Mashed Potato Muffins

Mashed Potato Muffins: A Delicious Use for Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into flavorful Mashed Potato Muffins with this easy and satisfying recipe. These muffins boast a crispy exterior and a soft, savory interior, making them a delightful addition to any meal, breakfast, or snack.

Introduction

Mashed Potato Muffins are an ingenious way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes, turning a simple side dish into a standout treat. With their golden, crispy tops and tender, fluffy centers, these muffins are packed with savory flavors. Whether you serve them alongside a meal or enjoy them as a snack, they are sure to become a family favorite. By incorporating cheese, herbs, and other flavorful ingredients, these muffins deliver a delicious combination that’s easy to bake and serve. Best of all, they’re highly adaptable, allowing you to tweak the recipe to suit your personal taste.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a muffin tin by greasing it or lining it with paper muffin cups.
2. Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, eggs, green onions or chives, bacon (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the ingredients until fully mixed.
3. Add the dry ingredients: Gently mix in the flour and baking powder until the mixture forms a thick but scoopable batter.
4. Fill the muffin tin: Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Flatten the tops slightly with a spoon.
5. Bake: Drizzle the melted butter over the tops of the muffins. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the muffins are cooked through.
6. Cool and serve: Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before removing them. Serve warm, and garnish with extra green onions or chives if desired.

Customization and Tips

These muffins can be personalized to fit your preferences. You can swap the cheddar for mozzarella, Gruyère, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. Vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini can also be added for extra nutrition. This flexibility makes them a versatile option for any occasion.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20-25 minutes
• Total time: 35-40 minutes

Yield

This recipe makes approximately 12 muffins.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute instant mashed potatoes. Prepare them according to the package instructions before adding them to the recipe.

Q2: Can I freeze these muffins?
Absolutely! Let the muffins cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the freezer. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q3: What other types of cheese can I use?
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Mozzarella, Gruyère, and pepper jack are all excellent choices for adding unique flavors to the muffins.

Q4: How long do these muffins stay fresh?
Stored in the refrigerator, these muffins will stay fresh for up to 5 days. For best results, reheat them in the oven or microwave before enjoying.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to the muffins?
Yes, you can enhance the muffins by adding vegetables like diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.