Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups cold prepared mashed potatoes
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled beef bacon bits (or cooked ground sausage)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Thoroughly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, lightly beaten egg, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Step 3: Scoop approximately 1/3 cup of the potato mixture into each muffin cup. Using the back of a spoon, gently press the potatoes up the sides and around the edges of the cup, forming a deep well or "nest" in the center.
- Step 4: Bake the empty potato nests for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potato edges are golden brown and slightly crispy and firm to the touch.
- Step 5: Carefully remove the nests from the oven. Evenly distribute the cooked turkey bacon bits and chopped fresh chives among the potato wells.
- Step 6: Return the stuffed nests to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the filling to heat through. Let them cool slightly in the tin before using a small offset spatula to carefully remove and serve.
Notes
- Keep any leftovers tightly sealed in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze the cooled nests on a sheet tray before transferring them to a freezer bag for later enjoyment.
- For optimal texture, avoid microwaving; instead, reheat the nests in a 350°F oven or air fryer for about 10 minutes to ensure the potato edges crisp up again.
- Serve these warm nests with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche, perhaps alongside a poached egg or warm gravy for a decadent brunch presentation.
- The critical step for perfectly formed nests is thorough greasing of the muffin tin and using *cold* mashed potatoes; the chilled starch structure holds much better, preventing slump during baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American