe was originally a local favorite featured in a town newspaper.
How do I ensure the poppers cook evenly?
Ensure that the poppers are not overcrowded on the baking sheet so the heat can circulate.
Can I substitute the onion salt?
If you do not have onion salt, you can use onion powder and a bit of extra salt as a substitute.
What makes these poppers a good party food?
Their bite-sized nature and combination of cheese and potatoes make them a crowd-pleasing finger food.
Is the potato mixture mashed or cubed?
The potatoes should be mashed until smooth before adding other ingredients.
Can I make these poppers ahead of time?
You can prepare and chill the potato mixture in advance; however, they are best baked fresh for maximum crispiness.
What tags describe this dish?
This dish is categorized as a snack, appetizer, and comfort food that is baked and crispy.
Can I use different cheeses for the center?
Yes, you can use any good melting cheese like Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients used to make these potato poppers.
What should the consistency of the potato mixture be?
It should be smooth and well incorporated, becoming firm after the chilling process.
Are these potato poppers fried?
No, these are a healthier baked alternative to traditional fried potato snacks.
How do I crush the corn flakes?
You can crush them by placing them in a plastic bag and rolling over them with a rolling pin or by hand.
Can I add other mix-ins to the potato dough?
While not in the original recipe, some people enjoy adding bacon bits or chives for extra flavor.