Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests

These Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests are a creative and delicious twist on traditional mashed potatoes. Crispy potato nests are filled with a savory ground beef mixture, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, and garnished with fresh herbs for a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is flavorful. Perfect for brunch, dinner, or entertaining guests, this recipe is simple yet impressive!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Crispy & Creamy: Golden potato nests with creamy interiors are stuffed with a rich, savory filling.
• Customizable: Add your favorite spices, vegetables, or cheeses to make it your own.
• Kid-Friendly: Fun presentation makes it appealing to all ages.

 Ingredients:

For the Potato Nests:

• 3–5 large potatoes (enough to yield about 4 cups of mashed potatoes ) 🥔
• 3.5 tbsp (50g) butter , melted
• A little salt , smoked paprika , black pepper , and oregano , to taste
• Fresh dill , chopped (for garnish )

For the Filling:

• 1.1 lbs (500g) ground beef 🍖
• 1 onion , finely chopped 🧅
• 2 garlic cloves , minced 🧄
• 1 red bell pepper , diced 🌶️
• 1 large tomato , diced 🍅
• 2.5 oz (70g) tomato paste
• A bunch of fresh parsley , chopped (for garnish )
• Salt and black pepper , to taste

For Topping:

• 3.5 oz (100g) mozzarella cheese , shredded 🧀

 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes 🥔

1. Peel and boil the potatoes in salted water until tender (about 20–25 minutes ). Drain and mash them thoroughly.
2. Mix in 2.5 tbsp (35g) melted butter , salt , smoked paprika , black pepper , and oregano to season the mashed potatoes.

Step 2: Shape the Potato Nests 🥄

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Grease a muffin tin or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Divide the mashed potatoes into 6–8 portions (depending on desired size). Press each portion into the wells of the muffin tin to form a “nest” shape, leaving a hollow center for the filling. Brush the tops lightly with the remaining 1 tbsp (15g) melted butter for extra crispiness.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling 🍳

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Stir in the chopped onion , minced garlic , and diced red bell pepper . Cook for 3–4 minutes , or until the vegetables soften.
3. Add the diced tomato , tomato paste , salt , and black pepper . Cook for another 5 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley .

Step 4: Assemble the Nests 🧀

1. Spoon the beef mixture into the hollow centers of the potato nests, pressing down gently to pack it in.
2. Top each nest generously with shredded mozzarella cheese .

Step 5: Bake the Nests 🔥

1. Place the assembled nests in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes , or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
   • Tip: If you want extra crispiness on the potato nests, broil them for the last 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve 🍴

1. Remove the nests from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Garnish with fresh dill and additional chopped parsley before serving.

Tips for Success:

• Add Veggies: Stir spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms into the beef filling for extra nutrition.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the nests ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 1 day before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
• Freeze Option: Freeze unbaked nests on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6):

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: ~18g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fat: ~15g

Enjoy these Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests as a fun, hearty, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Their crispy exteriors, creamy mashed potatoes, and savory beef filling make them a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or special gatherings. Pair them with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!