Quick Description
Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and filled with savory goodness. Made from fluffy mashed potatoes shaped into little nests and baked until golden, they’re perfect as a high-protein breakfast, appetizer, or elegant side dish. Customizable with veggies, cheese, or lean protein!
Servings & Timing
Serves: 6–8 nests
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes
Ingredients List
Potato Base
- 4 medium Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled & cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup milk or cream (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg yolk
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional Filling Ideas (choose 1–2)
- ½ cup sautéed spinach & garlic
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or cooked ground turkey
- Roasted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms)
- 1–2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes or olives, chopped
Instructions
-
Cook Potatoes
Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (12–15 min). Drain well. -
Mash & Season
Mash potatoes with olive oil, milk/cream, Parmesan, egg yolk, salt, and pepper until smooth. -
Preheat Oven
Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. -
Shape Nests
Scoop mashed potatoes into mounds. Use a spoon to create wells in the center. -
Fill
Add your chosen filling into each nest. -
Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes until edges are golden and slightly crispy. -
Serve
Garnish with herbs or extra Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition (per nest – approximate)
Calories: 190
Protein: 8g
Carbs: 22g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Benefits
- Comfort food with protein potential
- Great for portion control
- Kid-friendly
- Freezer friendly
- Customizable fillings
- Perfect for meal prep
Additional Notes
- Pipe nests using a piping bag for a fancy look
- Brush edges with olive oil for extra crispiness
- Add shredded mozzarella for melty centers
- Crack a quail egg into the middle for brunch style
Dietary Info
Vegetarian: ✅
High-Protein Option: ✅ (add turkey or eggs)
Gluten-Free: ✅
Low-Carb Option: ❌ (can substitute cauliflower mash)
Brief Introduction
These potato nests turn simple mashed potatoes into something special—crispy cups filled with savory goodness. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, they always steal the show.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Boil potatoes → Mash with seasoning → Shape nests → Add filling → Bake → Serve hot
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Potatoes: Sweet potatoes or cauliflower mash
Milk: Almond or oat milk
Parmesan: Cheddar or mozzarella
Egg yolk: Optional but improves structure
Fillings: Anything from chicken to mushrooms
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Variations
- Breakfast nests (add egg & turkey bacon)
- Mediterranean (feta + olives + spinach)
- Tex-Mex (black beans + corn + cheese)
- Keto (use cauliflower mash)
Serve With
- Green salad
- Grilled chicken
- Soup
- Yogurt or sour cream drizzle
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate: 3–4 days
Freeze: Up to 2 months
Reheat: Oven or air fryer for crisp edges
FAQs
Can I make these ahead?
Yes—assemble and bake when ready.
Do they hold shape well?
Yes, thanks to the egg yolk and cheese.
Can I air fry them?
Absolutely—375°F for 12–15 minutes.
Can I use instant potatoes?
Fresh is best, but instant works in a pinch.
Optional Personal Story
I first made these when I wanted something fun but comforting using leftover mashed potatoes. Now they’re my go-to party appetizer—and they disappear fast.
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