Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests

Stuffed mashed potato nests have become one of my go-to recipes when I want to impress without fuss. This dish turns simple mashed potatoes into a fun, textured treat with a tasty surprise inside. Whenever I make them, the crispy golden edges and melty fillings get rave reviews from family and friends alike. You’ll find this is an easy way to elevate a classic side or even serve it as a hearty appetizer or light meal.

There’s a wonderful contrast between the soft, fluffy mashed potatoes and the savory stuffing that makes these nests stand out. In my kitchen, I like to customize the stuffing depending on what’s in the fridge—whether it’s cheese, bacon, vegetables, or herbs. Stuffed mashed potato nests feel familiar but with that extra wow factor, perfect for cozy nights or special occasions.

The key is using creamy mashed potatoes that hold their shape well once nestled and baked crisp. Getting that balance right took a few tries, but once I nailed it, these became a staple whenever I crave comfort with a little flair.

Ingredients for Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests

Getting your ingredients right is half the battle won. Here’s what you need to make these nests come alive:

• 3 cups mashed potatoes (preferably made with peeled, boiled potatoes mashed smooth with butter and milk)
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, depending on preference)
• ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped into small pieces (you can substitute with cooked ham or sausage)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (only the green parts for a mild fresh flavor)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten (helps bind the nests for structure)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds a subtle depth without overpowering)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (to brush on top for crispness)
• Optional: ½ cup cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms, chopped, if you want to add a veggie twist

Use well-drained mashed potatoes so your nests won’t be soggy. If your mashed potatoes are too moist, you can stir in a tablespoon of flour or some extra shredded cheese to help firm them up. The egg is key to hold everything together when baking.

Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests That Deliver 5 Irresistible Flavors

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Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests offer 5 mouthwatering flavors to satisfy your hunger and bring comfort in every bite

• Author: emma
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 nests
• Category: Side Dish
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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3 cups mashed potatoes (preferably made with peeled, boiled potatoes mashed smooth with butter and milk)

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, depending on preference)

½ cup cooked bacon, chopped into small pieces (you can substitute with cooked ham or sausage)

2 green onions, thinly sliced (only the green parts)

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt to taste

Freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons melted butter (to brush on top)

Optional: ½ cup cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms, chopped

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, avoiding overworking the potatoes.

Take about ⅓ cup of the potato mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place it into a muffin tin cup or on the baking sheet and press down the center to create a hollow for the filling.

Fill each hollow with shredded cheese, bacon bits, and green onions. If using spinach or mushrooms, fold them into the filling or sprinkle on top. Avoid overfilling.

Cover the filling with a small amount of mashed potato to create a nest shape, leaving a slight opening to peek through the stuffing.

Brush the nests with melted butter for a golden, crispy crust. Optionally sprinkle a little extra cheese on top.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, watching closely in the last 5 minutes for crispy, golden edges and tender centers.

Let the nests cool for about 5 minutes before removing them to help them set and prevent falling apart.

Notes

Stuffed mashed potato nests turn simple mashed potatoes into a fun, textured treat with crispy golden edges and melty fillings. This recipe is customizable with cheeses, bacon, vegetables, or herbs, perfect for cozy nights or special occasions.

How to Prepare Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests

This is the part where the magic happens. Follow these steps carefully to get the right texture and taste every time:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the mashed potato mixture: In a large bowl, combine your mashed potatoes, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Don’t overwork it to keep the potatoes light.
3. Form the nests: Take about ⅓ cup of the potato mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place it into a muffin tin cup or on the baking sheet and press down the center to create a hollow—this will hold the filling.
4. Add the stuffing: Fill each hollow with a bit of shredded cheese, bacon bits, and green onions. If using spinach or mushrooms, fold them into the filling or sprinkle on top. Don’t overfill to avoid spilling during baking.
5. Top the nests: Cover the filling with a small amount of mashed potato to create a nest shape, leaving a slight opening to peek through the stuffing.
6. Brush with melted butter: This step gives the nests a golden, crispy crust. You can also sprinkle a little extra cheese on top for more color and flavor.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes: Keep a close eye during the last 5 minutes. You want the nests crispy and golden around the edges but tender in the middle.
8. Cool slightly before removing: Letting the nests sit for 5 minutes helps them set so they won’t fall apart when you lift them.

These nests are best served warm, right out of the oven. The crispy edges with gooey cheese inside are irresistible.

Why You’ll Love These Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests

• Quick to make with common kitchen staples
• Customizable with your favorite fillings
• Fun presentation—it’s like edible little nests bursting with flavor
• Crispy outside, creamy inside for amazing texture contrast
• Perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prep
• Leftovers reheat well without losing their appeal

Tips for Success with Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests

• Use cold mashed potatoes straight from the fridge—they’re easier to shape
• Don’t overload the nests with filling; keep a good balance to avoid spills
• If you don’t have a muffin tin, shape the nests on a parchment-lined baking sheet carefully
• Try a fork to gently press down the potatoes in the muffin cups for even nests
• Brush extra butter on baking sheets to prevent sticking and add flavor
• Experiment with fillings like different cheeses, cooked sausage, or herbs to find your favorite combo
• Let nests rest a few minutes before serving for sturdier bites

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Nutritional values for stuffed mashed potato nests can vary widely based on specific ingredients and brands used. Factors such as the type of cheese, amount of butter, or inclusion of extra vegetables affect calories, fat, protein, and carbohydrate content. For precise nutrition information, it’s best to calculate based on your exact ingredient selection. This post provides a general recipe and does not offer detailed nutritional data.

Common Questions About Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests

Can I prepare the mashed potato nests ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the nests and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just cover the tray tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. If you want to prep even earlier, freeze the assembled nests on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container. Bake frozen nests, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What type of cheese works best for the filling?

Cheddar cheese provides a classic sharp, melty filling. You can also use mozzarella for stretchiness or mix Parmesan for a salty kick. Combining cheeses is a great way to boost flavor and texture.

Can I make these nests dairy-free or vegan?

Absolutely. Use dairy-free mashed potatoes made with plant-based butter and milk alternatives. For the filling, swap cheese for vegan cheese or seasoned sautéed vegetables. Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) as a binder instead of a chicken egg.

How should I store leftover stuffed mashed potato nests?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the crispy edges. Avoid microwaving for too long or they will get soggy.

Can I add other ingredients to the filling?

Definitely! Try cooked, crumbled sausage, caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. These nests are very forgiving and great for using up leftovers too.