Stuffed Potato Nests

Delight in the comforting and savory flavors of these Stuffed Potato Nests. Each nest is made from creamy mashed potatoes, perfectly seasoned and shaped into nests. They are filled with a delicious mixture of sautéed mushrooms, onions, garlic, and peppers, adding depth and richness to every bite.

These potato nests are topped with a creamy egg and sour cream mixture, then baked to golden perfection with a generous sprinkle of cheese. The final touch of fresh spring onions adds a pop of color and freshness, making this dish both visually appealing and incredibly tasty. Whether served as a main course or a hearty side dish, these Stuffed Potato Nests are sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • Potato Nests:
    • 1 kg potatoes, coarsely chopped
    • Water (to boil potatoes)
    • 70 g butter
    • Salt, to taste
    • Dried garlic, to taste
    • 2 eggs
    • 15 g corn starch
  • Filling:
    • 1 onion, chopped
    • 30 ml vegetable oil
    • 3 cloves of garlic, chopped
    • 1 pepper, chopped
    • 300 g mushrooms, cut
    • Salt, to taste
    • Paprika, to taste
    • Garlic powder, to taste
    • Basil, to taste
  • Topping:
    • 1 egg
    • 100 g sour cream
    • Salt, to taste
    • Pepper, to taste
    • Turmeric, to taste
    • 100 g cheese, grated
    • Spring onions, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Prepare Potatoes:
    • Place the coarsely chopped potatoes in a pot and fill with water.
    • Cook for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
    • Drain the potatoes, add 70 g butter, and mash well with a fork.
    • Season with salt and dried garlic to taste.
    • Add 2 eggs and 15 g corn starch. Knead until you achieve a smooth consistency.
    • Transfer the mashed potatoes to a piping bag.
  2. Prepare the Filling:
    • Heat 30 ml vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and fry for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
    • Add the chopped garlic and pepper, and fry for another 3-4 minutes.
    • Add the cut mushrooms, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and basil. Fry for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are cooked through.
  3. Form Potato Nests:
    • Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
    • On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, pipe the mashed potatoes into nest shapes.
    • Spoon the prepared filling into the center of each potato nest.
  4. Prepare the Topping:
    • In a small bowl, mix 1 egg, 100 g sour cream, salt, pepper, and turmeric.
    • Drizzle the egg and sour cream mixture over each potato nest.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake the potato nests in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
    • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with 100 g grated cheese.
    • Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes at 180°C until the cheese is melted and golden.
  6. Serve:
    • Garnish with chopped spring onions.
    • Serve hot and enjoy your savory stuffed potato nests!

Tips:

  • Ensure the potatoes are well-cooked and mashed to avoid lumps in the nests.
  • Adjust the seasoning in both the mashed potatoes and the filling to suit your taste preferences.
  • For an extra crispy texture, you can bake the potato nests slightly longer before adding the cheese.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Kcal: 350 kcal per serving (approximate) | Servings: 6 servings

 

Here are some additional tips and information about this recipe:

Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Potato Nests

  1. Smooth Mashed Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are well-cooked and mashed thoroughly to avoid lumps.
  2. Season Generously: Adjust the seasoning in both the mashed potatoes and the filling to your taste preferences.
  3. Crispy Texture: For an extra crispy texture, bake the potato nests slightly longer before adding the cheese.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

  1. Add Protein: Incorporate cooked bacon bits or shredded chicken into the filling for added protein.
  2. Vegetarian Option: Use a variety of vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
  3. Serving Ideas: Pair these nests with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
  • Freezing: The assembled but unbaked nests can be frozen. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a brief look at the nutritional content per serving (approximate values):

  • Calories: 350 kcal per serving
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 3g

Possible Questions About This Recipe

  1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
    • Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a different flavor and added sweetness.
  2. What if I don’t have corn starch?
    • You can use potato starch or even flour as a substitute for corn starch.
  3. How do I make the nests hold their shape?
    • Ensure the mashed potato mixture is firm enough by adding more corn starch or letting it cool slightly before piping.
  4. Can I use other types of cheese?
    • Absolutely! Cheddar, gouda, or even a mix of cheeses would work well in this recipe.
  5. What if my mixture is too runny?
    • Add more corn starch or let the potatoes cool a bit more to firm up before shaping.
  6. Can I make these ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can prepare the nests and filling in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
  7. Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
    • Substitute the butter with vegan butter, use plant-based milk, and replace eggs with flax eggs or a vegan egg substitute.
  8. How do I prevent the nests from sticking to the baking sheet?
    • Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
  9. Can I add herbs to the mashed potatoes?
    • Yes, fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives can add extra flavor to the mashed potatoes.
  10. How do I know when the nests are done baking?
    • The nests are done when they are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Conclusion

These Stuffed Potato Nests are a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any meal. Enjoy making and sharing this flavorful recipe with your friends and family!