If you’re looking for a fun, comforting way to enjoy a classic side with a twist, this Mashed Potato Cups Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine creamy mashed potatoes loaded with gooey cheddar cheese, fresh green onions, and a little sprinkle of savory meat nestled perfectly in individual crispy cups. These little bites bring that homestyle goodness with a new playful texture that’s perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or even as a charming appetizer. Once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed mashed potatoes any other way!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping this dish simple and straightforward is what makes it so irresistible. Each ingredient plays its part in creating the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures along with a touch of fresh flavor. From the fluffy russet potatoes to the sharp cheddar and green onions, every bit adds to this delightful experience.
- Russet potatoes: The starchy potatoes create fluffy, smooth mashed potatoes that hold their shape nicely in the cups.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that creamy texture in the mash.
- Milk: For a silky consistency, making each spoonful luscious and smooth.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharpness and melty goodness that binds everything together.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every flavor in the dish.
- Chopped green onions: Adds a fresh, slightly pungent bite to brighten up the creamy potatoes.
- Chopped meat (optional): A savory addition that perks up these cups with extra protein and heartiness.
- Olive oil spray: For greasing the muffin tin to ensure perfect, crispy edges on your potato cups.
How to Make Mashed Potato Cups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment and Potato
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing your muffin tin generously with olive oil spray. This step is crucial for those golden crispy edges. While the oven heats, peel and dice the russet potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook quickly and uniformly.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes Until Tender
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your diced potatoes. Let them simmer for 10 to 12 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Cooking the potatoes just right will help create the smooth, perfect mashed texture you’re aiming for in this Mashed Potato Cups Recipe.
Step 3: Mash Potatoes to Creamy Perfection
Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot while still warm. Mash them until they’re perfectly smooth, then fold in butter and milk slowly while stirring. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the natural potato flavor and create that comforting creaminess we all love.
Step 4: Mix in Cheese, Green Onions, and Meat
This is where the magic happens! Add shredded cheddar cheese to melt into the warm potatoes, toss in chopped green onions for freshness, and if you like, fold in chopped cooked meat for extra savoriness. Mixing these in while the mash is still warm helps meld all those flavors into one harmonious bite.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the greased muffin tin, pressing gently to form small cups with a bit of a rim. Pop them into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the edges turn beautifully golden and crisp. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and fluffy interior is what makes this Mashed Potato Cups Recipe so addictive.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the potato cups cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the tin. This resting time helps them set up so they hold their shape perfectly. Serve them warm and watch as everyone reaches for seconds!
How to Serve Mashed Potato Cups Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your mashed potato cups to another level. Sprinkle extra chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits on top right before serving for added texture and flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil can add indulgence that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
These mashed potato cups pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. They’re also a fantastic addition to holiday meals or casual gatherings, complementing everything from roast chicken to BBQ ribs, making your whole spread look and taste unforgettable.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests or family, try serving these mashed potato cups in a rustic wooden board with small bowls of dips, like spicy ketchup or creamy ranch. You can also top each cup with small herbs or edible flowers to brighten the look. The hand-held size makes them perfect for buffets or cocktail parties too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying these tasty bites, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining a good texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the mashed potato cups by placing them on a baking sheet to harden first, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cups stay good for about 2 months. When you’re ready, pop them back in the oven for a quick, delicious treat.
Reheating
To reheat, place the cups on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes or until heated through and crispiness returns. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crispy edges!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
While russet potatoes are ideal because of their starchy texture, you can experiment with Yukon Gold potatoes if you prefer a creamier taste, but they may result in a slightly different texture in your mashed potato cups.
Is it necessary to include meat in the Mashed Potato Cups Recipe?
Not at all! The meat is optional and adds a savory boost, but the cups are delicious on their own or can be adapted for vegetarian diets by skipping the meat altogether.
Can I prepare these mashed potato cups ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture and fill the muffin tin in advance. Just cover and refrigerate before baking, but be sure to add the baking time to ensure they crisp up nicely.
What if I don’t have cheddar cheese?
You can substitute with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of Parmesan for a different flavor profile. The key is using cheese that melts well.
Are mashed potato cups healthy?
These cups are comfort food and can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Using fresh green onions adds a bit of nutrition, and you can adjust butter and cheese amounts to suit your dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly joyful about transforming classic mashed potatoes into these delightful little cups that are as fun to eat as they are delicious. This Mashed Potato Cups Recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add some excitement to their meals without a lot of fuss. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to wow your taste buds and guests with this comforting and utterly satisfying dish!
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Mashed Potato Cups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and creamy mashed potato cups baked to golden perfection, featuring tender russet potatoes mixed with butter, milk, cheddar cheese, green onions, and optional chopped meat. These bite-sized potato cups make a perfect side dish or appetizer that’s crispy on the edges and soft on the inside.
Ingredients
Potato Base
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix-ins
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped meat (optional)
For Greasing
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Potatoes: Bring water to a boil in a large pot and add the diced potatoes. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes until smooth and free of lumps.
- Add Butter and Milk: Stir in the butter and milk gradually until the mixture reaches a creamy and smooth consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix in Cheese and Extras: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and chopped meat if using, ensuring even distribution throughout the mashed potatoes.
- Form Cups: Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the greased muffin tin cavities, pressing down gently to create cup shapes with slightly raised edges.
- Bake: Bake the cups in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and become crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the potato cups to cool for a few minutes in the tin before carefully removing them. Serve warm as a delightful side or appetizer.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chopped meat.
- You can substitute milk with cream or a dairy-free alternative for different textures.
- Try adding herbs like parsley or chives for additional flavor.
- Leftover mashed potato cups can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Use a non-stick muffin tin or ensure thorough greasing to prevent sticking.
