Craving a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings? These Cheesy Potato Cups with Ground Beef are the answer! Combining the fluffy richness of mashed potatoes with a savory ground beef filling, these cups are topped with a cheesy blend that turns golden and bubbly in the oven. Each bite offers a perfect balance of creamy potatoes, seasoned beef, and melted cheese, making them irresistible. Follow this detailed recipe to bring these delicious potato cups to your table!
Ingredients
For the Potato Mixture:
- Potatoes: 1 kg (2 lb 4 oz), peeled and boiled
- Egg: 1 large
- Parmesan Cheese: 30 g (1 oz), grated
- Breadcrumbs: 70 g (3 oz)
- Parsley: Fresh, chopped
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
For the Beef Mixture:
- Ground Beef: 400 g (1 lb)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Salt, Pepper, and Chili Pepper: To taste
For the Topping:
- Cheese: 100 g (4 oz), grated (use your favorite melting cheese like mozzarella or cheddar)
- Cherry Tomatoes: 5, diced
- Mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Cups
Mash the Potatoes: Start by boiling the peeled potatoes until they are fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly before mashing them in a large bowl until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: Add the egg, grated parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when formed into cups.
Shape into Cups: Using your hands or a mold, shape the potato mixture into cup forms, making sure to create a well in the center of each cup for the beef filling. Place these cups on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling
Mix the Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the ground beef with the finely chopped onion, salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili pepper for a bit of heat. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Form Beef Portions: Take small portions of the beef mixture and shape them into balls or patties that will fit into the wells of the potato cups.
Step 3: Assemble the Cups
Fill the Potato Cups: Place the beef portions into the wells of the potato cups, pressing down slightly to ensure a snug fit. The beef should fill the wells without spilling over the sides of the cups.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
Mix the Topping Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the grated cheese, diced cherry tomatoes, and mayonnaise. Stir well until the cheese is coated with the mayonnaise and the tomatoes are evenly distributed.
Add the Topping: Spoon the cheese and tomato mixture over the beef in each potato cup, spreading it out slightly to cover the beef. This topping will melt and create a delicious, golden crust during baking.
Step 5: Bake the Potato Cups
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
Bake: Place the filled potato cups on the baking tray into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tops are golden, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the beef is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Cool Slightly Before Serving: Once baked, allow the cups to cool slightly on the tray for a few minutes. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle.
Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the potato cups to a serving platter and enjoy them warm. They are perfect served alongside a crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Potato Cups with Ground Beef
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a fluffier mash that holds together well when forming the cups.
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add extras like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or shredded zucchini to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Options: While mozzarella or cheddar works great, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, provolone, or a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare these cups in advance up to the baking step. Simply cover and refrigerate them, then bake when ready to serve.
