If potatoes are your comfort food love language, you’re going to want these on repeat. Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests are the perfect mix of crispy on the outside and rich and creamy on the inside. Shaped like little bowls, these golden nests are filled with your favorite savory toppings—think gooey cheese, smoky bacon, creamy avocado, or sautéed veggies.
Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch, prepping a party spread, or just want something fun for dinner, these potato nests are a total crowd-pleaser.
🥔 Why You’ll Be Obsessed with These Nests
Here’s why this recipe needs a spot in your rotation:
- Crispy + Creamy Combo: The edges crisp up like hash browns while the center stays soft and fluffy.
- Customizable Fillings: Mix and match fillings based on your taste—or what’s in your fridge.
- Great for Any Occasion: Serve them as appetizers, a fun side dish, or even a hearty breakfast base.
- Prep Ahead Friendly: Make the nests in advance and simply fill and reheat when needed.
- Perfect for Sharing: Easy to double or triple for guests or meal prep.
🧄 What You’ll Need
For the Potato Nests:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 egg
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work great)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp flour or breadcrumbs (to help bind)
- Oil for pan-frying or baking spray for oven use
Fillings (Choose Your Faves):
- Crumbled bacon
- Scrambled eggs
- Sautéed mushrooms and spinach
- Shredded chicken or grilled shrimp
- Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or cheese
🔪 How to Make Them – Step by Step
Step 1: Boil & Mash
Peel your potatoes and boil until tender—about 15–20 minutes. Drain and mash them while still warm.
Step 2: Mix the Base
To your mashed potatoes, add the egg, salt, pepper, cheese, and flour or breadcrumbs. Stir until the mixture sticks together when pressed.
Step 3: Shape the Nests
Grease a muffin tin or line ramekins with parchment. Press the mixture into each cup, shaping a small well in the center to hold your filling.
Step 4: Bake or Fry
- Oven method: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
- Frying method: Pan-fry in a bit of oil until each side is golden brown and crisp.
Step 5: Fill and Serve
Once cooked, add your chosen fillings and serve warm.
💡 Handy Tips for Perfect Potato Nests
- Use Russet Potatoes: Their starch content makes them ideal for shaping and crisping.
- Don’t Skip the Egg: It helps hold the nests together—no crumbling allowed.
- Add Cheese for Extra Flavor: It also acts as a secondary binder.
- Double Up: Add a layer of filling, then more mashed potatoes on top for stuffed potato “pies.”
- Prep in Advance: Make the nests a day ahead and reheat in the oven to keep the crisp factor.
🍴 Filling Combos You’ll Want to Try
Classic Comfort
- Cheddar cheese
- Bacon bits
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
Healthier Option
- Sautéed kale
- Cherry tomatoes
- Feta cheese
- Lemon-garlic drizzle
Brunch Vibes
- Poached or fried egg
- Avocado
- Hot sauce or sriracha mayo
- Smoked salmon
Meat Lover’s Dream
- Pulled chicken or beef
- Barbecue sauce
- Jalapeños
- Pepper jack cheese
❓ FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, just make them a bit thicker and mix in egg and flour so they hold their shape.
How long do leftovers last?
Store cooked nests in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to bring back the crisp.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Shape the nests and freeze them raw on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen.
Are they gluten-free?
They can be! Just swap the flour or breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative.
✅ Final Thoughts
Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests bring together everything you love about potatoes—warmth, crunch, and comfort—in a bite-sized form. With their crisp edges, fluffy centers, and endless filling options, these little nests are as fun to make as they are to eat.
Whether you’re cooking for guests or making a cozy meal for one, these nests are guaranteed to impress.
