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image of potatoes eggs cheddar parmesan cheese bacon chives parsley butter sour cream bell peppers garlic onions on a white marble counter with glass bowls and wooden utensils under soft natural light from a top down perspective

Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests

Transform leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, golden nests filled with cheese, bacon, eggs, or your favorite proteins. Perfect for a hearty dinner or brunch.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 nests
Course: Appetizer, Breakfast, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 4 cups leftover mashed potatoes thick, not runny
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese finely grated
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour optional
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp paprika optional
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp melted butter for brushing
Stuffing Variations (Choose One or Mix)
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbled
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped chives or scallions
  • 4-6 small eggs for baked eggs in nests
  • 1/4 cup sautéed mushrooms and spinach
  • 1/2 cup pre-cooked ground beef or chicken

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • oven
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Ensure your mashed potatoes are slightly cool. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, flour (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until stiff enough to hold shape.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Using a scoop, place mounds of potato mixture onto the baking sheet. Use the back of a spoon to form a 'nest' shape with thick walls and a deep indentation in the center.
  4. Brush the outside and inside of each nest lightly with melted butter. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden and crispy.
  5. Remove from oven and add your desired filling—cheese, bacon, eggs, or veggies—to the center of each nest.
  6. Return to oven. Bake 5-7 minutes for cheese/meat fillings, or 10-15 minutes for eggs, until bubbly or yolks are cooked to your preference.
  7. Garnish with chives and serve immediately for best texture.

Notes

These nests are best eaten fresh but can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Freezing shells ahead is also a great make-ahead trick.
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