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Cozy Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests

Edible little nests made from creamy mashed potatoes, cradling a savory and flavorful ground beef filling. A delightful comfort food mashup that's surprisingly easy to make.
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Equipment

  • Pot
  • Potato Masher
  • ricer optional
  • Skillet
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper

Ingredients
  

Mashed Potatoes

  • 5 large potatoes Russets or Yukon Golds work beautifully
  • 3.5 tablespoons butter or 50g
  • 1 bunch fresh dill chopped
  • to taste salt
  • to taste smoked paprika
  • to taste black pepper
  • to taste oregano

Savory Filling

  • 1.1 lbs ground beef or 500g; can also use turkey or plant-based crumbles
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 large tomato diced
  • 2.5 oz tomato paste or 70g
  • 1 bunch fresh parsley chopped
  • 3.5 oz mozzarella cheese grated, or 100g
  • tablespoon oil for sautéing

Instructions
 

  • Prep Your Potatoes: Peel and cut potatoes into roughly equal chunks. Place in a pot, cover with cold water, add salt, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
    5 large potatoes
  • Mash It Up: Drain potatoes thoroughly. Return to the warm pot (off heat) to let steam escape. Add butter, chopped dill, salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, and oregano. Mash until creamy and smooth.
    5 large potatoes
  • Start the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little oil until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
    5 large potatoes
  • Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
    5 large potatoes
  • Add the Tomato Goodness: Stir in diced tomato and tomato paste. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and tomato to soften.
    5 large potatoes
  • Season and Stir: Stir in chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    5 large potatoes
  • Preheat Your Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Shape the Nests: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spoon mashed potato mixture onto the sheet and shape into nests, creating an indentation in the center of each.
    5 large potatoes
  • Fill 'Em Up: Spoon the ground beef mixture into the center of each potato nest.
    5 large potatoes
  • Top with Cheese: Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese generously over the top of each filled nest.
    5 large potatoes
  • Bake to Perfection: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden brown, and nests are warmed through.

Notes

This recipe is wonderfully forgiving. Sweet potatoes can be used instead of regular potatoes. Cheddar, Gruyere, or Parmesan cheese can be substituted for mozzarella. Add mushrooms, carrots, or corn to the filling for a veggie boost. Red pepper flakes can be added for a spicy kick. Swap dill for chives or use a mix of fresh herbs in the mash. Don't overwork the potatoes to avoid a gummy texture. Drain potatoes well for a firm mash. Chilling the mash can make shaping easier. This dish can be made ahead and reheated. Ensure even cooking by making nests and indentations similar in size.