Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests | A Fun & Delicious Comfort Food Recipe

Looking for a creative twist on classic mashed potatoes? These Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and filled with savory goodness. Whether you’re making them as a holiday side dish, a dinner party appetizer, or a fun family meal, these potato nests are as beautiful as they are tasty.

Perfect for Easter, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion, they’re a dish that will impress your guests while still being simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy & creamy: Golden-brown potato nests hold a fluffy mashed potato filling.
Customizable: Fill with cheese, bacon, veggies, or even eggs for brunch.
Kid-friendly: Fun to eat, with a comforting, cheesy flavor kids will love.
Make-ahead option: Prepare the nests ahead of time and bake before serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the potato nests:

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and boiled
2 tbsp butter
1/2 cup milk (or cream for richness)
1 egg yolk
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the stuffing:

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
1/4 cup steamed peas or corn (optional for color)
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the mashed potatoes – Mash boiled potatoes with butter, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Stir in the egg yolk to help bind the mixture.
Shape the nests – Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a muffin tin. Spoon mashed potatoes into each cup and use the back of a spoon to create a well in the center, forming a “nest.”
Add the stuffing – Fill each nest with cheese, bacon, peas, or any desired fillings.
Bake until golden – Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the cheese is melted.
Garnish & serve – Remove carefully from the muffin tin, sprinkle with parsley or chives, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Cheesy center: Try stuffing with cream cheese or brie for a creamy surprise.
Breakfast version: Crack a small quail egg into the center before baking for an elegant brunch dish.
Vegetarian option: Skip the bacon and load with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Make ahead: Prepare the nests, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
Extra crispy: Brush the edges with melted butter for more crunch.

Final Thoughts

These Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests are the ultimate way to upgrade plain mashed potatoes into a stunning dish. With endless filling options, they work for holidays, potlucks, or even weeknight dinners when you want something extra special. Crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, they’re bound to become a family favorite.