Crispy on the outside, creamy inside, and loaded with savory beef and melty cheese—these potato nests are a showstopper for family dinners or special occasions!
Servings & Timing
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings (1–2 nests per serving depending on size)
Dietary Tags: Family-Friendly, Comfort Food
📝 Ingredients
For the Potato Nests:
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Potatoes (enough for about 4 cups mashed)
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Butter (melted)
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Salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, oregano (to taste)
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Fresh dill (for garnish)
For the Filling:
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Ground beef
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Onion (finely chopped)
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Garlic (minced)
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Red bell pepper (diced)
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Tomato (diced)
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Tomato paste
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Fresh parsley (chopped)
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Salt and black pepper
For Topping:
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Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
🔪 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
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Peel and boil potatoes until tender (about 20–25 minutes).
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Mash thoroughly with 2.5 tbsp butter, salt, paprika, black pepper, and oregano.
Step 2: Shape the Potato Nests
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Grease a muffin tin or line with parchment paper.
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Divide mashed potatoes into 6–8 portions. Press into muffin wells, forming nests.
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Brush tops lightly with remaining butter.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
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Brown ground beef in a skillet.
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Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until soft (3–4 minutes).
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Stir in tomato, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
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Remove from heat and stir in parsley.
Step 4: Assemble the Nests
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Spoon beef filling into potato nests.
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Top generously with mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake
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Bake for 15–20 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden.
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For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
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Cool slightly. Garnish with fresh dill and parsley. Serve warm!
💡 Notes & Tips
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Veggie boost: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the filling.
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Make ahead: Assemble nests up to 1 day in advance.
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Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze unbaked nests for later.
📸 Step-by-Step Guide
(Suggested photo ideas: mashed potatoes mixed → nests shaped → beef filling prepared → nests filled and topped → baked nests golden and bubbly)
Pro Tip: Keep a close eye when broiling to avoid burning the cheese!
🥄 Ingredient Insights & Swaps
Why these ingredients?
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Mashed potatoes: Form the crispy, creamy base.
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Ground beef filling: Adds savory richness.
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Mozzarella cheese: Brings melty, gooey topping.
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Herbs and seasoning: Balance and enhance flavor.
Substitutions:
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Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
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Swap mozzarella for reduced-fat cheese to lower W-W points.
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For dairy-free: Omit cheese or use plant-based cheese.
🎨 Flavor Variations & Serving Ideas
Flavor Add-Ins:
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Add a dash of cumin or smoked paprika to the beef filling.
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Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top with the mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions:
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Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
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Great as a main dish or hearty side for gatherings.
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead
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Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: Freeze unbaked nests for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time.
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Reheating: Warm in the oven to maintain crispiness.
🔎 Nutrition & W-W Points (per serving estimate)
Calories: ~320 kcal | Protein: ~18g | Carbs: ~30g | Fat: ~15g
W-W Points (per serving, based on 6 servings):
➡️ 8 Points (using regular ground beef, butter, and mozzarella)
➡️ 6 Points if using 93% lean ground beef, light butter, and reduced-fat mozzarella.
W-W Points can vary depending on exact brands and portion sizes. For accuracy, input your ingredients into the W-W app.
Allergens: Milk (cheese, butter), possibly wheat (depending on cheese or seasoning mixes used).
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes?
A: Yes, but make sure they’re thick enough to hold their shape when forming nests.
Q: Can I make these vegetarian?
A: Absolutely—replace the beef filling with a mix of sautéed veggies or lentils.
Q: Can I prepare them in advance?
A: Yes! You can assemble and refrigerate the nests for up to a day before baking.
📝 The Story Behind the Recipe
These stuffed potato nests were inspired by a love of loaded baked potatoes and shepherd’s pie. Combining mashed potatoes, a hearty beef filling, and melty cheese creates a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s both fun and filling. They’ve become a favorite at family dinners and are a hit every time!
🗨️ Let’s Chat!
Tried these potato nests? What fun fillings or cheese blends did you use? Share your version in the comments or tag me online!