These Loaded Mashed Potato Cups are a fun twist on regular mashed potatoes! You get creamy, buttery potatoes packed into little cups and topped with cheese, bacon bits, and green onions.
They’re perfect for parties or as a side dish. I love how easy they are to grab and eat—no mess, just deliciousness in every bite! Plus, who doesn’t love a potato that’s dressed up like this? 🥔💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for mashing due to their starchy texture. If you don’t have Russets, you can use Yukon Golds. They are creamy and buttery and make a great alternative.
Sour Cream: This adds richness and a bit of tang to the mashed potatoes. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can work well as a substitute. It’s creamy and adds protein!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a nice flavor. If you want a twist, try Pepper Jack for some heat, or mozzarella for a milder cheese. You could also mix different cheeses for a more complex flavor.
Bacon: It adds a delicious crunch and smokiness. If you want a vegetarian option, you can skip it or use crispy plant-based bacon. Alternatively, try sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Get Creamy and Fluffy Mashed Potatoes?
Getting the perfect mash is crucial for these cups! Start by boiling your potatoes until they are fork-tender. Drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture, which can make them gummy.
- Use a potato masher, ricer, or fork to break them down until smooth.
- Add warm milk and butter to the potatoes to keep them nice and fluffy. Cold ingredients can cool down your mash.
Season generously with salt and pepper, and mix until just combined. Over-mixing can make them sticky, so a gentle hand is best!
Loaded Mashed Potato Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing muffin tin
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep and cooking time. Get ready to bake those delicious potato cups in about 15-20 minutes, so you can enjoy them warm and crispy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, take your 12-cup muffin tin and grease it well with cooking spray or butter to make it easy to remove the cups later.
2. Boil the Potatoes:
Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot. Fill it with water to cover the potatoes and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook them for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender enough to pierce with a fork. Once done, drain the water well.
3. Mash the Potatoes:
Transfer the drained potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes until they’re smooth. No lumps allowed! This is key for creamy mashed potatoes.
4. Mix in the Goodies:
Now it’s time to add in all the delicious ingredients! Stir in the sour cream, milk, and butter. Then, add 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, the crumbled bacon, and the chopped chives or green onions. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! Mix everything together until well combined and creamy.
5. Fill the Muffin Cups:
Spoon the fluffy potato mixture into each muffin cup, making sure to press it slightly against the bottom and sides so they hold their shape. Fill each cup evenly.
6. Top with Cheese and Bacon:
Now it’s time to make them even more delicious! Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each potato cup. And don’t forget to add some extra crumbled bacon for that crunchy goodness!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye out for that beautiful golden brown color and bubbling cheese on top. That’s when you know they’re ready!
8. Cool and Remove:
Once baked, take the muffin tin out of the oven and let the potato cups cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle when removing them from the tin. Gently run a knife around the edges if needed, then lift them out.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, add a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or green onions on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your delightfully loaded mashed potato cups warm and watch them disappear in no time!
Enjoy these loaded, cheesy, crispy-on-the-edges mashed potato cups as a delicious appetizer or side dish!
Can I Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! This is a great way to use up any leftover mashed potatoes. Just make sure they’re not overly watery; if they are, consider thickening them with a bit more cheese or sour cream to maintain the right texture when baking.
Can I Freeze Loaded Mashed Potato Cups?
Yes! You can freeze these potato cups either before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, assemble them as directed, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding about 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute. It adds creaminess and a slight tang that complements the potatoes well. You could also use cream cheese for a richer flavor!
How Do I Make These Cups Spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mashed potato mixture. You can also use Pepper Jack cheese as your cheese choice for an extra kick!
