Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Side Dish
Elevate your dinner table with a delectable twist on traditional mashed potatoes—introducing Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups! These individual portions of creamy mashed potatoes, infused with aromatic garlic and savory Parmesan cheese, are baked to golden perfection, resulting in crispy edges and a fluffy interior. Whether served as a delightful side dish or showcased as the star of your meal, these potato cups are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the magic of these irresistible Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups!
Ingredients:
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes and minced garlic in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and garlic thoroughly.
- Mash Potatoes: Transfer the cooked potatoes and garlic to a large mixing bowl. Add the whole milk and unsalted butter to the bowl. Using a potato masher or fork, mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until evenly distributed throughout the mashed potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Incorporate Egg: Allow the mashed potato mixture to cool slightly, then beat in the large egg until well combined. This will help bind the mixture together for baking.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or butter, ensuring each cup is thoroughly coated.
- Form Potato Cups: Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the greased muffin tin, filling each cup to the top. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon or spatula for even baking.
- Bake: Place the filled muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potato cups are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the potato cups from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors and textures!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Bacon or Chives: For extra flavor, mix in cooked and crumbled bacon or finely chopped chives into the mashed potato mixture before baking.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, Gruyère, or Asiago for unique flavor variations.
- Make Ahead: These potato cups can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the muffin tin with plastic wrap and bake as directed when ready to serve.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: To make keto-friendly Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups, substitute cauliflower florets for the russet potatoes. Follow the same cooking instructions for boiling and mashing the cauliflower, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
- Low-Carb: For a lower-carb version, reduce the amount of potato used and increase the proportion of cauliflower. You can also use a low-carb milk alternative such as almond milk or coconut milk in place of whole milk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use pre-made mashed potatoes for this recipe? A: While homemade mashed potatoes yield the best results, you can use pre-made mashed potatoes as a time-saving alternative. Simply ensure they are seasoned to your liking before incorporating the cheese, egg, and other ingredients.
Q: Can I freeze leftover potato cups? A: Yes, leftover potato cups can be frozen for future enjoyment. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Q: Can I customize the seasoning in this recipe? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning in the mashed potato mixture with your favorite herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika for added flavor depth.
Q: Can I make mini potato cups for appetizers? A: Yes, you can use a mini muffin tin to create bite-sized potato cups perfect for appetizers or cocktail parties. Adjust the baking time accordingly for smaller portions.
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups are a delightful fusion of creamy mashed potatoes, aromatic garlic, and savory Parmesan cheese, baked to crispy perfection. Whether enjoyed as a comforting side dish or showcased as a creative appetizer, these potato cups are guaranteed to elevate any meal with their irresistible flavor and texture. With endless opportunities for customization and a keto-friendly option available, these potato cups are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Give this recipe a try and delight in the irresistible charm of Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups!
