If you have leftover mashed potatoes and a craving for something warm, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy, you are going to love this Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe. These golden, crispy-edged muffins are packed with sharp cheddar, nutty Parmesan, and a touch of green onion for freshness, making them perfect little bites of comfort food. Whether you’re serving them as a side or craving a savory snack, these muffins are simple to whip up, totally customizable, and nothing short of addictive. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that turns humble mashed potatoes into a superstar dish your family and friends will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients, each chosen to build rich flavors and a perfect texture. The cheeses bring gooeyness and sharpness, the green onions add a mild bite, and simple seasonings tie everything together for a comforting but elevated dish.
- 2 cups mashed potatoes: Using cold or leftover mashed potatoes ensures the mixture holds together well for baking.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to give the muffins structure and a slight fluffiness.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides melty, sharp flavor that everyone loves.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth that enhances the overall taste.
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives: Brings a fresh, mild onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle garlic warmth that pairs perfectly with the cheeses.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors.
- Butter or cooking spray: For greasing the muffin tin to ensure easy removal and lovely crispy edges.
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your muffin tin with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and help form those crispy golden edges we all crave. Prepping the muffin tin upfront is key for smooth baking and easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, egg, cheddar, Parmesan, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until it is evenly mixed. This step is fun because you get to see all the beautiful cheeses and green specks of onion mingling together with the potatoes, promising all the flavors we’ll soon enjoy.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin
Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, spoon the potato mixture evenly into each muffin cup. Fill each about 3/4 full and then smooth out the tops with the back of your spoon. Don’t worry if they look rustic — that charm adds to their homemade appeal!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops turn a gorgeous golden color and the edges get nice and crispy. You’ll know they’re ready when an irresistible savory aroma fills your kitchen and the muffins hold their shape firmly.
Step 5: Cool Slightly and Serve
Allow the muffins to cool for about 5 minutes in the tin before gently removing them. This resting time helps them set, making it easier to pop them out without breaking. Serve warm for the most delightful melty cheese experience!
How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a little extra green onion on top to brighten these muffins visually and add a fresh note. A dollop of sour cream or a smear of creamy butter on each muffin makes a luscious finishing touch, perfect for extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
These cheesy muffins are wonderfully versatile, pairing beautifully alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of soup. Think of them as the perfect comfort food companion, warming up any meal or transforming a simple lunch into something special.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, consider serving the muffins on a platter with small bowls of dips like ranch, salsa, or a tangy sour cream chive sauce. They also make fantastic finger foods at parties or potlucks, where guests can enjoy them as bite-sized delights with ease.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making them an easy grab-and-go snack or quick addition to a meal later in the week.
Freezing
Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe is freezer-friendly! Arrange cooled muffins on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen muffins can be stored for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy the muffins later, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the oven helps restore their delightful crunch and melty interior.
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes to make Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe?
While fresh or leftover homemade mashed potatoes give the best texture and flavor, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch. Just make sure they’re well hydrated and not too dry before mixing with the other ingredients.
Can I add other mix-ins to this recipe?
Absolutely! Crumbled cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, roasted veggies, or even chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added to customize these muffins and bring in exciting new flavors.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, assuming all your cheeses and seasonings are gluten-free. It’s a great option for those avoiding gluten but craving comforting bites.
What is the best type of cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar and Parmesan are ideal for their bold flavors and melty qualities. However, you can experiment with gouda, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack for different delicious twists.
Can I make these muffins vegan or dairy-free?
To make a vegan or dairy-free version, substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use a flax or chia egg in place of the chicken egg. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary slightly but can still be quite tasty.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about turning something as classic as mashed potatoes into a fun, cheesy, hand-held treat. This Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe is a perfect example of simplicity meeting deliciousness — easy to make, wonderfully satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. I warmly encourage you to try this recipe, whether to use up leftovers or simply to enjoy a savory snack that feels like a warm hug. Your taste buds and loved ones will thank you!
Print
Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 muffins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and savory Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins made with leftover mashed potatoes, cheddar, Parmesan, and green onions. These baked muffins offer a crispy, golden exterior with a creamy, cheesy inside, perfect as a comforting side dish or snack.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably cold or leftover)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (or chives)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Greasing
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare muffin tin: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Fill muffin cups: Scoop the potato mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Smooth the tops slightly for even baking.
- Bake the muffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the muffin tops turn golden and the edges become crispy.
- Cool and serve: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes to firm up. Carefully remove the muffins from the tin and serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Great way to use leftover mashed potatoes and reduce food waste.
- Add crumbled bacon or cooked vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
- Using silicone muffin liners can make removal easier and cleanup quicker.
