Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe

Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins are the perfect blend of comfort food and innovation, offering a cheesy, savory bite in a fun, muffin-sized form. They’re great as a side dish, snack, or appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of mashed potatoes (freshly made or leftovers)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added crunch)
• Fresh herbs (such as chives or parsley for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Grease or line a muffin tin with paper liners to ensure the muffins don’t stick.
2. Prepare the Mashed Potato Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with milk, melted butter, and the egg. Stir until smooth and well combined.
   • If your mashed potatoes are a little lumpy, you can use a whisk to break them down for a creamier texture.
3. Add Flavor and Cheese:
   • Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   • If you’re adding green onions, mix them in now.
   • Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
4. Fill the Muffin Tin:
   • Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
   • Optionally, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added texture and crunch.
5. Bake:
   • Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
   • You can test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin—it should come out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
   • Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the muffins cool for a few minutes in the tin.
   • After cooling slightly, transfer them to a wire rack to continue cooling.
   • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins:

• Fresh Mashed Potatoes: For the best texture, use freshly made mashed potatoes. They provide a creamier consistency that holds the muffins together better.
• Add-ins for Extra Flavor: Feel free to get creative with your muffins by adding cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions, or even some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• For Fluffier Muffins: Substitute some of the mashed potatoes with ricotta or cream cheese to make the muffins fluffier and even more creamy.
• Meal Prep: You can prepare the muffin batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Then, just bake it when you’re ready for fresh, hot muffins.
• Try Different Cheeses: If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting cheddar with mozzarella, gouda, or sharp cheddar for unique flavors.
• Make It Gluten-Free: If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them altogether. The muffins will still hold together and be delicious!

Conclusion:

Cheesy mashed potato muffins are a fun and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. With their creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and golden-brown tops, these muffins will be the star of any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, they’ll quickly become a crowd favorite. Customize them to your liking and enjoy a delicious new way to enjoy mashed potatoes!