Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups Recipe

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups Recipe

Whipping up some delightful garlic parmesan mashed potato cups brings pure comfort to any meal.

Crispy edges and creamy centers make these little bites irresistible.

Potato lovers will go crazy for this clever twist on a classic side dish.

Every bite offers a perfect balance of rich, savory flavors that dance across your palate.

Small cups packed with cheesy goodness create an instant crowd-pleaser for gatherings or quiet dinners.

Serving these golden-brown delights guarantees smiles and empty plates in no time.

You cannot resist the temptation of these miniature potato treasures that elevate ordinary mashed potatoes into something magical.

What’s in Parmesan Potato Cups

Core Ingredients:
  • Potatoes: Starchy and perfect for creating creamy mashed potato cups.
  • Milk: Creamy liquid that helps make smooth mashed potatoes.
  • Butter: Rich dairy product that adds smoothness and flavor.
  • Egg: Helps bind the potato mixture and create structure.
Cheese and Seasoning:
  • Parmesan Cheese: Salty and tangy cheese that provides delicious depth.
  • Garlic: Aromatic herb that adds robust flavor to the potatoes.
  • Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance overall taste.
Finishing Touches:
  • Cooking Spray or Butter: Helps prevent sticking in the muffin tin.
  • Fresh Parsley: Green herb for garnish and fresh appearance.

Making Parmesan Potato Cups Easily

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Heat the oven to 375°F.

Grab a 12-cup muffin tin and coat every nook and cranny with cooking spray or butter so your potato cups slide out effortlessly.

Step 2: Cook Potato Goodness

Toss potato cubes into a large pot and cover with cold water.

Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.

Let potatoes bubble away for 15-20 minutes until they’re soft enough to pierce easily with a fork.

Drain completely and return potatoes to the pot.

Step 3: Create Creamy Potato Base

Add the following ingredients to your cooked potatoes:
  • Minced garlic
  • Whole milk
  • Unsalted butter

Mash everything together until super smooth.

No lumpy potatoes allowed!

Step 4: Enhance Flavor Profile

Fold in these ingredients:
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Let the mixture cool slightly, then gently beat in the egg to prevent scrambling.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups

Carefully spoon the potato mixture into each muffin cup.

Press down gently and smooth the tops for a professional look.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the muffin tin into the preheated oven.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the tops turn a beautiful golden brown and edges get delightfully crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Allow potato cups to rest in the tin for a few minutes.

Carefully remove and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.

Serve immediately while warm and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Parmesan Potato Cups Cooking Tips

  • Mash potatoes thoroughly and use a potato ricer or masher to achieve a smooth, creamy texture without any chunks.
  • Cool potato mixture slightly before adding the egg to prevent it from cooking instantly and creating unwanted scrambled egg bits.
  • Use plenty of cooking spray or butter in the muffin tin to ensure easy removal of potato cups without sticking.
  • Smooth the tops of the potato mixture and bake until edges turn golden brown for a delightful crispy exterior.
  • Experiment with additional herbs like chives or rosemary, or swap Parmesan for other cheeses to create unique variations of this dish.

Reheat Parmesan Potato Cups Properly

  • Store leftover potato cups in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Seal them tightly to maintain moisture and prevent absorption of other refrigerator odors.
  • Wrap individual potato cups in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen potato cups can last up to 2 months for best quality.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Place potato cups on a baking sheet and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent excessive drying.
  • Warm potato cups on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to ensure even heating. Add a small splash of milk to restore moisture if needed.

Pairing Ideas for Potato Cups

  • Pair Perfectly with Savory Roast Chicken: Tender, herb-crusted roast chicken complements the creamy garlic Parmesan potato cups, creating a harmonious main course with rich, comforting flavors that blend beautifully.
  • Enhance with Crisp Chardonnay: A lightly oaked Chardonnay cuts through the potato's richness, providing a refreshing contrast with its bright acidity and subtle buttery notes that match the dish's creamy texture.
  • Complement with Herb-Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts add a vibrant green element and earthy undertones that balance the potato cups' indulgent, cheesy profile, creating a well-rounded meal.
  • Match with Crispy Green Salad: A light, tangy mixed green salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a fresh counterpoint to the rich, creamy potato cups, cleansing the palate between bites.

Potato Cup Recipe Variations

  • Vegan Herb Potato Cups: Replace milk with unsweetened almond milk, swap butter with olive oil, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and add chopped fresh herbs like chives or rosemary for extra flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Potato Cups: Substitute whole milk with coconut milk, use dairy-free margarine, and sprinkle nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternative on top for a creamy texture.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Cups: Swap potatoes with riced cauliflower, reduce cooking time to 10-15 minutes, and add extra cheese and herbs for added richness and depth.
  • Gluten-Free Spicy Potato Cups: Keep the original recipe ingredients, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for heat, and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for sensitive individuals.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like pecorino romano or aged cheddar for a similar flavor profile and texture.

  • How do I prevent the potato cups from sticking to the muffin tin?

Thoroughly grease the muffin tin with cooking spray or butter. You can also use parchment paper liners for easier removal and less sticking.

  • Is there a way to make these potato cups ahead of time?

You can prepare the potato mixture in advance and refrigerate. When ready to bake, fill the muffin tin and bake as directed. Alternatively, you can fully bake them and reheat in the oven before serving.

  • Can I make these potato cups vegetarian or dairy-free?

For a vegetarian version, use plant-based milk and butter. For dairy-free, substitute with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter.

Why Parmesan Potato Cups Work

  • Customize with Ease: Adapt these potato cups to suit individual tastes by swapping Parmesan for cheddar or adding herbs like chives for a personalized touch.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Prepare these delightful potato cups ahead of time and reheat for a quick, delicious side dish that saves precious cooking time during busy weekdays.
  • Kid-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Transform boring mashed potatoes into fun, crispy cups that children will love, making mealtime more exciting and encouraging them to enjoy vegetables.
  • Versatile Party Starter: Perfect for gatherings, these individual potato cups serve as an elegant appetizer or side dish that looks impressive and tastes incredible, guaranteed to wow guests at dinner parties or potlucks.
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Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups Recipe


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4.8 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy garlic parmesan mashed potato cups elevate comfort food with an elegant twist. Crispy edges and a golden-brown crust promise a delightful culinary experience you’ll savor down to the last delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg

Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) whole milk
  • 1/4 cup (57 grams) unsalted butter

Seasoning and Finishing Ingredients:

  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray or butter for greasing
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by generously coating with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy release of potato cups.
  2. Dice potatoes and submerge in a large pot of cold water, bringing to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to simmer until potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork, approximately 15-20 minutes.
  3. Drain potatoes completely and return to the pot, allowing residual heat to evaporate excess moisture.
  4. Incorporate minced garlic, whole milk, and unsalted butter into the potatoes, mashing vigorously until achieving a smooth, creamy consistency with no lumps remaining.
  5. Fold in grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and evenly distributed throughout the potato mixture.
  6. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, adjusting to personal taste preferences.
  7. Allow potato mixture to cool slightly to prevent egg from scrambling, then gently fold in the beaten egg until fully integrated.
  8. Carefully spoon the potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, pressing gently to eliminate air pockets and create uniform cups.
  9. Smooth the surface of each potato cup for an elegant presentation.
  10. Place the muffin tin in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until tops develop a golden-brown crust and edges become delightfully crispy.
  11. Remove from oven and allow potato cups to rest in the tin for a few minutes, helping them set and maintain their shape.
  12. Gently extract potato cups from the tin and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm.

Notes

  • Ensure potatoes are completely dry after draining to achieve a fluffy texture without excess moisture.
  • Allow mashed potato mixture to cool slightly before adding egg to prevent accidental scrambling and maintain smooth consistency.
  • Experiment with cheese variations like sharp cheddar or gouda for different flavor profiles and exciting taste experiences.
  • For gluten-free option, verify Parmesan cheese is certified gluten-free and use alternative butter if needed.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 275
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Angelina Wiles

Angelina Wiles

Content Editor & Culinary Enthusiast

Expertise

Food Writing and Editing, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine, Baking and Pastry Arts, Sustainable Cooking Practices​

Education

Portland Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Emphasis on sustainable cooking practices, vegetarian cuisine, and food writing.​

​Oregon Culinary Institute
Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts
Focus: Specialized training in artisanal baking, pastry techniques, and dessert presentation.


Angelina’s love for cooking started with handwritten family recipes and weekend trips to farmers’ markets around Portland. She followed her passion with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Portland Community College, then perfected her sweet side with a Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts at Oregon Culinary Institute.
Angelina believes recipes should feel like a conversation, not a science project. She’s all about helping readers trust themselves in the kitchen with simple steps, fresh ideas, and easy twists on classic meals.
When she’s not editing recipes, she’s baking bread, sipping coffee, or getting inspired by the changing seasons.

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