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If you love comfort food that feels just a little bit special, you are going to adore this Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups Recipe. Imagine creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic and buttery Parmesan cheese, all baked into perfectly portioned little cups with crispy, golden tops. These delightful bites are not just a feast for the taste buds but also a charming addition to any meal or gathering. They’re easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to become a crowd favorite in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up these Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups is surprisingly simple, and the magic lies in the quality and combination of ingredients. Each one plays an essential role, bringing richness, garlic aroma, or that lovely golden crust that makes this recipe stand out.
- Russet potatoes: The perfect choice for fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes that hold their shape well in cups.
- Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic adds a warm, savory depth that makes these mashed potatoes sing.
- Whole milk: Adds creamy smoothness and moisture for the perfect mash texture.
- Unsalted butter: Enhances richness and helps sauté the garlic to golden perfection.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, nutty flavors and provides a crispy, cheesy crust when baked.
- Egg: Just enough to bind the mashed potatoes into sturdy cups without losing fluffiness.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to highlight all the flavors beautifully.
- Cooking spray or butter: For greasing the muffin tin to ensure easy release of the potato cups.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a burst of fresh, vibrant color and herbaceous brightness as a garnish.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cubing your russet potatoes into even pieces, so they cook uniformly. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt for seasoning. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat and let the potatoes simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when you can pierce them easily with a fork. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the hot pot to let any excess moisture evaporate. This step ensures your mashed potatoes won’t turn out watery.
Step 2: Infuse with Garlic & Butter
While the potatoes are cooking, melt butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and turns a lovely golden color. Be careful not to burn it since burnt garlic can turn bitter. This step is what transforms simple mashed potatoes into an aromatic, savory delight.
Step 3: Mash & Mix the Potatoes
Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to mash your potatoes until perfectly smooth and free of lumps. Pour in the garlic butter mixture, then add whole milk to reach a creamy consistency. Season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper to bring out all the flavors. This is your creamy mashed potato base that will soon become irresistibly cheesy and crispy in the oven.
Step 4: Assemble & Bake
Lightly beat the egg in a small bowl and fold it gently into the mashed potatoes. This ingredient might be subtle, but it works wonders binding the mixture without making it dense. Spray or butter your 12-cup muffin tin to prevent sticking, then spoon the potato mixture nearly to the top of each cup. Smooth each surface with the back of a spoon, and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for a golden, crunchy crust. Bake in your preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until the tops are irresistibly golden brown and crisp.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Once out of the oven, allow the cups to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin using a fork or small spatula. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Now, dig in and enjoy these cheesy little bites that are packed with comforting flavor and crispy charm!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice for these potato cups, adding a hint of herbal brightness. For a bit more fun, try a light drizzle of sour cream or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits. A dash of paprika or chopped chives can also elevate the presentation and taste with little effort.
Side Dishes
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups pair beautifully with hearty mains like roast chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. They also complement vegetarian dishes like sautéed mushrooms or a vibrant green salad. The creamy texture and crispy top serve as an excellent balance to fresh, savory, or smoky flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or holiday gathering, serve these cups on a beautiful platter with small forks alongside other finger foods. You can even hollow out the center slightly before baking to fill with a dollop of sour cream or melted cheese for an elevated twist. Using colorful muffin tins or liners can make these potato cups just as delightful visually as they are delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the potato cups are completely cooled before storing to maintain their texture and freshness.
Freezing
Want to enjoy these anytime? Freeze the fully baked and cooled potato cups on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 1 month. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your garlic Parmesan mashed potato cups in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until warmed through and crispy on top again. Microwaving is possible but may soften the crispy exterior.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
Russet potatoes work best due to their starchy, fluffy nature that creates creamy mashed potatoes. You could try Yukon Golds for a slightly buttery flavor, but avoid waxy potatoes as they can result in a gluey texture.
Is it necessary to use whole milk?
Whole milk contributes to a richer, creamier mash, but you can substitute with 2% milk or even cream if you want an extra indulgent texture. For a lighter version, unsweetened plant-based milks may work, but the flavor and texture will be different.
How do I make sure the garlic doesn’t burn?
Keep your heat medium to medium-low and watch closely during the sauté. Garlic cooks quickly; once you see it turning golden and fragrant, remove it immediately from the heat to avoid bitterness.
Can I prepare the mashed potato mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the mashed potatoes and garlic butter a day ahead, keeping them refrigerated. Just add the egg and assemble right before baking to ensure the best texture for your potato cups.
What can I do if I don’t have a muffin tin?
If you don’t have a muffin tin, try using small ramekins or an oven-safe mini cupcake tray. Just be mindful you might need to adjust the baking time slightly depending on the size and shape of your containers.
Final Thoughts
There’s something irresistibly comforting and fun about these Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups Recipe that makes them a guaranteed hit with family and friends. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy dinner, a festive occasion, or simply craving an elevated side dish, these cheesy, garlicky bites will warm your heart and delight your palate. I promise that once you try them, they’ll become one of your go-to recipes for any time you want to impress without fuss. So go ahead, give this recipe a try—you’re going to love every crispy, creamy bite!
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Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups are a delicious and elegant twist on classic mashed potatoes. Infused with sautéed garlic and buttery Parmesan cheese, then baked to golden perfection in muffin tins, they make a perfect side dish or appetizer. Crispy on the outside and creamy inside, topped with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Garlic & Butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
Additional Ingredients
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or butter, for greasing muffin tin
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or butter. Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain thoroughly and return the potatoes to the hot pot for a few minutes to evaporate any excess moisture.
- Infuse with Garlic & Butter: In a small pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn the garlic. Remove from heat.
- Mash & Mix the Potatoes: Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth and lump-free. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the melted garlic butter mixture, followed by the whole milk and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is well combined.
- Assemble & Bake: Lightly beat the egg in a small bowl and fold it into the mashed potato mixture until fully incorporated. Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin cups, filling each almost to the top. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over each cup for a crispy topping. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and slightly crispy on the top.
- Serve & Enjoy: Allow the potato cups to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin using a fork or spatula. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm as a delightful side dish or appetizer.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the garlic when sautéing to avoid a bitter taste.
- Russet potatoes are preferred for their fluffy texture, but Yukon Gold can be used as well.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- If you want extra crispiness, broil the tops for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- The potato cups can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
