These crispy mashed potato nests are filled with savory ground beef, veggies, and melted mozzarella—a fun twist on classic comfort food! Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Crispy outside, creamy inside – The perfect mashed potato texture!
✔ Loaded with flavor – Spiced beef, fresh herbs, and gooey cheese.
✔ Great for entertaining – Impressive presentation, easy to make.
✔ Customizable – Swap beef for chicken, turkey, or veggies!

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Ingredients

For the Potato Nests:

• 3–5 large potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
• 3.5 tbsp (50g) butter, melted
• A bunch of fresh dill, chopped
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp dried oregano

For the Beef Filling:

• 1.1 lbs (500g) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 large tomato, diced
• 2.5 oz (70g) tomato paste
• A bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
• 3.5 oz (100g) mozzarella cheese, shredded

(Optional: Add chili flakes for heat or grated Parmesan for extra cheesiness!)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mashed Potato Nests

• Peel, chop, and boil potatoes until tender (~15 mins). Drain well.
• Mash with butter, dill, salt, paprika, pepper, and oregano until smooth.
• Grease a muffin tin and press mashed potatoes into each cup, forming nests.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 mins until edges are golden.

2. Cook the Beef Filling

• In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
• Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and tomato. Cook 5 mins until soft.
• Stir in tomato paste, parsley, salt, and pepper. Simmer 3 mins.

3. Assemble & Bake

• Fill each potato nest with beef mixture.
• Top with shredded mozzarella.
• Bake 10–15 mins until cheese melts.
• Garnish with extra fresh herbs before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

🍽 As a main dish: Serve with a side salad or roasted veggies.
🍴 Party appetizer: Make mini versions in a 24-cup mini muffin tin!
🧀 Extra cheesy: Add cheddar or feta on top.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Nests

🔹 Use a piping bag to neatly shape mashed potatoes.
🔹 Pre-bake the nests to ensure they hold their shape.
🔹 Make ahead: Prep filling & potatoes a day early—assemble before baking.
🔹 For crispier nests, brush with a little oil before baking.

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Prep Time: 25 mins | Cook Time: 35 mins | Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12 nests | Calories: ~220 per nest

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