Baked potato muffins are a delightful fusion of creamy mashed potatoes and the convenience of a muffin. These savory treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for dinner. They combine the comforting flavors of potatoes, cheese, and herbs into a crispy, golden-brown muffin that is both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re using leftover mashed potatoes or preparing them fresh, these muffins are a great way to enjoy a classic ingredient in a new and exciting form.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 12 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray or butter. This ensures the muffins don’t stick and makes for easy removal. - Prepare the Potato Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. - Fill the Muffin Tin:
Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, divide the potato mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Press the mixture down slightly to ensure a compact shape. - Add Extra Flavor:
Drizzle melted butter over each muffin for a richer taste. If you want an extra creamy texture, pour 1 tablespoon of heavy cream over each muffin before baking. - Bake the Muffins:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the muffins turn golden brown and crisp around the edges. - Final Touch:
Remove the muffins from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Return them to the oven for 3 more minutes to allow the cheese to melt beautifully. - Cool and Serve:
Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a serving dish. Garnish with extra chopped chives and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
- Serve alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
- Enjoy as a savory breakfast with eggs and bacon.
- Dip in ranch or barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
Tips for the Best Baked Potato Muffins:
- Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes: This recipe is perfect for repurposing leftovers. Just ensure they’re not too watery.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try mozzarella, Gouda, or feta for unique flavors.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for added nutrition.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate. When ready, simply fill the muffin tins and bake.
These baked potato muffins are a fantastic way to enjoy the comforting taste of potatoes in a fun, bite-sized form. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or just a cozy meal at home, they are sure to be a hit! 🥔🧀✨