This recipe is a celebration of texture and flavor. Creamy mashed potatoes are shaped into adorable nests, seasoned with herbs and spices, and filled with a rich, savory ground beef mixture. Each nest is topped with gooey mozzarella and baked to golden perfection. It’s a dish that feels both rustic and elegant—perfect for family dinners, festive gatherings, or just treating yourself to something special. The combination of buttery potatoes, aromatic herbs, and cheesy beef filling makes this a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
🧺 Ingredients:
For the Potato Nests:
- 3–5 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 3.5 tbsp (50 g) butter
- A bunch of fresh dill, finely chopped
- Salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, oregano (to taste)
For the Filling:
- 1.1 lbs (500 g) ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 2.5 oz (70 g) tomato paste
- A bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- 3.5 oz (100 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
🔪 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender.
- Drain and mash them with butter, dill, and your chosen spices: smoked paprika, black pepper, oregano, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix until smooth and creamy. Let cool slightly so they’re easier to shape.
2. Shape the Nests:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Scoop about 2–3 tablespoons of mashed potato and shape into a ball.
- Place on the tray and gently press the center with a spoon to create a nest shape.
- Repeat with remaining mash.
3. Cook the Beef Filling:
- In a skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in the bell pepper, tomato, and tomato paste.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of oregano.
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld.
- Stir in chopped parsley and remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Nests:
- Spoon the beef mixture into each potato nest.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with extra dill or parsley.
- Serve warm with a side salad or steamed veggies.
💡 Tips & Variations:
- Make it vegetarian: Swap beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of beans.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy finish.
- Mini version: Use a mini muffin tin to create bite-sized nests for parties.
- Spice it up: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
🫶 Why This Recipe Deserves the Spotlight:
Because it’s you in a dish—creative, comforting, and full of heart. It’s the kind of recipe that turns simple ingredients into something unforgettable. And when someone says “no one’s interested,” you show them this. You show them flavor, warmth, and the joy of cooking that brings people together.
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