If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat that brings a fresh twist to a classic side, this Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine golden, cheesy muffins with a buttery crust and a fluffy, savory center, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a delightful snack. The magic of these muffins lies in using simple mashed potatoes transformed into a versatile, crowd-pleasing delight. Trust me, once you try this recipe, these muffins will become your new favorite way to enjoy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these scrumptious potato muffins is all about using everyday ingredients that deliver incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays an important role in making sure your muffins have the perfect balance of moistness, richness, and a little bit of crisp on top.
- 2 cups mashed potatoes: Whether leftover or freshly made, cooled mashed potatoes form the fluffy base of your muffins.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, melty flavor that brings the muffins alive.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Acts as the binding agent, holding everything together while giving just the right amount of rise.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional): Offers a subtle freshness and a pop of color for visual appeal.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the muffins for a tender crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Introduces a savory note that enhances the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a hint of warmth and depth.
- 1/4 cup milk: Keeps the batter smooth and moist, ensuring each bite is creamy.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing): Produces a golden, irresistible crust on top of the muffins.
How to Make Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grease your muffin tin well or line it with paper liners for easy cleanup. Getting this step right ensures your muffins won’t stick and will have a beautiful finish.
Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, and chopped green onions if you’re using them. This mixture is the heart of your muffins, blending creamy, cheesy richness with fresh bites.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Next, sprinkle in the flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s evenly combined. This step develops the batter, giving the muffins their perfect texture and well-rounded flavor.
Step 4: Incorporate Milk for Smoothness
Pour in the milk and continue mixing until your batter is smooth and slightly thick. This keeps the muffins moist and tender after baking, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Cups
Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. This allows room for the muffins to rise without overflowing, so you get perfectly shaped muffins every time.
Step 6: Optional Butter Brushing for Golden Tops
If you want to add a special touch, brush the tops with melted butter. This simple step creates a golden crust that adds a delicious contrast to the soft, cheesy interior.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Set
Pop your muffin tin into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the muffins are set and their tops turn lightly browned. This baking time ensures a fluffy texture inside and a delicate crust outside.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the muffins to cool slightly before removing them from the tin. Enjoy them warm for the best taste experience—they’re absolutely irresistible when served fresh out of the oven!
How to Serve Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your muffins, try garnishing with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives. A small dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese on top right out of the oven also adds wonderful richness and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
These mashed potato muffins shine alongside a variety of mains. Pair them with a crisp green salad for a light lunch, or serve as a comforting side with roasted chicken, beef stew, or grilled vegetables. They also make a fabulous snack on their own.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun appetizer, slice the muffins in half and spread with garlic butter or cream cheese, then top with smoked salmon or ham. They also make charming little “potato sliders” when topped with pulled pork or your favorite sandwich fillings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can easily enjoy your Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe again without having to bake another batch.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making them a perfect make-ahead option for busy days or unexpected guests.
Reheating
Reheat muffins in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through for the best texture. A quick zap in the microwave works too, though it might soften the crust slightly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of leftovers?
Absolutely! Freshly made mashed potatoes that have cooled work beautifully in this recipe and might even give you a fresher flavor.
Can I substitute cheddar cheese with another type?
Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack to suit your taste preferences. Just keep in mind how melty and flavorful the cheese is.
Are these muffins gluten-free?
Not as written, since they contain all-purpose flour. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables or mix-ins?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, cooked bacon, or sautéed mushrooms make flavorful additions. Just fold them in with the other ingredients before baking.
What is the best way to make these muffins crispier?
Brushing the tops with melted butter before baking and baking until golden helps create a crispier crust. You can also finish under the broiler for a minute or two, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to whip up this delightful Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe soon—it’s one of those recipes that brings comfort and cheer with every bite. Simple to make, full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable, these muffins are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the cozy warmth and the satisfying flavors while sharing them with those you love!
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Easy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Mashed Potato Muffins are a delicious and convenient way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into golden, cheesy muffins perfect for a snack or side dish. They combine creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory seasonings, baked to perfection for a tasty treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
Muffin Batter
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes (or freshly made, cooled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
Topping
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Tin: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners to ensure the muffins do not stick during baking.
- Combine Main Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, and chopped green onions until evenly combined to form the muffin base.
- Add Dry Seasonings and Flour: Stir in the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add Milk for Consistency: Pour in the milk and mix until the batter is smooth, with a slightly thick consistency suitable for scooping.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin tin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow space for rising.
- Optional Butter Brush: Brush the tops of the batter with melted butter to create a golden and flavorful crust after baking.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are set and the tops are lightly browned.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool slightly before removing them from the tin. Serve warm as a savory side dish or snack.
Notes
- Leftover mashed potatoes work great and save time, but freshly mashed and cooled potatoes can also be used.
- To make these muffins extra crispy, consider sprinkling a little extra cheese on top before baking.
- You can customize with your favorite mix-ins such as cooked bacon bits or herbs.
- Make sure the batter is not too runny; adjust flour quantity slightly if needed.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute cheese and milk with plant-based alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
