Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins Recipe

Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins are the most delicious solution to a fridge full of holiday mashed potatoes and a craving for something snackable, savory, and a little bit special. Imagine perfectly portable, golden-topped muffins, packed with creamy potatoes, gooey cheese, and flecks of fresh spinach — they’re irresistible straight from the oven or even the next day (if they last that long!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins is in their simplicity — each ingredient plays an essential role, creating a snack that’s moist, cheesy, and full of flavor. Here’s how each component contributes to those fluffy, savory bites.

• Cooking spray: This little step makes unmolding the muffins a breeze. Don’t skip it!
• 2 large eggs: Eggs are the binders that hold everything together and help the muffins rise just a touch.
• 3.5 cups leftover mashed potatoes: The star of the show! Creamy, already-seasoned potatoes give the muffins their heartiness and flavor.
• 1 cup spinach, finely chopped: Adds color, nutrients, and a quiche-like vibe. Feel free to use fresh or frozen (thawed and squeezed dry) spinach.
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully and adds a savory punch.
• Salt, as needed: Just a pinch enhances everything; taste your potatoes first, since leftovers may already be seasoned.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle background warmth.
• ¼ cup green onions, finely chopped: These add freshness and a subtle onion flavor that’s simply delicious.
• ¼ cup mozzarella cheese (for topping): Mozzarella gives a gooey, melty finish on top of each muffin, making them extra appealing.
• Sour cream (optional): A dollop on top adds tang and creaminess, perfect for serving.

Variations

One of the best things about Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins is how easily you can adapt them to suit your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Mix, match, and make it your own every time!

• Veggie-Packed: Add shredded carrots or chopped broccoli for even more color, texture, and a nutritional boost.
• Meaty Upgrade: Stir in some cooked crumbled bacon, diced ham, or cooked sausage for a hearty breakfast option.
• Cheese Swap: Don’t have cheddar or mozzarella? Try pepper jack, Swiss, or parmesan for a new flavor twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne, red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño for muffins with some heat.
• Herby Goodness: Fresh dill, parsley, or chives make the muffins extra fragrant and flavorful.

How to Make Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Generously grease your muffin pan with cooking spray or a bit of butter. This simple prep step ensures those beautiful muffins pop right out without sticking — trust me, it’s worth the extra minute!

Step 2: Beat the Eggs

In a small bowl, beat your eggs until the yolks and whites are completely combined and a little frothy. This will make mixing into the potatoes much smoother and help bind everything together.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, add your leftover mashed potatoes, beaten eggs, chopped spinach, green onions, salt, pepper, and sharp cheddar cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated — you want a cohesive, thick batter without large chunks of potato or spinach.

Step 4: Fill the Muffin Tin

Using a spoon or a scoop, divide the potato mixture among your greased muffin tin cups, filling each one just over three-quarters full. Smooth the tops gently with the back of your spoon, so you get tidy, rounded muffins.

Step 5: Bake and Add Cheese Topping

Bake the muffins for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the sides are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Sprinkle each muffin with mozzarella (or extra cheddar!) and pop the tray back in for another 2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and irresistible.

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes before easing them out with a small spatula or knife. Serve warm, topped with a spoonful of sour cream and another flurry of green onions for the ultimate cozy bite.

How to Serve Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins

Garnishes

For that extra pop, top warm muffins with a dollop of sour cream, a scatter of finely chopped green onions, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley. The cool sour cream melts gently into the hot muffin, creating the dreamiest bite every time.

Side Dishes

Pair your Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins with a crisp green salad, roasted tomatoes, or a simple veggie soup. They’re fantastic as a brunch centerpiece alongside eggs or as a cozy side for roast chicken or grilled sausages.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your muffins high on a pretty platter for a brunch buffet, or nestle them into a bread basket lined with a napkin for a cozy, family-style feel. For a fun twist, serve them in cupcake liners for grab-and-go lunchbox treats, or arrange on a board with dips and mini pickles as part of a snacky spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your muffins cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. They taste just as dreamy the next day for a grab-and-go snack, lunchbox addition, or quick breakfast.

Freezing

Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins freeze beautifully! Wrap cooled muffins individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months — just thaw overnight in the fridge or zap in the microwave when you need them.

Reheating

For that fresh-from-the-oven flavor, pop refrigerated muffins in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes, or microwave in 20-second bursts until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow them to thaw first for the best texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for the ultimate way to revive leftover mashed potatoes, these muffins are a can’t-miss treat. Give Leftover Mashed Potato Muffins a try — you’ll fall in love with just how cozy, flavorful, and surprisingly fun they are to bake and share. Grab that muffin pan, and let’s make those leftovers the highlight of your week!

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