Mashed Potato Muffins

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Mashed Potato Muffins: The Perfect Use for Leftover Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a creative and delicious way to transform leftover mashed potatoes into a delightful new dish, look no further than Mashed Potato Muffins! These savory muffins are fluffy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect snack, side dish, or even breakfast treat. Whether you have mashed potatoes from a recent meal or want to make a batch specifically for this recipe, these muffins will quickly become a family favorite.

Why Make Mashed Potato Muffins?

Sometimes, after a big dinner, you may find yourself with a surplus of mashed potatoes. Instead of simply reheating them, why not turn them into something unique and tasty? Mashed potato muffins are the perfect way to reinvent leftovers and add a new twist to a classic comfort food.

These muffins are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them on their own, pair them with soup or salad, or serve them alongside a main course. The combination of shredded cheddar cheese and fresh chives adds a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy mashed potatoes, creating a muffin that’s both soft and savory with a touch of richness.

Ingredients for Mashed Potato Muffins

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes: Using leftover mashed potatoes is the key to this recipe. The creaminess and texture of the mashed potatoes will ensure the muffins turn out soft and moist. If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, you can make some fresh potatoes to use for this recipe.

  • 1 large egg: The egg helps bind the ingredients together and adds richness to the muffins.

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Cheddar cheese brings a rich, savory flavor that perfectly complements the potatoes. Using half of the cheese for mixing and reserving the other half for topping creates a cheesy muffin inside and out.

  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, divided: Chives add a subtle onion flavor and a burst of color to the muffins. You’ll mix some into the batter and sprinkle the rest on top for an extra pop of freshness.

How to Make Mashed Potato Muffins

Making mashed potato muffins is quick and easy. With just a few simple steps, you can have a batch of fluffy, cheesy muffins ready in no time. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease or line a 12-cup muffin tin with muffin liners to ensure the muffins don’t stick.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes and egg. Stir them together until smooth and well incorporated. The mashed potatoes should be soft and not too stiff. If they’re a bit thick, feel free to add a splash of milk to loosen them up.

Next, add half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the chopped chives to the mixture. Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The cheese will add flavor, while the chives will provide a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens the muffins.

Step 3: Spoon the Mixture into Muffin Tin

Spoon the mashed potato mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin. Fill each muffin cup about 3/4 full to allow room for the muffins to rise as they bake. Make sure the batter is spread evenly in each cup.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Top each muffin with a sprinkle of the remaining cheddar cheese and a few extra chives. This will create a cheesy, golden crust on top that adds both flavor and texture to the muffins.

Step 5: Bake the Muffins

Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake the muffins for about 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can test if the muffins are done by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, they’re ready to be taken out of the oven.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the mashed potato muffins to cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before removing them. This will make it easier to take them out without them falling apart. Once they’ve cooled slightly, remove them from the tin and serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Mashed Potato Muffins

  • Consistency is Key: The consistency of your mashed potatoes will impact the texture of the muffins. If the potatoes are too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen them up. If they’re too runny, add a bit more flour or breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture.

  • Make Them Extra Cheesy: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more shredded cheddar cheese to the batter or sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or parmesan, for a unique flavor.

  • Add Some Extra Flavor: Spice up the muffins by adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even crushed red pepper flakes to the batter. This will give your muffins a little extra kick.

  • Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes: The beauty of this recipe is that it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Make sure the potatoes are well-seasoned so that the muffins are flavorful.

  • Storage and Reheating: If you have any muffins leftover, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm them in the oven for 5-10 minutes at 350°F.

Serving Ideas

These mashed potato muffins make a great side dish for any meal. They’re perfect alongside roast chicken, steak, or even soup. You can also enjoy them on their own for a light snack. They’re great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and are easy to pack for work or school.

Additionally, these muffins are a hit at potlucks, family gatherings, or parties. They’re simple to make and sure to please a crowd with their cheesy, comforting flavor.

Conclusion

Mashed potato muffins are a clever and tasty way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes into a brand-new dish. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a deliciously cheesy and fluffy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on their own, these muffins are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t let your mashed potatoes go to waste—try this recipe today!

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