When it comes to comfort food, mashed potatoes hold a special place in your heart. Their creamy texture and rich flavor evoke memories of cozy dinners and joyous celebrations. But what if you could take that beloved classic and give it a modern, crowd-pleasing twist? Enter Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups, a delightful bite-sized version of the dish you know and love.

Perfect for family meals, parties, or even as an on-the-go snack, these potato cups deliver all the flavor and satisfaction of traditional mashed potatoes, wrapped in a crispy, golden crust. Let’s dive into how you can make this irresistible dish at home.

What Are Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups?

Think of these potato cups as a reimagined version of mashed potatoes. Instead of serving a heap of mashed goodness on a plate, you shape and bake them into individual portions.

Each cup features a creamy interior infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese, surrounded by a slightly crisp, golden exterior. Not only are they delicious, but their presentation is also elegant and practical, making them perfect for gatherings or festive occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about a dish that’s easy to make yet feels special enough for a celebration. Here’s why these mashed potato cups will quickly become a favorite:

• Great for Any Occasion: From holiday dinners to casual family meals, these cups fit right in.
• Perfectly Portioned: No need for messy scooping—each cup is the ideal serving size.
• Simple Yet Sophisticated: The familiar flavors of garlic and Parmesan are elevated with a crispy baked finish.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups

Before you get started, gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredient	Quantity	Description
Russet potatoes	3 large	Perfect for creamy mashed potatoes.
Garlic	4 cloves	Minced for a robust, savory flavor.
Unsalted butter	¼ cup	Adds richness and a velvety texture.
Whole milk	½ cup (warm)	Helps achieve a smooth, fluffy consistency.
Parmesan cheese	1 cup (grated)	Brings a salty, nutty flavor.
Large egg	1 (lightly beaten)	Helps bind the mixture.
Salt and pepper	To taste	Essential for seasoning the potatoes.
Cooking spray/butter	For greasing	Ensures the cups don’t stick to the pan.
Fresh parsley	Chopped, for garnish	Adds color and freshness to the final dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Mashed Potatoes

• Boil the Potatoes: Peel and cube the russet potatoes, then place them in a large pot of salted water. Boil until they’re fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.
• Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and mash them in a large bowl until smooth.
• Incorporate Ingredients: Stir in the minced garlic, butter, warm milk, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until creamy and fully combined.

2. Mixing and Shaping

• Add Egg and Seasoning: Once the potato mixture has cooled slightly, fold in the beaten egg, salt, and pepper. This step helps the cups hold their shape.
• Grease the Muffin Tin: Use cooking spray or butter to grease a standard muffin tin.
• Fill the Cups: Scoop the mashed potato mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.

3. Baking the Potato Cups

• Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the cups for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and slightly crispy.
• Cool and Serve: Let the cups cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the tin. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups

To ensure your potato cups turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Russet Potatoes: Their starchy nature makes for the fluffiest mashed potatoes.
• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the potatoes can make them gummy. Mash just until smooth.
• Grease Generously: This helps the cups release easily and maintain their shape.
• Achieve a Crispy Top: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a golden crust.

Serving Suggestions

These mashed potato cups are versatile and can complement a variety of dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

• As a Side Dish: Pair them with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon for a hearty meal.
• As an Appetizer: Serve them at parties with a dollop of sour cream or an herbed aioli.
• As a Snack: Enjoy them warm with a side of marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.

Storing and Reheating Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups

Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigerating: Place the cooled cups in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cups on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or microwave for a quick option.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to experiment with the recipe to suit your taste preferences:

Flavor Variations

• Swap Parmesan cheese for sharp cheddar or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
• Add crumbled bacon or caramelized onions for extra indulgence.

Dietary Modifications

• For a dairy-free option, use almond milk and vegan cheese.
• Replace the egg with a flaxseed mixture to make the dish vegan-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mashed potato mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Fill the muffin tin just before baking.

2. What’s the best way to reheat mashed potato cups?

The oven is your best bet to maintain their crispy texture. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

3. Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative, offering a buttery flavor and smooth texture.

4. How do I keep the cups from sticking to the pan?

Grease the muffin tin thoroughly, or use silicone muffin liners for easy removal.

5. Can I add other ingredients to the mixture?

Absolutely! Chopped chives, shredded cheese, or even diced jalapeños make fantastic additions.

6. Are mashed potato cups kid-friendly?

Yes, they’re a hit with kids thanks to their fun size and familiar flavors.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups are more than just a side dish—they’re a celebration of comfort food with a creative twist. Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with flavor, these cups are sure to impress your family and friends.

Whether you’re serving them at a holiday dinner or simply elevating a weeknight meal, they’re a versatile, crowd-pleasing addition to your table. So, why not give this recipe a try? Get creative, experiment with variations, and make it uniquely yours. Your taste buds will thank you!

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