Cheesy Ground Beef Potato Nest Cups – A 10-Minute Prep Dinner Sensation

Ingredients

For the Potato Nests

• 4-5 medium potatoes (600-750g/21-26 oz)
• 2 tablespoons (16g) cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons sunflower oil

For the Filling

• ½ pound (225g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion (150g), diced
• 1 bell pepper (150g), diced
• 1 large tomato (150g), diced
• 1½ cups (150g) shredded cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2-3 spring onions, finely chopped

Beef Seasoning Mix

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Essential Equipment

• 12-cup muffin tin
• Box grater
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium skillet
• Paper towels

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Phase (10 minutes)

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and generously grease your muffin tin.
2. Quick potato prep:

• Peel potatoes and grate them using the large holes
• Mix with cornstarch, salt, and pepper
• Press out moisture using paper towels

1. While handling potatoes:

• Brown ground beef in a skillet
• Add seasoning mix
• Drain excess fat

Assembly (5 minutes)

1. Create potato nests:

• Press mixture into muffin cups
• Shape up the sides
• Brush with oil

1. First bake: 15-20 minutes until edges brown
2. Layer your ingredients:

• Add seasoned beef
• Layer vegetables
• Pour beaten egg
• Top with cheese

1. Final bake: 10-12 minutes until cheese melts

Pro Tips for Success

1. Potato perfection:

• Squeeze out as much moisture as possible
• Don’t skip the cornstarch – it helps create crispy edges
• Press firmly when shaping nests

1. Time-saving tricks:

• Prep vegetables while potato nests bake
• Use pre-shredded cheese
• Brown beef while oven preheats

Nutritional Information

Per serving (2 cups):

• Calories: 285
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 3g

Storage and Reheating

• Store in airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes
• Best served fresh for maximum crispiness

Variations

1. Healthier options:

• Use ground turkey or chicken
• Add extra vegetables
• Use reduced-fat cheese

1. Flavor variations:

• Mexican: Add taco seasoning and jalapeños
• Italian: Use Italian seasonings and mozzarella
• Asian: Add ginger, garlic, and soy sauce to beef

Common Questions

1. Can I make these ahead?

• Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking
• Add an extra 5 minutes to baking time if cooking from cold

1. How do I ensure crispy nests?

• Thoroughly drain potatoes
• Don’t skip cornstarch
• Ensure oven is fully preheated

This recipe has become my go-to for impressing guests or creating a special family dinner with minimal effort. The combination of crispy potatoes, seasoned beef, and melted cheese creates a memorable meal that’s sure to become a regular request in your household.