Oh, my goodness, have I got a treat for you! Garlic parmesan mashed potato cups are not just any side dish; they’re a delightful twist on a classic that you can hold in your hand! Seriously, these little cups are bursting with flavor and are so easy to whip up. Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party or just need a comforting side for a cozy weeknight meal, they’re sure to impress. Trust me, once you take a bite of these creamy mashed potatoes mixed with aromatic garlic and rich parmesan, you’ll be hooked! Plus, they’re baked to perfection, giving you that golden crust on top that’s absolutely irresistible. Let’s dive into how to make these scrumptious garlic parmesan mashed potato cups!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups mashed potatoes: You can use homemade or store-bought; just make sure they’re nice and creamy!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor that’s hard to beat. Don’t skip this step!
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: The cheesy goodness is what makes these cups so rich and delicious. Go for freshly grated if you can!
- 1/4 cup milk: This helps keep the mashed potatoes smooth and creamy. Whole milk works best, but use what you have!
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: Who doesn’t love butter? It adds a lovely richness to the mixture—yum!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key here, so adjust according to your preference for that perfect flavor.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens up the dish but adds a pop of color!
How to Prepare Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups
Preheat the Oven
First thing’s first—let’s get that oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it helps those lovely mashed potato cups bake evenly and get that gorgeous golden crust on top. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Combine Ingredients
Now, grab a big mixing bowl and let’s bring all those tasty ingredients together! Start by adding your creamy mashed potatoes, minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, milk, and melted butter. I like to use a sturdy spatula or a wooden spoon to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. You’ll want to make sure the garlic and cheese are evenly distributed throughout, so give it a good stir!
Season the Mixture
Next up, it’s time to season! Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can really make it your own, so don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning according to your preference. A little taste test here is always a good idea—just a small spoonful to check if it’s to your liking!
Fill the Muffin Tin
Now, let’s get those mashed potato cups into the oven! Start by greasing a muffin tin with some butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, spoon the mashed potato mixture into each cup, filling them about three-quarters full. This will give them room to rise a bit while baking. Don’t worry about being perfect; a little rustic charm is always welcome!
Bake the Cups
Pop the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the tops are beautifully golden brown and a little crispy. If you want to double-check, just insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, they’re done!
Cool and Garnish
Once they’re out of the oven, let the cups cool for just a few minutes in the tin. This will make it easier to remove them without falling apart. After they’ve cooled slightly, gently wiggle them out of the tin, and don’t forget to garnish with some freshly chopped parsley. It adds a lovely touch of color and freshness to your delicious garlic parmesan mashed potato cups!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the numbers! Each serving of these delightful garlic parmesan mashed potato cups packs in a satisfying balance of flavor and nutrition. Here’s what you can expect per cup:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 4g
These little cups are not only delicious but also provide a good dose of comfort food without going overboard on calories. Perfect for a side dish that won’t ruin your meal plans! Enjoy knowing that you’re indulging in something tasty yet balanced!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure you nail these garlic parmesan mashed potato cups! Here are my top tips for achieving the *best* results every time:
- Use Quality Potatoes: If you’re making mashed potatoes from scratch, I recommend going with Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. They’re starchy and creamy, making for the fluffiest mashed potatoes!
- Get Creative with Cheese: While parmesan is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to mix it up! Try adding cheddar for a sharper flavor or even a bit of feta for a tangy twist. Experimenting is half the fun!
- Spice It Up: Want to add a little kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you’re mixing the ingredients. It’ll elevate the flavor profile and surprise your taste buds!
- Texture Matters: If you like a creamier texture, feel free to add a bit more milk or even some cream cheese into the mix. Just remember to balance it so they don’t get too runny!
- Leftover Magic: These cups are a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. If you’ve got some hanging around, just skip the first steps and mix in the garlic and cheese with what you already have!
- Make It Ahead: If you’re prepping for a special occasion, you can assemble the cups ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from cold.
- Check for Doneness: When baking, keep an eye on them in the last few minutes. Ovens can vary, and you want that perfect golden brown top without overcooking!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the most scrumptious garlic parmesan mashed potato cups that will impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!
Variations
Now, let’s have some fun with these garlic parmesan mashed potato cups! The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some stellar variations to switch things up and keep your taste buds dancing:
- Cheesy Broccoli: Add a handful of finely chopped steamed broccoli into the mixture for a pop of color and extra nutrients. It’s like a veggie-packed surprise in every bite!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate your cups to a whole new level. Try mixing in some chopped chives, thyme, or rosemary for a fragrant twist that complements the garlic beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. This will add a delicious heat that pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes!
- Different Cheeses: While parmesan is fantastic, don’t be afraid to play around! A blend of mozzarella and cheddar will give you a gooey and cheesy delight, or a bit of blue cheese for a bold flavor. Yum!
- Loaded Baked Potato Style: Top each cup with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream after baking for a full-on loaded potato experience that’s sure to please!
- Sweet Potato Cups: For a twist on the classic, use sweet potatoes instead of regular ones. They’ll bring a lovely sweetness that pairs well with garlic and parmesan!
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy flavor that adds a Mediterranean flair. This is a great way to switch things up and impress your guests!
Feel free to get creative and make these garlic parmesan mashed potato cups your own! Each variation brings a new flavor profile, so you’ll never get bored. Enjoy experimenting in the kitchen!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a batch of these delightful garlic parmesan mashed potato cups, and now you’re wondering how to keep them for later? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Storing these little gems is super simple and will help maintain their delicious flavor and texture.
To store leftovers, let the cups cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re sealed well to prevent them from drying out!
When it’s time to enjoy them again, reheating is key to bringing back that wonderful creaminess. I recommend placing them on a baking sheet and popping them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This way, they’ll warm up evenly and the tops will regain a bit of that lovely crispiness. If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave them, but be cautious not to overdo it! Just heat them in short bursts of about 30 seconds until they’re warmed through, and remember to give them a little stir in between to avoid uneven heating.
And there you have it! With the right storage and reheating methods, you can enjoy these garlic parmesan mashed potato cups multiple times without losing their delicious charm. Happy snacking!
FAQ Section
Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can! If you’re in a pinch, instant mashed potatoes will work just fine. Just follow the package instructions and then mix in the garlic, parmesan, and other ingredients as directed.
What can I serve with garlic parmesan mashed potato cups?
These little cups are super versatile! They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a fresh salad. They’re a great side dish for any meal where you want to add a comforting touch!
How can I make these cups gluten-free?
To keep these delicious garlic parmesan mashed potato cups gluten-free, just ensure that any pre-packaged ingredients like parmesan cheese or cooking spray are labeled gluten-free. You’re all set to enjoy!
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the cups and store them in the fridge before baking. Just be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add an extra few minutes to the cooking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
What if I don’t have parmesan cheese?
No problem! You can substitute with any cheese you have on hand. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a combination of cheeses can work wonderfully. Each will give a different flavor, but they’ll still be delicious!
Can I freeze these mashed potato cups?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier.
How do I ensure they come out of the muffin tin easily?
Greasing the muffin tin well is key! You can use butter or cooking spray. If you’re still having trouble, run a butter knife gently around the edges to loosen them before lifting them out.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover cups?
For the best texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore the crispy tops. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave will work too—just be careful not to overheat them!
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups: 7 Reasons to Love Them
- Temps Total: 40 minutes
- Rendement: 12 cups 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Garlic parmesan mashed potato cups are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy mashed potatoes.
Ingrédients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes, garlic, parmesan, milk, and melted butter.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Spoon the mixture into a greased muffin tin.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden on top.
- Let cool slightly before removing from the tin.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for a quicker option.
- Adjust garlic according to your taste.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 25 minutes
- Catégorie: Side Dish
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sucre: 1g
- De Sodium: 300mg
- La graisse: 8g
- Graisses Saturées: 4g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 2g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 18g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 4g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 20mg
Mots-clés: garlic parmesan mashed potato cups
