Description
These Mashed Potato Cups are a delightful twist on classic mashed potatoes, baked in muffin tins to create crispy, golden edges and creamy centers. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a savory snack, they combine fluffy potatoes with melted cheddar, green onions, and an optional touch of meat for added flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes and Dairy
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Seasoning and Extras
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped meat (optional)
- Olive oil spray for greasing muffin tin
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a muffin tin with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the mashed potato cups.
- Cook Potatoes: In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil and add the diced russet potatoes. Cook them for 10-12 minutes until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Mash them until smooth, creating a creamy base for your cups.
- Add Butter, Milk, and Season: Stir in the butter and milk until the mixture becomes creamy and well combined. Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Mix in Cheese and Extras: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and the optional chopped meat evenly into the mashed potatoes for added flavor and texture.
- Form Potato Cups: Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the greased muffin tin compartments. Press down gently to shape them into compact cups that will hold their form while baking.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake the mashed potato cups for 20-25 minutes. Bake until the edges turn golden brown and crispy, adding a satisfying texture contrast.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cups to cool in the tin for a few minutes before carefully removing them. Serve warm as a delicious side dish or appetizer.
Notes
- You can omit the meat to make this recipe vegetarian.
- For extra crispiness, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before baking.
- Use sour cream instead of milk for a tangier flavor and creamier texture.
- Leftover mashed potato cups can be reheated in a toaster oven for best texture retention.
- Feel free to add herbs like chives or parsley for added freshness.
