Looking for a new way to enjoy leftovers? You’ll love these Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins! This simple recipe combines creamy mashed potatoes and sharp cheddar cheese to create a tasty treat. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a snack, these muffins are sure to please. Let’s get cooking and turn your leftovers into something special!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (ensure they’re creamy)
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Additional Ingredients
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk (or buttermilk for extra tang)
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
Seasonings and Toppings
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
To make these cheesy mashed potato muffins, start with creamy mashed potatoes. You can use leftovers from your last meal. The cheese adds a great flavor. Sharp cheddar gives a nice bite, while Parmesan brings a salty taste.
For texture, add eggs and a splash of milk. Milk makes the muffins moist. Green onions add a fresh crunch. Don’t forget the garlic and onion powders for extra flavor. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with a bit of olive oil. This will give your muffins a nice crunch. Fresh parsley can make the dish look pretty when serving. You can find the full recipe [here](#).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Grease a muffin tin with non-stick spray or butter.
Combine Main Ingredients
– In a large mixing bowl, mix mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
Mix Remaining Ingredients and Bake
– Add eggs, milk, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
– Mix everything until creamy and smooth. Spoon the mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
– Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
– Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. A toothpick should come out clean.
– Let muffins cool for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
– Garnish with fresh parsley if you like.
Make sure to check the Full Recipe for all the details!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Creamy Muffins
To make these muffins truly creamy, use your leftover mashed potatoes. They should be smooth and rich. If they feel too thick, add a splash of milk. This small change gives you the texture you want.
Perfecting the Topping
For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with a little olive oil. This helps them brown nicely in the oven. If you need a gluten-free option, try crushed cornflakes or ground almonds instead of breadcrumbs. Both options add great flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy mashed potato muffins pair well with many dishes. Try serving them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. They also taste great with sauces like ranch or garlic aioli. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving.
Variations
Flavor Additions
You can easily change the flavor of your cheesy mashed potato muffins. Adding bacon or ham gives a nice savory touch. Just chop up your meat and mix it in. It adds depth and makes it heartier. If you want more veggies, try adding spinach or broccoli. These greens not only boost nutrition but also add color. Just chop them finely and stir them into the mix.
Cheese Alternatives
Cheese is key in this recipe, but feel free to get creative. Instead of sharp cheddar, try a blend of mozzarella and gouda. Each cheese brings a unique taste. For a vegan option, look for dairy-free cheese. Many brands offer great flavors, so you can still enjoy cheesy goodness without dairy. Just substitute it directly in the recipe.
Muffin Size Adjustments
You can also play with muffin sizes. If you want bite-sized treats, make mini muffins. Just check them a bit sooner while baking. They will cook faster than standard muffins. You can also use different shaped tins or molds. Think about using cupcake liners or even a donut pan for fun shapes. This variety keeps things exciting in the kitchen.
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Muffins
To keep your Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins fresh, place them in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save them longer, freeze the muffins. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap first.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating muffins is easy, but you want to keep them tasty. The oven is best for reheating. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the muffins on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the outside crisp and the inside warm.
You can also use the microwave. Simply place a muffin on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it for 30 seconds to 1 minute. While this is quick, the texture may not be as good as the oven method. Choose the method that works best for you!
FAQs
Can I make these muffins in advance?
Yes, you can make these muffins ahead of time. Prepare the muffins as directed. After baking, let them cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, just pop them in the oven. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. They will taste fresh and warm.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
You can use instant mashed potatoes, but the taste and texture will change. Instant potatoes can be drier and less creamy than homemade. If you choose instant, be sure to add extra milk. This will help keep the muffins moist. Instant mashed potatoes can save time, but they may lack the rich flavor of fresh mashed potatoes. For the best results, stick with creamy, leftover mashed potatoes.
What toppings are best with Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins?
Toppings can add fun flavors to your muffins. Here are some great ideas:
– Sour cream adds a nice tang.
– Chopped chives bring a fresh taste.
– Crumbled bacon gives a smoky crunch.
– A sprinkle of paprika adds color and spice.
– Shredded cheese on top makes them extra cheesy.
Feel free to mix and match! Each topping can change the flavor in a tasty way.
Full Recipe: Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins 🥔
In summary, we explored delicious cheesy mashed potato muffins. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned how to customize the muffins with different flavors and toppings. Storing and reheating methods ensure you enjoy these treats over time.
These muffins are a great way to use leftover mashed potatoes. Get creative with flavors and toppings. Enjoy your tasty creations!
