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Cheesy Mashed Potato Nests Stuffed with Savory Ground Meat
Introduction
Cheesy Mashed Potato Nests Stuffed with Savory Ground Meat is a hearty and comforting dish that combines creamy, cheesy potatoes with a flavorful meat filling.
Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, this recipe is not only satisfying but also visually appealing, making it a standout option for both weeknights and holidays.
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potato Nests:
4 large potatoes, peeled and boiled
2 tablespoons butter
1 egg yolk
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill or parsley
¼ cup grated cheese (optional, for added flavor)
For the Filling:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 lb (450 g) ground beef or ground turkey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions
Begin by preparing the mashed potato nests. Mash the boiled potatoes with butter until smooth, then mix in the egg yolk, salt, pepper, fresh herbs, and grated cheese if using.
Spoon the mixture into greased muffin tins, shaping them into little nests with a hollow center. Bake the nests briefly to firm them up before filling.
For the filling, heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the onion and red bell pepper until softened. Add the ground meat, breaking it apart as it cooks, and stir in garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Once browned, mix in tomato sauce and simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors. Spoon the savory mixture into the potato nests, then top with shredded cheese. Return to the oven until the cheese melts and turns golden.
How to Make
To create the perfect potato nests, make sure the mashed potatoes are smooth and creamy, which allows them to hold their shape better in the muffin tins.
Pre-baking the nests helps them stay sturdy for the filling. The filling should be rich and flavorful, so allow the meat and vegetables to cook down well with the tomato sauce.
Once topped with cheese and baked again, the dish comes together with a crispy potato edge, a savory center, and a gooey cheese topping that makes it irresistible.
Variations
These nests can be made with different fillings to suit your taste. Try swapping the ground beef or turkey with ground chicken, sausage, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
You can also experiment with different cheeses such as gouda, pepper jack, or parmesan for a new flavor twist.
For a lighter version, use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes, which adds a natural sweetness to balance the savory filling.
Tips
Use a piping bag or spoon to shape the mashed potatoes neatly into nests for a more elegant presentation.
To prevent sticking, grease the muffin tin well or use silicone molds for easy release. If making ahead, you can prepare both the potato nests and filling separately.
refrigerate, and then assemble and bake when ready to serve. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of sour cream before serving can elevate the flavor and presentation even further.
Conclusion
Cheesy Mashed Potato Nests Stuffed with Savory Ground Meat are a delightful way to enjoy comfort food with a creative twist.
Crispy on the outside, creamy inside, and packed with a flavorful filling, they’re sure to impress guests and satisfy the whole family.
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