Mashed Potato Muffins are the ultimate way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a crispy, cheesy, and savory delight. With a golden-brown exterior and a soft, fluffy inside, these muffins are packed with rich flavors from cheddar, Parmesan, and a blend of herbs and spices. Perfect as a side dish, snack, or even breakfast, they are easy to make and highly customizable. Whether you want to keep them simple or add extras like bacon or veggies, these muffins will become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
✔️ Uses Leftover Mashed Potatoes – A creative and delicious way to repurpose leftovers.
✔️ Crispy on the Outside, Soft Inside – A perfect contrast in textures.
✔️ Packed with Flavor – Cheese, herbs, and seasonings make these muffins irresistible.
✔️ Customizable – Add bacon, ham, or veggies for extra variety.
✔️ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick prep time make this a hassle-free recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in making the muffins flavorful, fluffy, and perfectly textured.
- 2 cups mashed potatoes – Leftover or freshly made, they create the base of the muffins.
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese – Adds creaminess and a rich cheesy flavor.
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese – Enhances the savory depth of the muffins.
- 1/4 cup sour cream – Provides moisture and a slight tanginess.
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten – Helps bind the ingredients and create structure.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (optional) – A smoky, crispy addition for extra flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Brings a warm, aromatic taste.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic and enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Gives the muffins a firmer structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps them rise slightly and maintain a light texture.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter – Adds richness and helps achieve a golden, crispy top.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make the best Mashed Potato Muffins.
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or use paper liners.
2. Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, eggs, green onions (or chives), bacon (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until all ingredients are well blended.
3. Add Flour and Baking Powder
- Gently mix in the flour and baking powder.
- Stir until just combined; the mixture should be thick but scoopable.
4. Fill the Muffin Tin
- Spoon the mashed potato mixture into each muffin cup, filling about ¾ full.
- Flatten the tops slightly with a spoon for an even shape.
5. Add Butter and Bake
- Drizzle melted butter over the tops of the muffins for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and firm.
6. Cool and Serve
- Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra green onions or chives if desired.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mashed Potato Muffins
⭐ Use well-seasoned mashed potatoes – If your mashed potatoes are already seasoned, adjust the salt accordingly.
⭐ Don’t overmix – Stir the ingredients until just combined to keep the muffins light and fluffy.
⭐ For extra crispiness – Bake for an extra 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C) at the end.
⭐ Customize to your taste – Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Gruyère, or pepper jack for a new flavor twist.
⭐ Add veggies – Try chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
Mashed Potato Muffins are versatile and pair well with many dishes. Here are some ways to enjoy them:
🥓 As a breakfast side – Serve with eggs and bacon for a hearty meal.
🥩 With dinner – A great side for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish.
🥣 With soup or salad – A warm, cheesy muffin is perfect alongside a comforting bowl of soup or a fresh salad.
🧄 With dips – Try them with garlic aioli, sour cream, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a flavorful kick.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes! Just prepare them according to the package directions before using them in the recipe.
Q2: Can I freeze these muffins?
Absolutely. Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q3: Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! Try mozzarella, Gruyère, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Q4: How long do these muffins stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, they stay fresh for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before eating.
Q5: Can I add vegetables?
Of course! Chopped bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions.
Final Thoughts
Mashed Potato Muffins are a fun, creative, and delicious way to enjoy mashed potatoes in a new form. Their crispy, golden tops and gooey, cheesy centers make them a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you're looking to repurpose leftovers or make a batch from scratch, these muffins are a fantastic addition to your meal plan.
Try them today, and they might just become your new favorite potato dish!