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why make this recipe
Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests are a delicious and fun twist on traditional mashed potatoes. They combine creamy mashed potatoes with a savory beef filling, making a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy. These nests not only look great but also taste amazing! They are perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
how to make Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests
Ingredients
- 3–5 large potatoes
- 3.5 tbsp (50 g) butter
- A bunch of fresh dill, chopped
- Salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, oregano (to taste)
- 1.1 lbs (500 g) ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 2.5 oz (70 g) tomato paste
- A bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- 3.5 oz (100 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
Directions
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Peel and boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash them with butter, salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, and oregano. Stir in the chopped fresh dill and set aside to cool slightly.
Cook the Filling: In a skillet, sauté the onion in a little oil until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper, cooking for 2–3 minutes. Then, stir in the ground beef and cook until it’s browned. Add the diced tomato, tomato paste, salt, and spices. Cook the mixture until it thickens. Stir in the chopped parsley and remove from heat.
Assemble the Nests: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Shape the mashed potatoes into small nests using your hands or a spoon, making sure to leave space in the center for the filling.
Stuff and Bake: Fill each nest with the beef mixture and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake them in the oven for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve: Let the nests cool slightly and serve them warm.
how to serve Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests
Serve these nests warm, either on their own or with a side salad for a complete meal. They make a great appetizer or main dish and are sure to impress your guests!
how to store Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving to enjoy them again.
tips to make Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests
- To make the mashed potatoes creamier, you can add a splash of milk or cream.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the beef filling, like mushrooms or zucchini, to enhance the flavors.
- Ensure the nests are not too thick, so they hold their shape while baking.
variation
For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or cooked mushrooms.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests are the perfect blend of comfort food and creativity. They’re crispy, cheesy, customizable, and undeniably delicious. Whether you’re using up leftovers or whipping them up from scratch, these potato nests are sure to please a crowd.
Get the whole family involved by letting everyone build their own custom filling—it’s a fun and delicious way to bring everyone together around the table.
So next time you’re staring at a bowl of mashed potatoes, don’t settle for the usual. Turn them into something extraordinary with this easy, satisfying recipe!
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you like, such as cheddar, gouda, or even feta cheese for a different flavor.
2. Can I prepare these nests in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes and filling ahead of time. Assemble the nests just before baking for the best results.
3. What side dishes go well with Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests?
Some great side dishes include a fresh mixed salad, steamed vegetables, or a simple soup.
Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Muffin tin or ramekins
- Potato masher or hand mixer
- Spatula
- Spoon
- Oven
- Saucepan
- Grater (for cheese)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 3 –5 large potatoes
- 3.5 tbsp 50 g butter
- A bunch of fresh dill chopped
- Salt smoked paprika, black pepper, oregano (to taste)
- 1.1 lbs 500 g ground beef
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 large tomato diced
- 2.5 oz 70 g tomato paste
- A bunch of fresh parsley chopped
- 3.5 oz 100 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Peel and boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash them with butter, salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, and oregano. Stir in the chopped fresh dill and set aside to cool slightly.
Cook the Filling:
- In a skillet, sauté the onion in a little oil until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper, cooking for 2–3 minutes. Then, stir in the ground beef and cook until it’s browned. Add the diced tomato, tomato paste, salt, and spices. Cook the mixture until it thickens. Stir in the chopped parsley and remove from heat.
Assemble the Nests:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Shape the mashed potatoes into small nests using your hands or a spoon, making sure to leave space in the center for the filling.
Stuff and Bake:
- Fill each nest with the beef mixture and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake them in the oven for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve:
- Let the nests cool slightly and serve them warm.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests make a great:- Side dish for roasted meats or grilled chicken
- Appetizer for parties or potlucks
- Brunch item alongside eggs and toast
- Snack for kids (they’ll love the mini size!)
