🥔 Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests

Comfort food meets creativity in these irresistible cheesy potato nests filled with savory ground beef!

If you love mashed potatoes, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests. This dish combines creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with a hearty ground beef filling—topped with melty mozzarella for the perfect golden finish. They’re fun to make, kid-approved, and great for dinner, parties, or even brunch!

✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Perfect balance of creamy potatoes and savory beef
Kid-friendly and fun to eat
Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for everyday
Naturally gluten-free (just check the seasonings!)
Easy to make ahead and bake fresh when ready

🛒 Ingredients

For the Mashed Potato Nests:

3–5 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
3.5 tablespoons (50 g) butter
A bunch of fresh dill, chopped finely (optional, but adds a fresh twist)
Salt, to taste
1 tsp smoked paprika (for flavor and color)
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp oregano

For the Savory Filling:

1.1 lbs (500 g) ground beef (you can also use ground chicken or turkey)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 large tomato, chopped (or ½ cup canned crushed tomatoes)
2.5 oz (70 g) tomato paste
A bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
Salt & black pepper, to taste
3.5 oz (100 g) mozzarella cheese, grated (or use a mix of cheeses)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Boil them in salted water for about 15–20 minutes until they are fork-tender.

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot while still hot. Add the butter, a pinch of salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, and oregano. Mash until creamy and lump-free. Stir in chopped dill, if using. Let the mixture cool slightly so it’s easier to shape.

Pro Tip: If your potatoes feel too soft to hold their shape, stir in 1 egg yolk to help firm them up before shaping.

2. Shape the Nests

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Take a scoop of mashed potato and form it into a ball, then gently press the center with your fingers or the back of a spoon to create a “nest” shape. Repeat until all potatoes are used, making around 8–10 nests depending on size.

Set the tray aside while you prepare the filling.

3. Make the Ground Beef Filling

In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in the diced bell pepper and chopped tomato. Let it cook for about 5 minutes until the veggies soften.

Add the tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and any extra herbs you’d like. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5–7 minutes until everything is cooked down and fragrant. Finally, stir in the chopped parsley and remove from heat.

4. Assemble and Bake

Spoon a generous amount of the meat mixture into each mashed potato nest.

Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese over the tops of each nest.

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

If you like a crispier top, turn the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes (watch carefully to prevent burning!).

🥗 Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Pair with sour cream or garlic yogurt sauce for dipping.
Great for brunch alongside eggs and fruit.

📦 Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or until heated through.
You can also freeze the unbaked nests (without cheese) for up to 1 month. Just thaw, top with cheese, and bake as usual!

📝 Final Thoughts

These Stuffed Mashed Potato Nests are a perfect example of comfort food that’s also visually impressive. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish for a family gathering or something new to add to your meal prep rotation, these nests deliver flavor, texture, and fun in every bite.