Mashed Potato Muffins

 Savory Mashed Potato Muffins – The Perfect Way to Transform Leftovers

Looking for a delicious and creative way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes? These Savory Mashed Potato Muffins are the ultimate solution! Soft, fluffy, and packed with cheesy goodness, they make a versatile snack, side dish, or even a quick breakfast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.

Versatile – Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a savory side dish.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – Cheesy, buttery, and lightly crispy on the outside.

Zero Waste Cooking – Ideal for using up leftover mashed potatoes and avoiding food waste.

These muffins are portable, freezer-friendly, and kid-approved, making them a go-to recipe for busy households. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them as an everyday treat, they’re sure to impress!

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Ingredients

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

1 cup leftover mashed potatoes – The base of this recipe, providing a creamy texture and rich flavor. Use plain or seasoned mashed potatoes to suit your preference.

1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Helps bind the ingredients together while adding structure to the muffins.

1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar, Parmesan, or your choice) – Adds a savory flavor and melty texture. Cheddar gives a sharpness, while Parmesan adds a nutty depth.

1/4 cup milk – Keeps the batter moist and ensures a smooth consistency. Add a little more if your mashed potatoes are very thick.

1 large egg – Acts as a binder to hold everything together and provide structure.

1/4 cup melted butter (or vegetable oil) – Adds moisture and a rich buttery flavor.

2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional) – Enhances the flavor with a mild onion-like aroma.

1 teaspoon baking powder – Ensures the muffins rise and achieve a light, fluffy texture.

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional) – Infuses an extra layer of flavor.

Salt and black pepper, to taste – Seasoning to enhance all the flavors in the mix.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with muffin liners to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, grated cheese, milk, egg, and melted butter.

Add in the chopped chives, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Stir gently until the batter is thick and spoonable.

Pro Tip: If the batter feels too dry, add a splash of milk. If it’s too wet, mix in a tablespoon of flour at a time.

3. Fill the Muffin Cups

Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups. Fill each about 2/3 full to allow room for rising.

4. Bake to Perfection

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven.

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

5. Cool and Serve

Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve warm for the best flavor and texture!

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Why This Recipe Works

These Mashed Potato Muffins are the perfect combination of crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. The cheese melts beautifully, binding the ingredients while adding flavor, and the baking powder ensures lightness without making them dense.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Mashed Potato Muffins

1. Customize Your Flavor – Add crumbled bacon, sautéed onions, or herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flair.

2. Cheese Varieties – Experiment with combinations like Gruyère and Parmesan or a smoky Gouda for depth.

3. Texture Adjustments – If your mashed potatoes are very creamy, you might need extra flour for structure. Conversely, if they’re dry, add a splash of milk for moisture.

4. Crispy Tops – Sprinkle a bit of shredded cheese on top before baking for a golden, crispy crust.

5. Make Ahead and Freeze – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair these savory muffins with:

Breakfast Options – Serve alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon.

Soup and Salad – Complement a hearty soup like broccoli cheddar or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Holiday Feasts – Use them as a unique side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.

Snacks on the Go – Perfect for packed lunches or quick bites throughout the day.

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Final Thoughts – Irresistible Flavor in Every Bite!

These Mashed Potato Muffins are an easy, flavorful, and budget-friendly way to breathe new life into your leftovers. Their golden crust, cheesy center, and fluffy texture make them a hit for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a quick snack, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.

Ready to give these muffins a try? Bookmark this reci

pe and share it with your friends and family! With its simple steps and endless variations, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.