If you are craving a delightful little treat that brings together crispy edges, creamy cheesy interiors, and an irresistibly comforting potato flavor, then you have to try this Potato Cups Recipe. These baked potato bites are perfect for a snack, a side dish, or even a party appetizer. Not only are they simple to whip up, but their golden, crunchy exterior combined with the melty, savory cheese and hints of garlic and green onion will leave you wanting more after every bite. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a go-to favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this Potato Cups Recipe are straightforward and easy to find, but each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of texture and flavor. From the starchy russet potatoes to the flavorful cheeses and fresh green onions, every component adds its own magic.
- 4 medium russet potatoes (peeled): These provide the perfect starchy base with a great texture and hold together beautifully when baked.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds that rich, sharp, melty cheesiness that makes each bite indulgent.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the overall taste.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Contributes creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the savory elements.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Helps everything bind and adds a luscious richness without overpowering.
- 2 green onions (finely chopped): Infuse freshness and a mild sharpness that cuts through the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers gentle warmth and depth of flavor without overwhelming.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making sure every note shines.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle spice for balance.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Keeps your muffin tin clean and ensures easy removal of the potato cups.
How to Make Potato Cups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and help achieve those lovely crispy edges.
Step 2: Shred and Drain the Potatoes
Peel the russet potatoes and shred them finely using a box grater or food processor. Once shredded, place the potatoes into a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to avoid soggy pockets and to help the potato cups crisp up to perfection in the oven.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
Transfer the dried shredded potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded cheddar, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, melted butter, finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined and evenly distributed.
Step 4: Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the potato mixture evenly into each cup of your prepared muffin tin. Press down gently to pack the mixture firmly so the potato cups hold their shape during baking. This step ensures each cup is dense and rich with cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Bake the potato cups for 25 to 30 minutes or until the tops develop a beautiful golden brown hue and the edges turn crispy. This gives you the perfect contrast between crunchy exterior and creamy interior.
Step 6: Cool and Remove
Allow the potato cups to cool for about 5 minutes in the tin before carefully removing them. This resting time lets everything set up so your cups don’t fall apart when you take them out.
How to Serve Potato Cups Recipe
Garnishes
Potato cups are a versatile dish that welcomes all sorts of fun garnishes. A sprinkle of extra chopped green onions or some crispy bacon bits add wonderful texture and flavor bursts. Sour cream dollops or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce are fantastic for adding creaminess or a kick of spice.
Side Dishes
These potato cups pair wonderfully alongside fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or even a hearty bowl of chili. They also complement brunch dishes like scrambled eggs or smoked salmon, making your spread inviting and delicious.
Creative Ways to Present
Pop these potato cups onto a festive platter topped with colorful herbs or edible flowers to impress guests. You can also serve them in mini muffin tins right at the table for a fun, interactive way to enjoy them. For parties, consider offering a build-your-own toppings bar with various cheeses, dips, and fresh veggies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover potato cups, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days and retain much of their texture and flavor with proper storage.
Freezing
Potato cups freeze beautifully, making them a wonderful make-ahead option. After baking and cooling, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the frozen or refrigerated potato cups into a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. An air fryer also works amazingly for reheating, helping to restore that original crunchiness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this Potato Cups Recipe?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are ideal for their starchiness and crisping ability, Yukon Gold potatoes also work well, lending a creamier texture and slightly buttery flavor.
Is it possible to make this Potato Cups Recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the cheddar, Parmesan, and sour cream with plant-based alternatives. Just be sure to choose options that melt well and provide similar textures for the best results.
Can I add meat or veggies to the potato cups?
Definitely! Mix in some chopped cooked bacon, diced ham, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to customize your potato cups and make them heartier.
How do I prevent the potato cups from sticking to the muffin tin?
Using a good quality nonstick cooking spray and ensuring your muffin tin is well-greased is key. Also, letting the cups cool for a few minutes before removing helps them release more easily.
What’s the best side dish to serve with these potato cups?
They are great alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a protein like grilled chicken or steak. For brunch, try serving them with scrambled eggs or smoked salmon for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Potato Cups Recipe is such a joy to make and even more fun to eat. Their crispy, cheesy, and flavorful nature makes them an instant crowd-pleaser, whether you serve them as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer. I can’t wait for you to try making them yourself and discover just how versatile and delicious these little bites are. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Potato Cups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 potato cups
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These crispy and cheesy Potato Cups are a perfect side dish or snack, featuring grated russet potatoes combined with cheddar, Parmesan, sour cream, and green onions. Baked to golden perfection in a muffin tin, they offer a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Grate and Drain Potatoes: Using a box grater or food processor, grate the peeled russet potatoes. Place the grated potatoes into a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible to ensure crispiness.
- Mix Ingredients: Transfer the dried shredded potatoes to a large bowl. Add shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, sour cream, melted butter, finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the potato mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin cups. Press down slightly in each cup to pack the mixture firmly for better shape and texture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges are crispy. This baking time ensures the cups are cooked through and deliciously crunchy.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the potato cups cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully remove them from the muffin tin and serve warm as a tasty side dish or snack.
Notes
- For a heartier version, add chopped cooked bacon or diced ham to the potato mixture.
- These potato cups freeze well. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
- Yukon Gold potatoes can be used instead of russet potatoes for a slightly different texture and flavor.
