Cheesy Potato Muffins – A Bite-Sized Comfort Food Delight

Looking for a creative way to enjoy mashed potatoes? These Cheesy Potato Muffins are the perfect solution! Soft, fluffy mashed potatoes topped with gooey cheese and baked into muffin form for an easy-to-serve, bite-sized treat. These cheesy potato muffins are perfect for any occasion, from holiday dinners to casual snacks, and they’re sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

For these cheesy potato muffins, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Here’s how to make your irresistible cheesy potato muffins:

1. Boil the Potatoes
   Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
2. Mash the Potatoes
   Mash the boiled potatoes until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Mix everything together until the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
3. Mix in the Cheese
   Stir the shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes, allowing the cheese to melt and incorporate into the mixture.
4. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or butter.
5. Spoon the Potato Mixture
   Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon.
6. Add Parmesan Cheese (Optional)
   For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on top of each muffin before baking. This will give the muffins a crispy, golden finish.
7. Bake the Muffins
   Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. The cheese should be melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve
   Once out of the oven, let the cheesy potato muffins cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped chives and serve while warm.

Why These Cheesy Potato Muffins Are So Delicious

• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes.
• Perfectly Crispy and Soft: The outer crust is golden and crispy, while the inside remains soft, creamy, and cheesy.
• Versatile and Easy: These muffins are a perfect side dish for any meal, an appetizer for gatherings, or a quick snack on their own.

Pro Tips for Making Perfect Cheesy Potato Muffins

• Customize the Flavors: Add cooked bacon bits, chopped green onions, or sautéed garlic to the mashed potato mixture to elevate the flavors.
• Make Ahead: These muffins can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat them in the oven for 5-7 minutes before serving.
• Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or Gruyère for a unique flavor profile.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Potato Muffins are a fun and delicious way to enjoy mashed potatoes. With a crispy exterior, creamy inside, and cheesy topping, they’re the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish for dinner, a snack, or a party appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit. Try them out today and enjoy the cheesy comfort food goodness!