Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests – Easy Comfort Food Appetizer Recipe
Stuffed mashed potato nests are a creative twist on classic comfort food! Creamy mashed potatoes are shaped into nests, baked until golden, and filled with savory stuffing or toppings of your choice. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or as a fun appetizer that’s sure to impress.
Equipment
- Muffin tin or ramekins
- Mixing bowls
- Potato masher or ricer
- Oven
- Spoon or spatula
- Pastry brush (for butter)
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 3 tbsp butter (plus extra for brushing)
- ½ cup milk or cream
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or feta)
- ½ cup cooked bacon or ham (optional)
- ½ cup sautéed vegetables (spinach, peppers, mushrooms)
- Fresh herbs (parsley, chives) for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes: Mash boiled potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Chill slightly for firmness.
- Shape Nests: Spoon mash into a greased muffin tin. Press down and create hollows in the center.
- Pre-Bake: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes until edges begin to crisp.
- Add Fillings: Remove from oven. Fill nests with cheese, bacon, or vegetables. Crack an egg into breakfast versions if desired.
- Bake Again: Return to oven for 10–15 minutes until fillings are melted or cooked through.
- Finish & Serve: Brush edges with melted butter for extra crispness. Garnish with herbs. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use thick mashed potatoes—watery mash collapses.
- Chill mash before shaping for stability.
- Don’t overfill—moderate fillings prevent spills.
- Pre-bake nests for crisp edges.
- Customize with holiday fillings (turkey & cranberry) or Mediterranean flavors (feta & olives).