Name: Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins That Will Delight Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared and cooled); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 large eggs; ½ cup sour cream; ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

As I rummaged through my pantry, the thought struck me: why not turn my leftover mashed potatoes into something magical? That’s when the idea of Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins was born. These delightful little bites not only transform your leftover mash into a fun, crowd-pleasing dish, but they’re also incredibly simple to whip up—perfect for those bustling weeknights. With gooey cheddar cheese and a hint of garlic, each muffin is a satisfying comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, making them a convenient option for busy days. Are you ready to discover how to make these cheesy delights that bring warmth to the dinner table?

Why Are These Muffins a Must-Try?

Deliciously Unique: These Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins elevate traditional comfort food into a fun, handheld treat that everyone will love.

Quick Cooking: With just about 50-60 minutes needed, you can whip up a batch after a long day, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to get creative! Swap in different cheeses or add in your favorite herbs. You can check out more flavorful options in our Baked Potato Recipes.

Perfect for Leftovers: Transform those leftover mashed potatoes into something special, minimizing food waste and maximizing flavor.

Freezer-Friendly: Store any extras in the freezer for a quick reheatable snack enjoyed anytime!

Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins Ingredients

• Here's what you'll need to create these delightful cheesy bites!

For the Muffins

Mashed potatoes – 3 cups of prepared and cooled mash are perfect for creating a creamy texture.
Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup adds a luscious, gooey flavor that makes these muffins irresistible.
Large eggs – 2 provide structure and richness for each muffin.
Sour cream – ½ cup contributes a delightful creaminess and a subtle tang.
Unsalted butter – ¼ cup melted helps to bind the ingredients together while enhancing the flavor.
Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon infuses a warm, savory depth that elevates the overall taste.
Onion powder – 1 teaspoon adds a hint of sweetness and complexity to the muffins.
Salt – ½ teaspoon enhances all the flavors for a well-balanced dish.
Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon gives a subtle kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture.
Chopped green onions (optional) – ¼ cup adds a fresh, vibrant note if you're looking to jazz up the flavor profile.

For the Topping

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – ½ cup for a crunchy, cheesy finish that’ll make everyone want that golden top!

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins will bring smiles to your table and make the most out of those leftovers. Enjoy the cooking adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with muffin liners. This step ensures that your Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins won’t stick, making for easy removal and a clean presentation.

Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes
If you haven't already prepared your mashed potatoes, peel, cut, and boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash them until smooth; allow the mash to cool to room temperature. This creamy base is essential for your delicious muffins.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 large eggs, ½ cup of sour cream, and ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter until well combined. You’ll want a smooth and creamy mixture as this forms the foundation of your savory Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins and adds richness and tanginess.

Step 4: Mix in Mashed Potatoes
Add the cooled mashed potatoes to the egg mixture, stirring gently until they are well blended. Then, fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. The combination of these ingredients creates a deliciously cheesy and creamy texture that makes your muffins utterly irresistible.

Step 5: Season the Mixture
Next, mix in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. If you’re using them, gently fold in ¼ cup of chopped green onions for added freshness. This step enhances the flavors, ensuring each muffin bursts with savory goodness.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the potato mixture evenly into your prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Using an ice cream scoop makes this easy and fun! This will give your Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins a nice rise and shape during baking.

Step 7: Add the Topping
For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top of each muffin, if desired. This optional step enhances the overall flavor and creates a delightful, crunchy topping that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and once the tops are golden brown, they’re ready! A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean to ensure they’re perfectly cooked.

Step 9: Cool and Serve
After baking, allow the Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. This helps them set before gently transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps maintain their shape and enhances the flavors as they settle.

Step 10: Store or Enjoy Warm
Enjoy your muffins warm, or store any leftovers in an airtight container for future cravings. These muffins are not only a delicious treat but also make great snacks or quick meals throughout the week, showcasing the magic of your leftover mashed potatoes!

What to Serve with Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins

Transform your cheesy bite-sized treats into a complete meal that will capture hearts and taste buds alike.

Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad with crunchy greens balances the creamy texture of the muffins, adding vitality to your plate. Toss in a tangy vinaigrette for an extra zest.
Savory Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring a lovely sweetness and caramelization, perfectly complementing the muffins' richness while infusing vibrant colors to the meal.
Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic pairing provides a warm, tangy element that pairs beautifully with the muffins, making for a comforting experience to savor.
Garlic Bread Sticks: The buttery, garlicky flavor of breadsticks creates a delightful contrast to the cheesy richness, making them impossible to resist alongside the muffins.
Grilled Chicken Breast: A juicy, herb-marinated grilled chicken adds a dose of protein that balances the meal wonderfully, making it both hearty and satisfying.
Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy slaw adds a delightful crunch, providing a crisp contrast to the warm, cheesy muffins that everyone will adore.
Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: A chilled, fruity iced tea brings a refreshing wash to your palate between bites while being the perfect drink for this delightful spread.
Apple Crisp: End on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp that lends a comforting finish, making the meal memorable and perfect for cozy evenings.

Helpful Tricks for Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins

Perfect Consistency: Ensure your mashed potatoes are thoroughly cooled before mixing them in. Warm potatoes can create a gummy texture in your muffins.

Measure Accurately: Use precise measurements for ingredients like cheese and seasonings. Too much cheese can make the muffins overly rich and heavy!

Grease Well: Don’t skip greasing the muffin tin or using liners. This prevents your delicious Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins from sticking and keeps cleanup a breeze.

Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the muffins during the last few minutes of baking. Every oven is different, and you want those tops golden but not burnt!

Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in herbs or other cheeses to customize your muffins. Just remember, balance is key for an unforgettable taste experience!

Cool Before Storing: Ensure that muffins cool completely before storing them. This helps to maintain their texture and flavor for future enjoyment.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mashed potatoes and mix the muffin ingredients up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container. Just be sure to keep the mixture covered to maintain freshness and prevent any browning. When you're ready to bake, simply spoon the mixture into the muffin tin, add the topping if desired, and bake as instructed. This efficient approach allows you to enjoy homemade comfort food on busy nights with minimal effort, ensuring your muffins are just as delicious as if made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins

Fridge: Store leftover Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature for a quick snack.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy from the fridge, simply warm them in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. From frozen, reheat directly from the freezer in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Airtight Containers: When freezing, use airtight bags or containers to prevent freezer burn, ensuring your Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins stay flavorful and fresh!

Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful muffins to suit your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream with dairy-free yogurt and use plant-based cheese to keep it creamy without dairy.
Spice It Up: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that will awaken your taste buds. If you're a fan of heat, you can always adjust the spice levels to your liking!
Bacon Lovers: Fold in ½ cup of crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky, savory twist. The rich flavor of bacon pairs wonderfully with the creamy potatoes, making for a mouthwatering combination.
Herb Infusion: Mix in 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs such as parsley or thyme for a burst of freshness. This not only adds flavor but also gives your muffins a beautiful pop of color.
Veggie Packed: Stir in 1 cup of finely chopped cooked vegetables like spinach, carrots, or bell peppers. This variation not only enhances nutrition but brings delightful texture and color to your muffins.
Cheesy Goodness: Use a blend of different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or Gruyère, for a melty, gourmet flavor. Experimenting with various cheeses can elevate the taste profile and make it uniquely yours.
Gluten-Free: Replace traditional all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to make these muffins suitable for gluten-intolerant friends and family. Enjoy the same fluffy texture in a gluten-friendly way!
Zesty Lemon: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the flavor. This twist is perfect for those lazy summer days when a little zest adds excitement to every bite.

Feel free to explore these variations, and turn your Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins into a unique dish that reflects your culinary style! For more delicious spin-offs, check out our Baked Potato Recipes and see how you can bring new flavors to the table!

Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right potatoes for my mashed potato muffins?
Absolutely! For the best texture, opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. These varieties create a creamier mash that will elevate your Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins. Avoid waxy potatoes as they can lead to a gummy texture.

How long can I store my Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins in the refrigerator?
You can store your Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re delightful warm or at room temperature, making them a perfect quick snack over a few days!

Can I freeze the muffins for later use? What’s the best method?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze them! First, place the muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re solid—this prevents them from sticking together. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can reheat directly from frozen!

What if my muffins turn out too dry or gummy?
If your muffins are dry, ensure your mashed potatoes had enough moisture when mixed; adding a bit more sour cream can help. For gummy muffins, make sure your mashed potatoes are completely cooled before incorporating them into the mixture. This is crucial for preventing a dense texture!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! These muffins contain dairy and eggs, so they're not suitable for vegans or those with lactose intolerance. If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, consider using plant-based butter and a dairy-free cheese alternative. Always check ingredient labels to avoid allergens.

Can I customize these muffins with different ingredients?
Very much so! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses or add in veggies like diced bell peppers or spinach. Just remember to balance flavors for the best results, ensuring they complement the cheese and mashed potatoes in your Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins!