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Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests

Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests

Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests are a comforting and visually charming dish combining creamy mashed potatoes with customizable flavorful fillings. With crispy edges and gooey centers, these easy-to-make nests are perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining guests, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 stuffed mashed potato nests 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 4 large Russet potatoes (starchy potatoes for fluffy mash)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup warm milk or cream
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Cheese Options

  • 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Swiss, or cheese blend)

Fillings

  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
  • 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
  • 1/2 cup cooked spinach (wilted)
  • 1/4 cup caramelized onions

Optional Toppings

  • Additional shredded cheese for topping
  • Breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the mashed potatoes: Peel and dice the Russet potatoes. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well and mash with butter, warm milk or cream, salt, and pepper until smooth but still slightly textured. Stir in the beaten egg to help the mash hold its shape during baking.
  2. Shape the potato nests: Grease a muffin tin thoroughly or line it with silicone baking cups. Spoon the mashed potatoes into each cup and use your fingers or the back of a spoon to press the mash up the sides, creating a bowl or nest shape that leaves space in the center for fillings.
  3. Add the fillings: Fill each nest generously with your chosen fillings such as shredded cheese, cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or herbs. Pack fillings firmly but don’t overfill.
  4. Top and bake: Optionally sprinkle extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top of each nest for added crispness. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until the nests are golden brown, bubbly, and cooked through.
  5. Cool and serve: Let the nests cool for a few minutes in the tin to firm up. Carefully remove and transfer to plates. Serve warm for the best gooey and crispy texture experience.

Notes

  • Use starchy potatoes like Russets for fluffy, crisp nests.
  • Do not over-mash the potatoes; small lumps help texture and prevent gluey nests.
  • Chill the shaped nests in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before baking to help them hold their form better.
  • Pre-cook all fillings to avoid soggy nests and ensure even baking.
  • Use non-stick spray or silicone muffin liners to easily remove nests without breaking.
  • Leftover mashed potatoes can be used; adjust consistency if too runny and add an egg for binding.
  • For gluten-free, omit breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free alternative.
  • For vegan version, replace butter and cheese with plant-based alternatives and use a flax egg as a binder.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 nest
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: stuffed mashed potato nests, mashed potato recipe, potato appetizers, cheesy potato nests, easy potato recipe, gluten free appetizer