These crispy, golden mashed potato cups are the perfect blend of comfort and creativity! With a crunchy exterior and creamy interior, they make an ideal appetizer or side dish for any meal. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or looking for a fun twist on traditional mashed potatoes, these cups are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these mashed potato cups bring together the best of both worlds: the crispy, golden edges and the creamy, cheesy center. They’re a wonderful way to enjoy mashed potatoes in a new and fun form. Plus, they’re customizable! I can add different ingredients like meat or extra cheese to suit my taste. These cups make a fantastic appetizer for a party or a unique side dish for dinner. The best part is that they’re so easy to make, and the result is always a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
3 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped meat (optional)
Olive oil spray for greasing
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin with olive oil spray.
In a large pot, I bring water to a boil and cook the diced potatoes for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re tender.
After draining the potatoes, I return them to the pot and mash them until smooth.
I add butter and milk to the mashed potatoes, stirring until everything is creamy. then season with salt and pepper to taste.
I mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and chopped meat (if I’m using it).
Then I spoon the mashed potato mixture into the muffin tin, pressing down gently to form little cups.
After that I bake them for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges of the potato cups are golden brown and crispy.
Once they’re done, I let them cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. Then, I serve them warm and enjoy!
Servings and timing
Servings: 12 cups
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
Cheese: I can use different types of cheese like mozzarella or Parmesan to give the cups a different flavor.
Meat: If I’m craving extra protein, I can add bacon, ham, or sausage to the mashed potatoes for added flavor.
Veggie: For a lighter version, I might swap out the cheese and meat and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a savory twist.
Spices: I like to experiment with spices like garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper for a little extra kick.
Storage/Reheating
These mashed potato cups are great for meal prep! If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to crisp up the edges again. I can also microwave them if I’m in a hurry, but they won’t be as crispy.
Related Recipes:
FAQs
Can I make these mashed potato cups ahead of time?
Yes, I can make these cups a day or two in advance! Simply prepare them, let them cool, and store them in the fridge. Before serving, I just reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to get that crispy texture back.
Can I freeze mashed potato cups?
I can freeze these cups! After baking, I let them cool completely and then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When I’m ready to eat them, I thaw them in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the oven.
Can I use a different type of potato?
Although russet potatoes work best for a fluffy texture, I could also use Yukon Gold potatoes or red potatoes if I prefer. They may have a slightly different texture but will still taste great.
Are mashed potato cups suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these mashed potato cups can be made vegetarian by simply leaving out the meat and using a vegetarian cheese option. They’re still delicious!
Can I add sour cream to the mashed potatoes?
Definitely! If I love the tanginess of sour cream, I can add a few spoonfuls to the mashed potatoes along with the butter and milk for a creamier texture.
Conclusion
These mashed potato cups are a fantastic and fun way to enjoy mashed potatoes. With their crispy edges and creamy centers, they’re perfect for a quick meal or as a crowd-pleasing side dish. Whether I’m making them for a family dinner, a party, or just because, they’re always a hit. The best part is the endless customization options, allowing me to tailor the recipe to my preferences. So go ahead, give these mashed potato cups a try, and enjoy a comforting yet creative dish that will surely become a favorite!
📖 Recipe:
Print
Mashed Potato Cups
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These crispy Mashed Potato Cups are a fun and delicious twist on traditional mashed potatoes, offering a golden exterior and creamy, cheesy interior. Perfect for any meal, these cups are customizable with ingredients like meat or extra cheese, making them a versatile appetizer or side dish. Ideal for family dinners, parties, or meal prep!
Ingredients
3 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped meat (optional)
Olive oil spray for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin with olive oil spray.
- Bring water to a boil in a large pot and cook the diced potatoes for 10-12 minutes until tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot, mashing them until smooth.
- Stir in butter and milk until creamy, then season with salt and pepper.
- Mix in shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and chopped meat (if using).
- Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the muffin tin, pressing down gently to form cups.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Let cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin and serving warm.
Notes
Customize the cheese, meat, or add sautéed vegetables for different variations.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for crispy edges.
Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days or frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 cups
- Calories: 180 kcal
