Mashed Potato Muffins are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Perfectly crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these savory muffins combine the rich flavors of mashed potatoes with a hint of herbs, making them an irresistible snack or side dish. Whether you’re looking for a creative way to use up leftover mashed potatoes or simply want to enjoy a new take on an old favorite, these muffins are sure to become a household staple.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile: These muffins are perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack. They pair well with a variety of main dishes and can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite herbs, cheeses, or even mix-ins like bacon or vegetables.
- Great for Leftovers: A perfect way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, turning them into something new and exciting.
Variations
- Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins: Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan cheese to the mashed potato mixture for an extra cheesy kick.
- Herbed Mashed Potato Muffins: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, chives, or dill for a unique flavor profile.
- Vegetable Mashed Potato Muffins: Mix in finely chopped vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Bacon and Onion Mashed Potato Muffins: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon and sautéed onions for a smoky, savory version.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezer: These muffins freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.
Nutritional Info
The nutritional content of these mashed potato muffins will vary based on the ingredients used, but they are generally a good source of carbohydrates and can be made more nutritious by adding vegetables or reducing the amount of added fat.
FAQ
- Can I make these muffins with sweet potatoes?
- Yes, sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for regular potatoes for a sweeter version.
- Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
- While fresh mashed potatoes are recommended for the best texture, instant mashed potatoes can be used in a pinch.
- What can I serve with these muffins?
- These muffins pair well with soups, salads, or as a side to meat dishes like roast chicken or steak.
Ingredients List
- 2 cups of mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup of milk or cream
- 1/2 cup of grated cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, egg, milk or cream, olive oil or melted butter, grated cheese (if using), dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Fill the Muffin Tin: Spoon the potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool slightly in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm.
Conclusion
Mashed Potato Muffins are a creative and delicious way to enjoy the comforting taste of mashed potatoes in a fun, portable form. Whether you’re looking to use up leftovers or just want to try something new, these muffins are sure to be a hit at your table.
Sources and References
Enjoy baking these savory treats and experimenting with different variations to suit your taste!