Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these garlic parmesan mashed potato cups! They’re like a cozy hug in every bite, bringing all the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes with a deliciously cheesy twist. Imagine crispy edges and a soft, fluffy center, all packed into a perfectly portioned cup. Trust me, they’re a total game changer for your dinner table!
These little gems are incredibly versatile, too! Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, looking for a unique side dish, or just wanting to jazz up your weeknight meals, they fit the bill. Plus, they’re super easy to make, which makes them a win-win in my book! You can whip them up ahead of time, and they can even steal the spotlight at any potluck. Seriously, everyone will be asking for your secret recipe!
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups mashed potatoes, prepared and cooled
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How to Prepare Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your garlic parmesan mashed potato cups get that lovely golden color and crispy edges we all crave!
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your prepared mashed potatoes, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, milk, melted butter, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Now, here’s the fun part: mix it all together until it’s nice and smooth! You want everything to be well combined, so don’t rush it. The aroma of garlic mingling with cheesy goodness is going to make your kitchen smell divine!
Prepare Muffin Tin
Next, grab your muffin tin and give it a good greasing with some non-stick spray or a bit of butter. This is important so that your mashed potato cups pop out easily after baking. Nobody likes a stuck potato cup, trust me!
Fill Muffin Cups
Now it’s time to spoon that creamy mashed potato mixture into each muffin cup. Fill them about three-quarters full—this way, they have room to puff up a bit while baking. You can use a regular spoon or an ice cream scoop for a neat and tidy fill. Just imagine those delicious little cups waiting to be baked!
Bake the Cups
Place your filled muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are golden brown and the edges are crispy. It’s hard to resist peeking in, but try to wait just a little bit longer!
Let Cool and Garnish
Once they’re out of the oven, let your garlic parmesan mashed potato cups cool for a few minutes before trying to remove them from the tin. This helps them firm up a little more. Then, carefully lift them out and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color. They’re ready to be served and devoured!
Tips for Success
Okay, friends, if you want to nail these garlic parmesan mashed potato cups, I’ve got some pro tips to share! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will help you avoid any kitchen mishaps and elevate your dish to absolute perfection.
- Use creamy mashed potatoes: If you can, make your mashed potatoes extra creamy by adding a bit more butter or cream. This will give your cups a delightful texture that melts in your mouth.
- Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing your potato cups to cool slightly before removing them from the muffin tin helps them hold their shape better. Patience pays off!
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to mix in herbs like thyme or chives for an extra burst of flavor. You can also swap out the parmesan for another cheese—you could try sharp cheddar or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick!
- Watch the baking time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your potato cups as they bake. If they’re getting too brown too quickly, you can cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning.
- Portion control is key: Make sure to fill each muffin cup evenly to ensure they bake at the same rate. A little scoop or an ice cream scoop can really help with this!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating the most delicious garlic parmesan mashed potato cups that everyone will rave about! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! Here’s a quick look at the typical nutritional values for one serving of these scrumptious garlic parmesan mashed potato cups. This information can help you feel good about your delicious creation!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 4g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose to use. But either way, you’re in for a tasty treat that won’t break the calorie bank! Enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!
FAQ About Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potato mixture a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the greased muffin tin and pop them in the oven! If you want to cook them ahead of time, you can also bake them and then store the cooked cups in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat them before serving!
What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?
If parmesan isn’t your thing or you just want to mix it up, no worries! You can use other cheeses like sharp cheddar for a tangy twist, or even asiago for something a bit different. You could also try feta for a saltier flavor or a blend of Italian cheeses for an extra cheesy experience. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might change a bit depending on what you choose!
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheating these little gems is super easy! Just pop them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave! Just place a cup in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel (to keep it moist), and heat for about 30-60 seconds. Keep an eye on them so they don’t dry out! Enjoy that cheesy goodness all over again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: These garlic parmesan mashed potato cups come together in a flash, making them a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Deliciously satisfying: The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, savory garlic, and rich parmesan creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
- Perfect for sharing: With their cute cup shape, they’re easy to serve at parties, potlucks, or family dinners—everyone will love them!
- Versatile: Feel free to customize these cups with your favorite herbs or cheeses to make them your own. They’re a blank canvas just waiting for your creative touch!
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep them ahead of time, and just bake when you’re ready to enjoy. It’s a stress-free solution for entertaining!
- A crowd-pleaser: Trust me, these little cups are bound to win over even the pickiest eaters. They’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up these delightful garlic parmesan mashed potato cups, let’s talk about how to elevate your meal experience even further! These little beauties pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes, making them a fantastic addition to any table. Here are some ideas to complement your delicious creations:
- Grilled Chicken: Serve these cups alongside juicy grilled chicken breast marinated in herbs and lemon. The flavors go hand-in-hand, and the chicken’s juiciness balances the creamy richness of the potato cups.
- Roasted Vegetables: A colorful platter of roasted seasonal vegetables adds a lovely crunch and freshness. Think carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini drizzled with olive oil and herbs!
- Steak: For a heartier meal, pair your garlic parmesan mashed potato cups with a perfectly cooked steak. The savory notes from the steak beautifully enhance the creamy potato cups.
- Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the potatoes. It’s refreshing and adds a nice contrast!
- Herbed Gravy: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought herbed gravy over the cups for an extra layer of flavor. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds!
- Seafood: Pair them with grilled shrimp or pan-seared salmon for a lighter yet satisfying option. The garlic and parmesan flavors will harmonize beautifully with the seafood.
With these serving suggestions, your garlic parmesan mashed potato cups will shine at any meal! Get ready for an unforgettable dining experience, and don’t forget to enjoy every bite!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups: 5 Blissful Bites
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic parmesan mashed potato cups are a delicious and unique way to enjoy mashed potatoes. They are perfect for parties or as a side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, parmesan cheese, garlic, milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Grease a muffin tin.
- Spoon the mashed potato mixture into each muffin cup.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and set.
- Let cool slightly before removing from the tin.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can make the mashed potatoes ahead of time.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: garlic parmesan mashed potato cups
