If you love the comforting, creamy goodness of mashed potatoes but want to enjoy them in a fun and portable way, you are going to adore this Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe. These golden, cheesy muffins are the perfect way to transform simple leftovers or freshly made mashed potatoes into a delightful snack or side dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Trust me, once you try these, they will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe uses straightforward, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create irresistible flavor and texture. Each component plays its own vital role, making sure your muffins turn out perfectly cheesy, savory, and fluffy with just the right amount of moisture and bite.
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes: Leftovers work great here; make sure they are cooled for the best binding texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds rich, gooey cheesiness that melts beautifully into every bite.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Acts as a natural binder to hold the muffins together perfectly.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional): Brings a fresh, mild onion flavor and color contrast.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps give structure while keeping the muffins tender.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Elevates the savory depth without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing every ingredient’s natural taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a little kick to balance the richness.
- 1/4 cup milk: Keeps the batter smooth and moist without being runny.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing): Creates a luscious golden crust and extra richness on top.
How to Make Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and prepare your muffin tin
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get ready by either greasing a muffin tin or lining it with paper liners. This step is crucial to make sure your muffins lift out easily and bake evenly, setting the stage for delicious results.
Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients and cheese
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, and chopped green onions if using. This blend brings together the creamy base, bold flavors, and freshness, ensuring every muffin is packed with that irresistible cheesy potato goodness.
Step 3: Add the dry seasonings and flour
Sprinkle in the flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly so every bite has a beautiful balance of seasoning and structure—the flour helps the muffins firm up while garlic and pepper lift the overall flavor profile.
Step 4: Incorporate the milk to smooth the batter
Pour in your milk and mix until the batter is smooth and slightly thick but still easy to spoon. Achieving the right consistency now is key because it ensures your muffins will be moist inside yet hold their shape.
Step 5: Fill the muffin cups
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. This allows room for the muffins to rise without spilling over, giving you perfectly shaped bites every time.
Step 6: Optional butter brush for golden tops
If you want to take these Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe to the next level, brush the tops with melted butter. This step produces an irresistible golden crust with a rich buttery flavor that makes them extra special.
Step 7: Bake until set and golden
Pop the muffins into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are lightly browned and the muffins feel set to the touch—ready to bring warm comfort to your table.
Step 8: Cool and serve
Allow your muffins to cool slightly before carefully removing them from the tin. Serve them warm for the best texture and flavor—they make an ideal snack, side dish, or even hearty breakfast choice.
How to Serve Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your mashed potato muffins visually and flavor-wise. Try a sprinkle of chopped chives, extra shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream on top to complement the savory flavors and add a pop of color that’s as inviting as it is tasty.
Side Dishes
These muffins pair beautifully with a variety of meals. Serve alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a steaming bowl of soup for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. They also make excellent companions for grilled meats or a brunch spread, balancing hearty proteins with soft, cheesy comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by turning your Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe into mini sliders by adding a slice of ham or turkey and a spread of mustard or aioli. Or try stuffing the muffins with crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions before baking for a delightful surprise inside each bite. The possibilities are deliciously endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover muffins in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This way, you can conveniently enjoy your Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe without feeling rushed, making them a great option for leftovers or meal prepping.
Freezing
These muffins freeze wonderfully for longer storage. After they cool completely, arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months, perfect for spontaneous snacks or busy weeknight sides.
Reheating
Reheat your muffins in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the oven helps maintain their crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and creamy—just like fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use freshly made mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh mashed potatoes work great, just make sure they’re cooled before mixing to avoid making the batter too runny. This helps your muffins hold their shape and bake evenly.
What types of cheese work best in these muffins?
Cheddar cheese is classic for its sharp flavor and melty texture, but you can experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack to add a unique spin. Just be sure to shred it finely for even distribution.
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. You may need to adjust the quantity slightly to achieve the right batter consistency, but the muffins should turn out just as delicious.
Are these muffins suitable for freezing and reheating?
Definitely. Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe freezes and reheats beautifully, making them perfect for batch cooking and quick snacks. Just follow proper freezing and reheating instructions to keep their texture intact.
Can I add other mix-ins to the batter?
Yes! Feel free to fold in cooked bacon, diced ham, sautéed mushrooms, or different herbs like rosemary or thyme. These additions add extra flavor and make each batch uniquely yours.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe is truly a game changer in turning simple mashed potatoes into a versatile, mouthwatering treat. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or just craving a cozy snack, these muffins bring warmth and joy to every bite. Give this recipe a whirl—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 muffins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Easy Mashed Potato Muffins transform leftover or freshly made mashed potatoes into delightful, cheesy, and savory bite-sized muffins. Perfect as a side dish or a snack, they combine creamy mashed potatoes with sharp cheddar and green onions, baked to golden perfection for a comforting treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (or freshly made, cooled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a muffin tin with paper liners to ensure easy removal of the muffins.
- Mix Potato Base: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, and chopped green onions. Mix thoroughly to blend all the main flavorful ingredients.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Incorporate the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper into the potato mixture. Stir well until everything is evenly distributed.
- Add Milk: Pour in the milk and mix until the batter becomes smooth and slightly thick, ensuring the right consistency for muffin batter.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the potato mixture evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each cup about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
- Brush with Butter (Optional): For a rich golden crust, brush the tops of the muffins with melted butter before baking.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the muffins are fully set and the tops turn lightly browned.
- Cool and Serve: Let the muffins cool slightly in the tin before removing them. Serve warm as a comforting side dish or a savory snack.
Notes
- You can use freshly made mashed potatoes or leftovers; just ensure they are cooled.
- For a more intense flavor, try adding crispy bacon bits or herbs like chives or parsley.
- To make these muffins gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Brushing with melted butter is optional but adds extra richness and helps create a crisp crust.
- Store leftover muffins in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- These muffins freeze well; freeze individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
