Mashed Potato Muffins

Turn your surplus spuds into the ultimate second-day snack with this quick and easy recipe for Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins. Leftovers lovers rejoice! Leftover Mashed Potato Pancakes have finally met their match with a fork-free alternative: Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins.

All you need is cheddar and chives to spin those spare spuds into something spectacular, as these muffins marry a crispy hash brown-inspired crust with a fluffy mashed potato middle. Best of all, you can stir in any other ingredient extras, be it shredded turkey from your Thanksgiving feast or diced ham from surplus sandwich fixings. Load ’em up or keep ’em easy and cheesy in this clean-out-the-fridge favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for reinventing leftovers into a delicious new dish. These muffins are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them an ideal snack or side dish. Plus, they’re highly customizable with whatever you have on hand, making them a great way to reduce food waste.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• Non-stick muffin pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Ice cream scoop or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, divided

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375ºF. Grease a non-stick muffin pan with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, stir together the mashed potatoes, egg, 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, and 2 tablespoons chopped chives. Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
3. Using an ice cream scoop, divide the potato mixture evenly into the prepared muffin pan, packing the potatoes down into each cup.
4. Bake the muffins for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and crisp around the edges. Remove the pan from the oven, top the muffins with the remaining 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, and return them to the oven for 3 more minutes.
5. Remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
6. Transfer the muffins to a serving dish, top them with the remaining 1 tablespoon of chopped chives, and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• When measuring leftover mashed potatoes, scoop and pack them into a measuring cup and then level it off.
• All mashed potatoes will vary in thickness. If your mashed potatoes are thinner in consistency, add an additional egg to the mixture to thicken it.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to add in extras like cooked bacon bits, chopped green onions, or even a sprinkle of paprika for a smoky twist. These muffins are versatile, so don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each muffin is packed with the goodness of potatoes and cheese, providing a satisfying blend of carbohydrates and protein. Enjoy them as part of a balanced meal or a hearty snack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze these muffins? Yes, after baking and cooling, you can freeze the muffins in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.

Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you prefer or have on hand. Gruyère or mozzarella would make excellent substitutes.

Conclusion

Give these Cheesy Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins a try and let them become a new favorite in your home. Not only will you be reducing food waste, but you’ll also be enjoying a tasty snack. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any variations you try!