Name: Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups mashed potatoes (cooled, fresh or leftover); 2 large eggs; 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided; 2 cloves garlic, minced or roasted; 2 tbsp chopped chives or green onions (optional); 2 tbsp butter, melted; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Nonstick cooking spray or additional butter for greasing muffin tin

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Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with savory flavor in every bite. They’re made by baking scoops of mashed potatoes in a muffin tin until golden and cheesy, creating individual portions that are perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or even meal prep. I love how they turn a classic side dish into something just a little more fun and impressive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these mashed potato cups because they take everything I enjoy about creamy mashed potatoes and add a crisp, cheesy crust. They’re easy to make, serve, and store, and they’re always a hit with guests. The garlic and parmesan give them a bold, comforting flavor, and baking them in a muffin tin means no messy scooping at the table. They’re also a clever way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Mashed potatoes (fresh or leftover, cooled)
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Garlic (minced or roasted)
Eggs
Chives or green onions (optional, finely chopped)
Butter (melted)
Salt
Black pepper
Nonstick cooking spray or additional butter for greasing

Directions

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or nonstick spray.
In a large bowl, I mix the mashed potatoes, eggs, garlic, parmesan, chives, melted butter, salt, and pepper until well combined.
I scoop the mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top and gently pressing down to pack.
I sprinkle a little extra parmesan on top for a crispy, cheesy finish.
I bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges are crisp.
I let them cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes before gently loosening with a knife and lifting them out to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 mashed potato cups and takes around 45 minutes total—15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking. They’re perfect as a side for dinner, a holiday spread, or even as party finger food.

Variations

I’ve added sour cream or cream cheese to the mashed potatoes for extra creaminess. If I want a spicy twist, I sprinkle red pepper flakes or mix in a little chopped jalapeño.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They reheat well in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 5–8 minutes, or in the microwave for 30 seconds (though they’re crispier when reheated in the oven). They also freeze well—I let them cool completely, then freeze on a tray before transferring to a container. Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups

FAQs

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

Yes, I often make these with cold leftovers—it saves time and reduces waste. I just make sure the potatoes aren’t too runny.

What type of potatoes work best?

I usually use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes—they mash smoothly and hold together nicely when baked.

Do I have to use eggs?

The eggs help bind the cups and give them structure. I haven’t tried it without them, but egg substitutes like flax eggs might work if needed.

How do I keep them from sticking?

I grease the muffin tin well or use silicone liners. Letting them cool a few minutes before removing also helps them come out cleanly.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes, I bake them fully, let them cool, and store in the fridge or freezer. They reheat easily and taste just as good the next day.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups are a fun, flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. I love how easy they are to serve, how crisp the edges get in the oven, and how customizable the recipe is. Whether I’m using up leftovers or making them fresh for a special meal, these little cups always disappear fast.