Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests Recipe

 

A Crispy, Creamy, and Savory Comfort Dish

These Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests are the ultimate comfort food—golden and crispy on the outside, rich and cheesy on the inside, with a hearty beef filling that’s packed with flavor. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy family dinner, these nests are a delicious way to elevate simple ingredients into something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

 Elegant yet easy – Fancy enough for guests but simple enough for weeknights.
 Customizable – Swap the beef for mushrooms, chicken, or lentils for a vegetarian twist.
 Great for meal prep – The filling can be made ahead for quick assembly.
 Kid-approved – Fun to eat and full of cheesy goodness.
 Perfect texture – Creamy mashed potatoes with a crispy exterior and melty cheese topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 3-5 large potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 3.5 tbsp (50g) unsalted butter

• A handful of fresh dill, finely chopped

• Salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, and oregano (to taste)

For the Beef Filling:

• 1.1 lbs (500g) ground beef

• 1 medium onion, finely diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 large tomato, diced

• 2.5 oz (70g) tomato paste

• A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 3.5 oz (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

• Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15-20 minutes). Drain well.

• Mash the potatoes with butter until smooth. Stir in dill, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Set aside.

2. Make the Beef Filling

• In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef.

• Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.

• Stir in bell pepper and tomato, cooking for 5 minutes.

• Mix in tomato paste, then remove from heat and stir in parsley.

3. Assemble the Nests

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• Shape the mashed potatoes into round nests, pressing the centers to create wells.

4. Fill & Bake

• Spoon the beef mixture into each nest, then top with shredded mozzarella.

• Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream.

• Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Enjoy these irresistibly cheesy, savory potato nests—they’re sure to become a family favorite!