Mashed Potato Cups with Savory Minced Meat Filling 🥔🧀🥩
Introduction
Mashed Potato Cups with Savory Minced Meat Filling are a creative twist on the classic comfort food. Fluffy mashed potatoes are shaped into cups, filled with a rich minced meat mixture, and topped with melted cheese. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and visually stunning, making it a perfect centerpiece for family dinners, gatherings, or festive occasions.
History
The combination of potatoes and meat has existed for centuries, from shepherd’s pie in the UK to stuffed potato dumplings in Eastern Europe. These mashed potato cups are a modern culinary innovation inspired by those traditional comfort dishes, offering both familiar flavors and an elegant presentation.
Ingredients
- 5 medium potatoes (peeled and boiled)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 300 g ground beef (or lamb/chicken)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small carrot, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, milk, dill, salt, and pepper.
- In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté onions until golden. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Add carrot, bell pepper, tomato paste, and spices. Cook until vegetables are soft and mixture is flavorful.
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a muffin tray or ramekins.
- Press mashed potatoes into each mold, creating a cup shape.
- Fill each potato cup with the minced meat mixture.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden and cheese is melted.
Methods
The success of this recipe lies in two main methods: fluffy mashed potatoes that can hold their shape, and a rich, aromatic filling. Using a muffin tray makes it easy to create neat cups, while baking ensures everything melds together beautifully.
Benefits
- High in protein from the meat.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals from potatoes and vegetables.
- A balanced dish combining carbs, protein, and fats.
- Visually appealing, making it great for kids and parties.
Formation
These potato cups can be formed into different shapes depending on the mold used. Mini versions work perfectly as appetizers, while larger ones can serve as a main dish.
Conclusion
Mashed Potato Cups with Savory Minced Meat Filling are not just food, they are comfort, warmth, and love served on a plate. They take the humble potato and transform it into something elegant yet familiar.
Lovers
This recipe is loved by children for its cheesy topping, admired by adults for its satisfying flavor, and cherished by families as a dish that brings everyone together at the table.