Description
These Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Loaded with BBQ Beef and Cheese are a crispy, savory treat perfect for parties or a comforting snack. Creamy mashed potato shells encase flavorful BBQ beef and melted cheddar cheese, fried to golden perfection for a crunchy exterior and gooey, satisfying filling.
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed Potato Cups
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (preferably made ahead and cooled)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
BBQ Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the BBQ beef filling: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef and cook until the onions are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine with BBQ sauce: Stir in the BBQ sauce and cook for another 2 minutes to allow the beef to absorb the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix in cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly combined. Set filling aside.
- Make the mashed potato mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, egg, and flour. Season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Form mashed potato cups: Roll the mashed potato mixture into 12-15 golf-ball-sized portions. Flatten each ball into a small patty, creating a well in the center for the filling.
- Fill the cups: Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the BBQ beef mixture into the well of each patty.
- Seal the cups: Carefully fold the edges of the mashed potato around the filling to enclose it completely, forming a cup shape.
- Coat with breadcrumbs: Roll each filled potato cup lightly in breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
- Heat oil for frying: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C), ensuring enough oil to fully submerge the cups.
- Fry the cups: Gently lower the mashed potato cups into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Drain excess oil: Remove cups with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve warm: Serve the deep-fried mashed potato cups immediately, with additional BBQ sauce for dipping if desired.
Notes
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for best results as they hold shape better when cooled.
- Ensure the BBQ beef filling is not too wet to prevent the cups from getting soggy.
- If you prefer, bake the cups at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of frying for a lighter version.
- Adjust seasoning of both mashed potatoes and beef filling to taste before assembling.
- Carefully handle the cups when frying to avoid breaking them apart.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (1 stuffed potato cup)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
