Mediterranean Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests
These Mediterranean Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests are a creative twist on classic mashed potatoes. Creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes are baked into little “nests” and filled with savory Mediterranean-inspired fillings like sautéed spinach, roasted vegetables, or crumbled feta. They’re bite-sized, fun to serve, and perfect as a party appetizer, side dish, or even a light vegetarian main.
Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
4 medium Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
¼ cup milk or cream (or use Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg yolk
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Filling Ideas (choose one or combine):
½ cup sautéed spinach and garlic
¼ cup crumbled feta or cooked ground turkey
Diced roasted vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini)
1–2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes or olives, chopped
Instructions
Boil the potatoes:
Place cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain well.
Mash the potatoes:
Return the potatoes to the pot. Add olive oil, milk or cream (or Greek yogurt), Parmesan, egg yolk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Shape the nests:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin. Spoon the mashed potatoes into each cup, pressing gently in the center to form a small well (nest shape).
Bake the nests:
Bake for 15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and set.
Prepare the filling:
While nests bake, prepare your chosen filling (sauté spinach with garlic, roast vegetables, or simply crumble feta/ground turkey).
Stuff and finish baking:
Remove nests from oven, fill each with your prepared filling, then return to bake for another 5–7 minutes to heat through.
Serve:
Let cool slightly before removing from the muffin tin. Serve warm, garnished with extra herbs if desired.
Tips
Use starchy potatoes: Russet or Yukon Golds work best because they mash smoothly and hold their shape when baked.
Drain well: After boiling, let potatoes sit in the pot for a minute to steam off excess water. This keeps the mash fluffy instead of watery.
Don’t skip the egg yolk: It helps the nests hold together in the oven.
Make-ahead option: You can prep the mashed potato mixture and fillings a day ahead. Store separately in the fridge, then assemble and bake when ready.
Grease well: Lightly oil or butter the muffin tin so the nests release easily.
Variations
Cheesy upgrade: Mix shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or crumbled goat cheese into the mash for extra richness.
Protein boost: Try shredded chicken, ground turkey, or chickpeas for a heartier filling.
Herb lovers: Add fresh basil, parsley, or oregano to the mashed potatoes for more Mediterranean flair.
Vegan option: Use olive oil and plant-based milk in the mash, skip the egg yolk, and fill with roasted veggies or lentils.
Mini appetizer style: Use a mini muffin tin to make bite-sized nests—great for parties.
Q&A
Q: Can I freeze potato nests?
A: Yes. Bake the nests without filling, let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven and add fresh fillings.
Q: What fillings work best?
A: Soft, flavorful fillings like sautéed greens, roasted veggies, or crumbled cheese work best. Avoid anything too watery, as it may make the nests soggy.
Q: Can I make these ahead for a party?
A: Absolutely. You can bake the nests a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, then add the filling before serving.
Q: Do I need a muffin tin?
A: A muffin tin makes it easier to form and hold the shape, but you can also spoon nests directly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet for a more rustic look.
Nutrition
(per serving, based on 6 nests, without filling)
Calories: 135
Protein: 4g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 1g
Sodium: 160mg
(Nutritional values will vary depending on the filling you choose.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests are a creative way to dress up simple ingredients. Crispy on the edges, creamy inside, and customizable with a variety of fillings, they’re a versatile dish that works as a snack, side, or even a light meal. Whether you go with spinach and feta, roasted vegetables, or a protein-packed option, these potato nests will bring comfort and Mediterranean flair to the table.