Cheesy Potato Muffins

These Cheesy Potato Muffins are savory, fluffy, and loaded with creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish, these muffins are a delightful way to use up leftover mashed potatoes or to treat your family to a warm, cheesy snack.

Total Time

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

  • Mashed Potatoes: 2 cups (about 450 g), cooled
  • Eggs: 2 large
  • Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (100 g), shredded
  • Milk: ½ cup (120 ml)
  • All-Purpose Flour: ½ cup (60 g)
  • Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon (adjust based on the saltiness of your mashed potatoes)
  • Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
  • Chives or Green Onions: 2 tablespoons, chopped
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted (optional)

Optional Add-ins:

  • Cooked bacon bits
  • Diced ham
  • Jalapeños for a spicy kick

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
  • Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with muffin liners.

2. Prepare the Potato Mixture:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, eggs, milk, and melted butter (if using). Mix until smooth.

3. Add the Dry Ingredients:

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the potato mixture, stirring until just combined.

4. Add Cheese and Chives:

  • Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives (or green onions).

5. Fill the Muffin Tin:

  • Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.

6. Bake:

  • Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Serve:

  • Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve as a side dish with soup or stew.
  • Pair with scrambled eggs and bacon for a hearty breakfast.
  • Top with sour cream and additional chives for a loaded potato flavor.
  • Enjoy with a dollop of ketchup or hot sauce.
  • Pack as a snack for picnics or lunchboxes.

Cooking Tips

  • Use leftover mashed potatoes for convenience.
  • Add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
  • Ensure the mashed potatoes are not too runny; thicker potatoes make fluffier muffins.
  • Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan for a richer flavor.
  • For extra crispiness, sprinkle more cheese on top before baking.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Potatoes: Rich in potassium and vitamin C.
  • Eggs: High in protein and essential nutrients.
  • Cheese: Provides calcium and healthy fats.
  • Chives: Add vitamins A and C along with antioxidants.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains no meat.
  • Customizable: Can be made gluten-free by substituting the flour with a gluten-free blend.

Nutritional Facts (Per Muffin, Makes 12)

  • Calories: 120
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g

Storage

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
  • Freezer: Freeze individual muffins for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10-15 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Versatile: Great as a snack, side dish, or breakfast item.
  • Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
  • Comforting Flavors: Cheesy, fluffy, and satisfying.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins to suit your taste.

Conclusion
Cheesy Potato Muffins are a fantastic way to turn humble mashed potatoes into a flavorful, golden treat. These muffins are perfect for any time of the day and are incredibly easy to customize with your favorite add-ins. Enjoy their cheesy goodness fresh out of the oven or as a tasty leftover snack!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes? Yes, but ensure they’re thick and not too runny.
  2. What other cheeses work well? Mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan are great options.
  3. Can I make these gluten-free? Substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
  4. How do I reheat them? Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5-10 minutes or in the microwave.
  5. Can I freeze them? Yes, freeze individually and reheat directly from frozen.
  6. What can I use instead of chives? Green onions, parsley, or dill work well.
  7. Can I make them ahead? Yes, prepare the batter and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.
  8. What can I add for extra flavor? Bacon bits, garlic powder, or paprika enhance the flavor.
  9. Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes add a slightly sweet twist to the recipe.
  10. How long do they last? Up to 5 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.