Homemade cheesy potato gems
Homemade cheesy potato gems are a crispy, comforting snack made with tender potatoes, cheddar cheese, and baked for a delicious finish. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights, these gems are simple to prepare and easy to enjoy.
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
3 potatoes1/3 cup cheddar cheese
1 tbsp butter
Homemade cheesy potato gems are a delightful and crispy snack that's comforting and easy to prepare. Made with simple ingredients and loaded with cheesy goodness, they are perfect for any occasion, from a family gathering to a cozy night in.
Instructions:
- Peel the potatoes and rinse them thoroughly under cold water.
- Cut the potatoes into small chunks.
- Place the potato chunks in a large pot and fill it with enough water to cover the potatoes.
- Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring it to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and cook the potatoes for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Drain the cooked potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the butter and grated cheddar cheese to the potatoes.
- Mash the mixture until smooth and well combined. Ensure the cheese and butter are thoroughly mixed in.
- Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste.
- Allow the mashed potatoes to cool slightly until they are comfortable to handle.
- Using your hands, shape small portions of the mashed potatoes into gem or tot-sized pieces. You can aim for about 1-2 inches in length.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Place the shaped potato gems on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potato gems are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the potato gems to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the homemade cheesy potato gems hot, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces.
With this recipe, you can easily create your own batch of cheesy potato gems at home. The combination of tender potatoes and melted cheddar cheese is sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy these tasty treats hot and fresh, and don't forget to experiment with different cheeses and seasonings to make this recipe your own!
Homemade cheesy potato gems FAQ:
The potato gems are done baking when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, typically after 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). You can also test one by cutting it open to ensure the inside is warm and fully cooked.
Yes, you can substitute cheddar cheese with other types like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack, depending on your flavor preference. Just make sure the cheese melts well to maintain a creamy texture.
Store leftover potato gems in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
If the potato mixture is too loose and falls apart, try adding a small amount of flour or cornstarch to help bind the mixture. Ensure that the potatoes are fully mashed to avoid lumps.
Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture and shape the gems ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before baking. Just allow them to come to room temperature before placing them in the oven.
Cooking Tips:
- Choose starchy potatoes, such as Russets, for the best texture.
- Grate the cheese finely for even distribution and better melting.
- Make sure the potato mixture is well chilled before shaping to help them hold their form during cooking.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking when baking or frying.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique flavors, such as adding a touch of Parmesan or Gouda to the cheddar.
Nutrition Facts
4 ServingsCalories 180kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 27g
Fiber 3.15g
Sugar 1.28g
Fat 6g
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