If you’ve never tasted Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups, prepare to fall in love with your new favorite way to turn everyday spuds into a flavor-packed, party-worthy side dish! These irresistible little potato muffins deliver everything you crave in mashed potatoes—creamy texture, tangy richness, and plenty of cheesy, garlicky goodness—all in a perfectly portioned, golden-topped cup. Whether you’re searching for a fun way to use up leftovers or just want a side that steals the show at your next gathering, this recipe combines comfort and creativity in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups so inviting is how the simplest ingredients come together to create something unexpectedly delightful. Each component plays its part, building layers of flavor and ensuring every cup is creamy in the middle with irresistibly crispy edges.
- Mashed potatoes (3 cups/675 g): The heart of the recipe—use freshly made or leftover mashed potatoes for ultimate creaminess and convenience.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup/50 g): Adds nutty, salty flavor and helps form those crisp, golden tops.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup/120 ml): Lends tangy richness and a silky smooth texture.
- Large eggs (2): Essential for binding the mixture so your cups hold their shape.
- Minced garlic (3 cloves): The star of the show—infuses every bite with savory, aromatic depth.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the cheesiness and brings out the best in your potatoes.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- Fresh chives (2 tablespoons, chopped): Bright and fresh, these give a pretty pop of color and delicate onion flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1/4 cup/28 g, optional): For a melty, golden finish—perfect for cheese lovers!
- Cooking spray: Nonstick insurance for easy cup removal and less clean up.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray, making sure to coat each indentation so your Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups slide out easily. This is all about setting yourself up for potato perfection down the road!
Step 2: Mix up the Magic
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, grated Parmesan, sour cream, eggs, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chopped chives. Stir until everything’s evenly mixed—no streaks of egg or clumps of cheese. This step is where all those beautiful flavors mingle, so don’t skimp on thorough mixing!
Step 3: Portion into Muffin Tin
Spoon the mashed potato mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. The mixture will puff slightly as it bakes, so resist the urge to overfill. If you’re using the optional cheddar cheese, sprinkle a little on top of each mound for added color and flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. The tops should turn golden brown and develop a light, crisp crust, while the insides stay cushiony and soft. Keep a close eye during the final minutes so you don’t miss that magical moment when the aroma of garlic and melted cheese fills your kitchen!
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the cups cool in the pan for about five minutes. This helps them set up, so they’re easier to lift out without falling apart. Gently run a butter knife around the edges if needed, then transfer to a serving platter and serve warm. Your Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups are ready to delight!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups
Garnishes
Amp up the visual appeal and freshness with a sprinkle of extra chopped chives or a little more Parmesan just before serving. For a festive touch, try a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or a dash of smoked paprika—these details make each cup look as good as it tastes!
Side Dishes
These cups are wildly versatile—pair them with everything from roast chicken and steak to grilled vegetables or even a classic tossed salad. Their golden, garlicky flavor complements hearty mains and lighter fare alike, making them a hit at holiday dinners and casual weeknight meals.
Creative Ways to Present
Set your Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups atop mini plates at a buffet or holiday spread for sophisticated single servings. Or serve them in a basket lined with a colorful napkin for a cozy, family-style feel. Pop them on a toothpick for an irresistible appetizer at your next party—no utensils required!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover cups completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They hold their shape and flavor beautifully, making them easy to reheat on busy nights.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag for up to two months. Label the bag with the date for best results—you’ll thank yourself when you have a last-minute side ready to go.
Reheating
To reheat, arrange the cups on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through. For an extra crisp top, pop them under the broiler for a minute or two, or reheat in an air fryer for amazing texture.
FAQs
Can I make Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cups are ideal for prepping in advance. Bake them as directed, let them cool, and then store in the refrigerator. Warm them back up in the oven or air fryer right before serving to keep the edges crispy.
What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Use whatever mashed potatoes you have handy—even leftovers from another meal work great. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are classic choices for their smooth, fluffy texture, but this recipe is forgiving with different varieties.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely! Substitute your favorite non-dairy sour cream and cheeses, and use mashed potatoes made with dairy-free milk and butter. The flavor will be a little different, but the cups still bake up deliciously creamy.
Do I need to peel the potatoes before making mashed potatoes for this recipe?
It’s up to you! Peeled potatoes yield a more classic, smooth mashed base, while leaving the skins on adds a rustic look and a bit more fiber. Both work beautifully in Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups.
Can I add other mix-ins, like bacon or veggies?
Absolutely—this recipe is very flexible! Crispy bacon bits, steamed broccoli, or even a handful of sautéed mushrooms make fun additions. Just stir them in with the rest of the ingredients before portioning into the tin.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard not to smile when you pull a tray of garlic-scented, golden-topped Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups out of the oven. These little bites turn simple potatoes into something truly special—share them with friends, wow your family, and enjoy every savory, cheesy mouthful. Dive in and make a batch; you’ll be hooked after the first bite!
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Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups are a delightful way to enjoy leftover mashed potatoes. Baked to perfection, these savory cups are packed with flavor and make for a convenient and tasty side dish.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Cups:
- 3 cups (675 g) mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1/4 cup (28 g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
- cooking spray for muffin tin
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, eggs, garlic, salt, pepper, and chives. Stir until well mixed.
- Fill the Muffin Cups: Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Sprinkle the tops with cheddar cheese if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until the tops are golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before carefully removing. Serve warm.
Notes
- These can be made ahead and reheated in the oven or air fryer.
- Perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes from the holidays.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
