Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests | A Fun & Delicious Comfort Food Recipe

Looking for a creative twist on classic mashed potatoes? These Stuffed Mashed Potato Nestsare crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and filled with savory goodness. Whether you’re making them as a holiday side dish, a dinner party appetizer, or a fun family meal, these potato nests are as beautiful as they are tasty.

Perfect for Easter, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion, they’re a dish that will impress your guests while still being simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy & creamy: Golden-brown potato nests hold a fluffy mashed potato filling.
Customizable: Fill with cheese, bacon, veggies, or even eggs for brunch.
Kid-friendly: Fun to eat, with a comforting, cheesy flavor kids will love.
Make-ahead option: Prepare the nests ahead of time and bake before serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the potato nests:

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and boiled
2 tbsp butter
1/2 cup milk (or cream for richness)
1 egg yolk
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the stuffing:

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
1/4 cup steamed peas or corn (optional for color)
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the mashed potatoes– Mash boiled potatoes with butter, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Stir in the egg yolk to help bind the mixture.
Shape the nests – Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a muffin tin. Spoon mashed potatoes into each cup and use the back of a spoon to create a well in the center, forming a “nest.”
Add the stuffing – Fill each nest with cheese, bacon, peas, or any desired fillings.
Bake until golden – Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the cheese is melted.
Garnish & serve – Remove carefully from the muffin tin, sprinkle with parsley or chives, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Cheesy center: Try stuffing with cream cheese or brie for a creamy surprise.
Breakfast version: Crack a small quail egg into the center before baking for an elegant brunch dish.
Vegetarian option: Skip the bacon and load with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Make ahead: Prepare the nests, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
Extra crispy: Brush the edges with melted butter for more crunch.

Final Thoughts

These Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests are the ultimate way to upgrade plain mashed potatoes into a stunning dish. With endless filling options, they work for holidays, potlucks, or even weeknight dinners when you want something extra special. Crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, they’re bound to become a family favorite.