If you’re craving a comforting snack or a hearty side dish that brings a smile to every face, this Mashed Potato Cups Recipe is exactly what you need. These golden, crispy-edged little cups pack creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheddar, and flavorful green onions into a perfect bite-sized treat. Whether served warm at a family dinner or as a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, this dish combines simple pantry staples with a playful presentation that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Mashed Potato Cups Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward, yet each one plays an essential role in achieving that irresistibly creamy and crispy texture, along with bursts of flavor and color that make the dish pop.
- Russet potatoes: The classic choice for mashing, offering a fluffy, smooth texture that holds up well in baking.
- Butter: Adds richness and silkiness to the mashed potatoes for lusciousness in every bite.
- Milk: Helps create the perfect creamy consistency without weighing down the potatoes.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings a delightful sharpness and melts beautifully inside the cups.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors naturally.
- Chopped green onions: Deliver a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of bright color.
- Chopped meat (optional): Adds extra savory depth if you want to make these cups extra hearty.
- Olive oil spray: Perfect for greasing the muffin tin to ensure your cups come out with crisp edges and no stickiness.
How to Make Mashed Potato Cups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin thoroughly with olive oil spray to ensure the mashed potato cups don’t stick and develop golden, crispy exteriors. This step sets the stage for baking success and beautiful shaping.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes Until Tender
Place your peeled and diced russet potatoes into boiling water and cook them for 10 to 12 minutes. You want them tender enough to mash easily but not falling apart. This softness is crucial for getting that creamy mash texture that’s the heart of these cups.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes to Creamy Perfection
Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Mash them thoroughly until smooth—this is where texture matters so much. Any lumps will make it harder to form neat cups later on. The smooth base ensures your mashed potato cups hold together beautifully.
Step 4: Enrich the Mash
Stir in butter and milk to your mashed potatoes to create a luxuriously creamy mixture. Then season generously with salt and pepper to bring out all those cozy flavors. This step transforms ordinary mashed potatoes into a luscious filling for the cups.
Step 5: Mix in Cheese, Onions, and Optional Meat
Add shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and if you like, some chopped meat for extra heartiness. The cheese melts throughout, the onions add freshness, and the meat gives a satisfying savory punch—combining for a mouthwatering mixture.
Step 6: Shape and Fill Your Cups
Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the greased muffin tin cups, pressing down gently but firmly. This shaping forms the characteristic cup shape that can hold toppings or simply be enjoyed on its own. It’s a fun step that turns mashed potatoes into something special.
Step 7: Bake Until Crispy and Golden
Bake the mashed potato cups for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn golden brown and develop a satisfying crispness that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior. This baking time creates the dish’s delightful texture.
Step 8: Cool and Serve Warm
Let your finished mashed potato cups cool slightly in the pan before carefully removing them. Serving warm ensures your guests get the full experience of melty cheese and tender potatoes with that irresistible crisp shell.
How to Serve Mashed Potato Cups Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate these mashed potato cups to the next level. A sprinkle of extra chopped green onions or fresh herbs like parsley adds brightness and a fresh finish. You might also drizzle a touch of sour cream or a few dots of hot sauce to contrast those comforting flavors and add a lovely tang.
Side Dishes
Mashed Potato Cups Recipe pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Think roasted veggies, a crisp green salad, or even a protein like grilled chicken or pork. They also make a fantastic appetizer for a party, working well alongside dips and finger foods for a crowd-pleasing spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these cups in mini muffin tins for charming individual portions, especially for parties. You can also use them as edible “bowls” for toppings like chili, sour cream, or even a gooey cheese dip. Presentation is half the fun, so get creative with plating to wow your friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover mashed potato cups, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When properly stored, they maintain their creamy texture and crisp edges can be restored with reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze these cupcakes if you want to make them in advance. After they are fully baked and cooled, wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months without losing quality.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the cups in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed through and the edges regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it can make the cups soggy and lose that delightful texture you worked for.
FAQs
Can I make Mashed Potato Cups Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the chopped meat or replace it with a vegetarian-friendly protein like sautéed mushrooms or crumbled tofu. The cheese and green onions provide plenty of flavor on their own, keeping the dish delicious and satisfying.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal because they become fluffy and mash easily, which is essential for forming smooth, creamy cups. Waxier potatoes might produce a denser texture and won’t crisp up as nicely when baked.
Can I use different cheeses?
Of course! Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella for gooeyness, gouda for a smoky touch, or even parmesan for a sharp bite. Mixing cheeses can add depth and interest to your mashed potato cups.
How do I prevent mashed potatoes from sticking to the muffin tin?
Greasing the muffin tin well with olive oil spray is the key. You can also lightly dust the cups with a bit of flour or breadcrumbs for extra non-stick security and to add a crunch to the edges.
Can I add other mix-ins to the mashed potatoes?
Definitely! Cooked bacon bits, roasted garlic, herbs like rosemary or thyme, and sautéed onions all make wonderful additions. Adding different textures and flavors personalizes the dish and makes it even more irresistible.
Final Thoughts
This Mashed Potato Cups Recipe is one of those comforting yet playful dishes that can brighten up any meal or occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a crowd-pleasing treat that’s creamy inside, crispy outside, and bursting with flavor. I encourage you to try this recipe soon, experiment with your favorite mix-ins, and share the joy of these delightful potato cups with friends and family!
Print
Mashed Potato Cups Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delicious and creamy mashed potato cups baked to golden perfection. These savory bites are filled with cheddar cheese, green onions, and optional chopped meat, making for a comforting appetizer or side dish. Easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or family meals.
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 Preparation
- Olive oil spray for greasing muffin tin
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin using olive oil spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the mashed potato cups.
- Cook Potatoes: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes or until they are tender when poked with a fork.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes using a masher or fork until smooth and free of lumps.
- Add Butter and Milk: Stir in the butter and milk gradually to create a creamy texture. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Incorporate Mix-ins: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and the optional chopped meat if using. This adds flavor and texture to the mashed potato mixture.
- Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the mashed potato mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin cups. Press down gently to shape the mixture into cups for filling.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Bake until the edges of the potato cups turn golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the mashed potato cups to cool for a few minutes in the tin before removing. Serve warm to enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness at its best.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chopped meat.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with any cheese of your choice, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
- Try adding herbs like chives or parsley for extra flavor.
- If you want a crispier cup, broil for the last 2-3 minutes watching closely to avoid burning.
- These cups can be prepared a day ahead and reheated in the oven before serving.
