Dinner

Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests Recipe

BySana Jeannette February 18, 2026February 18, 2026

Introduction

These stuffed mashed potato nests are a comforting and delicious snack or side dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes with savory bacon, cheese, and green onions. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they are perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

The image shows stuffed mashed potato nests arranged in a close-up view. Each nest has two layers: the bottom and outer layer is a creamy pale yellow mashed potato mixed with green herbs, shaped in a thick circular nest. Inside this potato nest is a filling layer of cooked ground meat mixed with small pieces of red and yellow vegetables. The top layer is melted golden cheese slightly browned with fresh green dill placed on top. The nests are placed on a dark stone surface with some dill sprigs scattered around, with a white marbled texture in the background. The overall look is warm, cheesy, and savory. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes
1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled

1/2 cup green onions, chopped
1/2 cup sour cream
1 egg

Olive oil for brushing

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the nests.
Step 2: Peel and cut the russet potatoes into chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water, bring to a boil, and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, softened butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Let the mashed potatoes cool slightly, then fold in shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, sour cream, and the egg. Mix well to combine.
Step 5: Lightly brush a muffin tin with olive oil. Scoop a generous portion of the potato mixture into each muffin cup, pressing down in the center to form a nest shape.

Step 6: Optionally, add extra cheese and bacon on top of each nest for more flavor.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the nests are golden brown and crispy around the edges.
Step 8: Allow the nests to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables instead.
Use different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.
To make the nests extra crispy, sprinkle a little paprika or Parmesan on top before baking.

Storage

Store leftover potato nests in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

The dish shows nests made from mashed potatoes mixed with green herbs, forming thick cylindrical walls with a smooth but rustic texture, each nest about two layers high. Inside the nests, there is a filling of cooked ground meat, rich brown in color, mixed with small pieces of red bell pepper and corn kernels, creating a moist and crumbly texture. The top of each nest is crowned with melted cheese, golden brown and slightly bubbly, garnished with a small sprig of fresh dill. The nests sit on a white plate with a white marbled texture in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these potato nests ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture and assemble the nests in the muffin tin a few hours before baking. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Can I freeze stuffed mashed potato nests?

Absolutely. Freeze baked nests in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven from frozen until heated through and crispy.