Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests Recipe – Crispy Baked Potatoes Filled with Cheese & Savory Toppings
This Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests Recipe is a fun and delicious twist on classic mashed potatoes. Fluffy mashed potatoes are shaped into nests, baked until golden and crisp, then filled with gooey cheese, veggies, or savory meats for a bite-sized treat that’s both comforting and impressive. Perfect as a holiday appetizer, party snack, or creative side dish, these potato nests are versatile and customizable with your favorite fillings. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines crispy edges with creamy centers for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling potatoes)
- Mixing bowls
- Potato masher or ricer
- Muffin tin or ramekins
- Oven
- Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled & boiled
- 3 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup milk (adjust for consistency)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or mix)
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits, spinach, mushrooms, or chicken (choose fillings)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing muffin tin
Instructions
- Prepare mashed potatoes: Boil potatoes until tender. Mash with butter, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika until smooth but thick. Chill slightly for firmness.
- Shape nests: Grease muffin tin. Spoon mashed potatoes into cups, pressing gently to form hollow “nests” with raised edges.
- Pre-bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes to crisp edges.
- Add fillings: Remove from oven. Fill each nest with cheese, meats, or vegetables.
- Bake again: Return to oven for 10–15 minutes until cheese melts and tops are golden.
- Cool & garnish: Let cool slightly before removing. Garnish with parsley or chives. Serve warm.
Notes
- Keep mashed potatoes thick—runny mash collapses.
- Grease muffin tin well to prevent sticking.
- Pre-bake nests before adding fillings for crisp edges.
- Chill mash before shaping for sturdier nests.
- Try variations: broccoli & cheese, bacon & cheddar, or breakfast-style with eggs.