🥔 Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests
👩🍳 Makes: 6–8 nests
(Depends on size — great for muffin tins or hand-shaped)
🧾 Ingredients
For the mashed potato base:
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2 cups mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made, smooth but firm)
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1 egg
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½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
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2 tbsp chopped chives or green onion (optional)
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Salt & pepper to taste
For the filling (choose your favorite or mix & match):
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Cooked bacon or ham bits
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Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers
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Cooked chicken or turkey
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Extra shredded cheese
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Soft scrambled egg (for breakfast-style nests)
🔪 Instructions
1. Preheat oven:
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Set oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Lightly grease a muffin tin or line a baking sheet with parchment if free-forming nests.
2. Prepare the potato mixture:
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In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes with the egg, cheese, chives, salt, and pepper until smooth and slightly stiff.
3. Form the nests:
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Scoop 2–3 tablespoons of the potato mixture into each muffin cup.
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Use a spoon (or your fingers) to press down and create a well in the center, forming a “nest” shape.
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Tip: Lightly oil your fingers or a spoon to prevent sticking.
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4. Bake the nests:
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Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and slightly crispy.
5. Add the filling:
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Remove the tray and gently spoon your chosen fillings into each nest.
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Top with a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
6. Bake again:
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Return to the oven for another 8–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the filling is heated through.
🍴 Serving Ideas
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Serve warm as a snack, brunch side, or with a salad for a light meal.
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Great for kids’ lunches or party platters — just mini-size them!