Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups

If you love mashed potatoes and are looking for a fun, individual-sized presentation, these Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups are the perfect solution. These savory, golden potato cups are packed with the flavors of roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese, making them a delightful side dish or appetizer for any meal. They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and easy to make for a crowd.

Ingredients:

• 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  Russet potatoes are starchy, making them ideal for fluffy mashed potatoes.
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing
  Used to grease your baking dish or serving vessel if desired.
• 1 large egg
  The egg adds richness and helps bind the mashed potatoes, giving them a velvety texture.
• Salt and pepper, to taste
  Season to your liking to enhance the flavors of the garlic and Parmesan.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  Butter gives these mashed potatoes a rich, creamy consistency and helps balance the savory garlic and Parmesan.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  Parmesan adds a nutty, savory flavor to the mashed potatoes, making them extra special.
• 1/2 cup whole milk
  Whole milk makes the mashed potatoes smooth and creamy. You can substitute with heavy cream for an even richer texture.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  Parsley adds a fresh, herby contrast and brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
  Garlic is key to infusing the mashed potatoes with a deep, savory flavor.

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

• In a large pot, add the peeled and cubed potatoes and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
• Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
• Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Let them sit for a few minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic and Butter

• While the potatoes are cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a small pan over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic to the butter and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
• Remove the garlic butter from the heat and set aside.

Step 3: Mash the Potatoes

• Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash the cooked potatoes until smooth and lump-free.
• Gradually add the warm milk, garlic butter mixture, and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully combined.
• Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Add the Egg

• Lightly beat the large egg in a small bowl.
• Slowly stir the beaten egg into the mashed potato mixture. The egg will help the mashed potatoes hold their shape and create a nice, golden crust while baking.

Step 5: Prepare the Muffin Tin

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tin

• Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the tops slightly.
• Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top of each cup for added crispiness and flavor.

Step 7: Bake the Potato Cups

• Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops of the potato cups are golden brown and slightly crispy.
• Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the potato cups to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

• Carefully remove the mashed potato cups from the muffin tin using a fork or spatula.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm as a side dish or appetizer.

Serving and Storage Tips:

• Serving: These mashed potato cups are perfect as a side dish for a holiday meal or a fun appetizer at parties. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of gravy for extra flavor.
• Storage: Store any leftover potato cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Helpful Notes:

• Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for mashed potatoes due to their starchy texture, which results in a fluffy and creamy consistency.
• Don’t Overmix the Potatoes: Overmixing can lead to a gluey texture, so mash until smooth but be careful not to overwork the potatoes.
• For Extra Crispiness: If you like a crispier texture, you can brush the tops of the potato cups with a little melted butter before baking.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs:

• Chef Jacques Pépin: “Always season your mashed potatoes well with salt and pepper while mashing, as it ensures the flavors meld together for a perfectly seasoned dish.”
• Chef Gordon Ramsay: “Roast the garlic before mashing it into the potatoes for an even deeper, caramelized flavor.”

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1: Can I use different potatoes for this recipe?
A1: Yes! Yukon Gold potatoes also work well due to their creamy texture, but avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes as they don’t mash as smoothly.

Q2: Can I make these potato cups ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potato mixture and fill the muffin tin in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A3: Yes! Cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella are great substitutes for Parmesan, depending on your flavor preference.

Q4: How can I make these cups dairy-free?
A4: Substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use a non-dairy milk alternative, such as almond milk or coconut milk. You can also use vegan Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

Q5: How do I prevent the mashed potato cups from sticking to the muffin tin?
A5: Be sure to generously grease each muffin cup with cooking spray or butter, or you can line the cups with parchment paper liners for easy removal.

Q6: Can I add other ingredients to the mashed potatoes?
A6: Yes! Feel free to mix in cooked bacon bits, chives, or shredded cheese for extra flavor and texture.

Q7: Can I freeze these mashed potato cups?
A7: Yes, you can freeze them! Allow the cups to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

Q8: How many servings does this recipe make?
A8: This recipe yields about 12 mashed potato cups, perfect for serving as a side dish for 4-6 people.

Q9: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
A9: Yes, you can substitute the fresh garlic with about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, but fresh garlic will give the best flavor.

Q10: Can I make these cups without the egg?
A10: Yes, but the egg helps the cups hold their shape. If you prefer to skip the egg, the cups may be softer and less firm, but they will still taste delicious.

These Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potato Cups are a fun and delicious way to serve mashed potatoes with a bit of flair. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they’re sure to be a hit at your next dinner or gathering! Enjoy!