These Loaded Mashed Potatoes Cups are a delicious and fun twist on traditional mashed potatoes. They are perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a tasty side dish for family dinners. Made with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, cheddar and Parmesan cheese, and fresh chives, these savory cups are baked to golden perfection in a muffin tin.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably made with russet or Yukon gold potatoes)
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or lightly brush with oil.
- Cook the Bacon: If you haven’t already, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces.
- Mash the Potatoes: If you don’t have pre-made mashed potatoes, make them fresh. Peel and boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper to your desired consistency.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, crumbled bacon, chopped chives, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season: Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Potato Cups
- Fill the Muffin Tin: Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup to the top and pressing down gently to compact the mixture.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle a little extra cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top of each cup for a cheesy crust.
Step 4: Bake the Potato Cups
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges are crispy.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the potato cups to cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes before removing them. This will help them hold their shape.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish: Garnish with extra chopped chives or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and presentation.
- Side Dish: Serve these loaded mashed potato cups as a side dish with grilled or roasted meats, or alongside a fresh salad.
- Appetizer: These cups make great appetizers for parties and gatherings. Serve with toothpicks for easy handling.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Gouda for a unique flavor twist.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, green onions, or corn for added color and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the potato mixture for a spicy variation.
- Herbs: Substitute or add other herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary for additional flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover potato cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: These cups can be frozen for up to 1 month. Place the cooled cups on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes.
Loaded Mashed Potatoes Cups are a delightful and versatile dish that brings a fun twist to classic mashed potatoes. They are easy to make and packed with flavor, making them a great choice for any meal or occasion. Whether you serve them as a side dish or an appetizer, these cheesy, bacon-filled potato cups are sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy the creamy, savory goodness of these loaded mashed potatoes in every bite!