These savory potato muffins are loaded with cheese, ham, and fresh vegetables, making them a delicious and easy-to-prepare dinner option. Perfect for serving as a side dish or a standalone meal, they’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavor.
Preparation Time
- Active Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 4–5 medium, peeled and grated
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Bell Pepper: 1, finely diced
- Tomato: 1, chopped
- Egg: 1 large
- Cheese: 100 g (1 cup), shredded (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- Ham: To taste, finely diced (about 100 g or ½ cup)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Spring Onions: 2–3, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Sunflower Oil: 1 tablespoon (for greasing muffin tin)
Directions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and grate the potatoes using a coarse grater.
- Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or your hands.
2. Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, cornstarch, onion, bell pepper, tomato, egg, shredded cheese, and diced ham.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well until evenly combined.
3. Prepare the Muffin Tin
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Grease a muffin tin with sunflower oil to prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Muffins
- Spoon the potato mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
- Press the mixture gently to compact it.
5. Bake
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Garnish with chopped spring onions before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side.
- Enjoy as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled fish.
- Pack them for lunch or a picnic.
- Serve with a spicy dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Add herbs like parsley or dill for extra freshness.
- If the mixture seems too wet, add an additional tablespoon of cornstarch.
- To make them vegetarian, skip the ham and add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
- Ensure the potatoes are well-drained to prevent soggy muffins.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: Rich in potassium and vitamin C.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
- Vegetables: Add vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Egg: A great source of protein and healthy fats.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian Option: Omit ham for a vegetarian version.
- Gluten-Free: Uses cornstarch, making it suitable for gluten-free diets.
Nutritional Facts (Per Muffin, Makes 12)
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 1 g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: A simple dinner option that comes together fast.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies, cheeses, or proteins.
- Kid-Friendly: Fun muffin shape makes it appealing to kids.
- Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, protein, and calcium.
- Versatile: Great as a snack, side, or main dish.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Potato Muffins are a delightful combination of crispy edges, creamy cheese, and hearty ham. They’re versatile, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks. Try them today for a simple yet delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes work well and add a natural sweetness.
- What cheese is best for this recipe? Cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda are great options.
- Can I make this recipe vegan? Substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg, omit the ham, and use vegan cheese.
- How do I prevent the muffins from sticking? Ensure the muffin tin is well-greased or use silicone muffin liners.
- Can I add other proteins? Yes, cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or tofu work well.
- What other vegetables can I use? Try zucchini, spinach, or grated carrots.
- Can I make these muffins ahead of time? Yes, prepare and bake them in advance, then reheat before serving.
- Can I fry these instead of baking? Yes, shape them into patties and pan-fry until golden.
- What can I serve these muffins with? Pair with a salad, soup, or dipping sauce like tzatziki.
- How do I make them extra crispy? Bake a few extra minutes or broil for 2–3 minutes at the end