If you are on the lookout for a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort food and finger foods into one irresistible package, let me introduce you to this Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Filled with BBQ Beef and Cheese Recipe. Imagine crispy golden cups made from creamy mashed potatoes, each one loaded with savory BBQ beef and gooey melted cheese. This recipe perfectly balances flavors and textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds. It’s a fun and hearty appetizer or snack that’s bound to become your new favorite party treat or weeknight indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these delicious mashed potato cups, you don’t need a kitchen full of exotic ingredients. The simplicity of each component means every flavor shines, resulting in a dish that tastes as heaping with love as it is with BBQ beef and cheese.
- 3 cups mashed potatoes: Using cooled, preferably ahead-of-time mashed potatoes gives you the perfect texture to mold into cups that hold their shape when fried.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This helps bind the potato mixture together, ensuring crispiness outside and tenderness inside.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural glue to keep your mashed potato cups intact.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Provides a crunchy coating that turns golden during frying, adding delightful texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- Vegetable oil: For frying the mashed potato cups to that perfect golden crisp.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein, packed with flavor and heartiness.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the BBQ beef filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A little punch of aroma and richness for the meat base.
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce: Whether store-bought or homemade, this sauce ties all the beef filling flavors together with its tangy, smoky charm.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Or your favorite melty cheese for that irresistible gooey surprise inside each cup.
How to Make Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Filled with BBQ Beef and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the BBQ Beef Filling
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and browning the ground beef. As it cooks, break the meat into tiny crumbles to ensure even cooking and an easy-to-fill consistency. Once browned, drain any excess fat so the filling isn’t greasy but stays juicy and flavorful.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic with the Beef
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook them with the beef until the onions soften and release their sweetness, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step infuses the filling with a fragrant base that pairs exquisitely with BBQ flavors.
Step 3: Mix in the BBQ Sauce and Season
Pour in the BBQ sauce and stir well, cooking everything together for an additional 2 minutes. This lets the meat absorb those tangy, smoky notes that make this filling absolutely crave-worthy. Taste, then season with salt and pepper if needed. Remove the skillet from heat and give the filling a moment to cool down.
Step 4: Fold in the Cheese
Finally, stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the warm beef mixture so it starts to melt slightly and bind everything. This cheesy, saucy beef filling will be the heart of your mashed potato cups, bursting with every bite.
Step 5: Form the Potato Cups
In a large bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes, flour, and egg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to create a pliable dough. Using your hands or a muffin tin for shaping, form small cups with an indentation in the center for filling. Coat each cup lightly with breadcrumbs for that satisfying crunch after frying.
Step 6: Fill and Deep Fry
Carefully spoon the BBQ beef and cheese mixture into each mashed potato cup. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the cups in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3 to 4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil before serving.
How to Serve Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Filled with BBQ Beef and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Filled with BBQ Beef and Cheese Recipe look even more inviting, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or green onions on top. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce adds creaminess and tang that complements the smoky beef inside.
Side Dishes
Pairing these crispy, cheesy cups with a vibrant side salad packed with crunchy greens and a zesty vinaigrette can balance out their richness. For heartier meals, serve alongside coleslaw or grilled vegetables for an irresistible combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Place the potato cups on a rustic wooden board or colorful platter to highlight their golden color and inviting shape. You can also serve them in mini muffin tins for casual parties or family dinners, making them easy to grab and enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Filled with BBQ Beef and Cheese Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack or second round of deliciousness.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the cups but skip frying. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, fry directly from frozen or bake for a healthier alternative.
Reheating
Reheat the cups in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the cups soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly, especially because they are already cooled, which helps create sturdy potato cups for frying.
What cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar is a classic choice for its sharp flavor and excellent melting qualities, but feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any cheese that melts well and suits your taste.
Is it possible to bake instead of deep-fry?
Yes, you can bake the filled potato cups at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes until golden and crispy. While they might not have the same crunch as deep-fried, they remain delicious and a bit lighter.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, beans, or your favorite veggie crumbles. Just season well with BBQ sauce to keep that smoky, tangy flavor.
What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?
Store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce both work well. Choose a sauce with a flavor profile you enjoy—whether sweet, spicy, or smoky—to customize your cups perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about combining comfort food with a fun, crispy twist, and this Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Filled with BBQ Beef and Cheese Recipe hits the spot every time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, these cups deliver bold flavors and a texture feast in every bite. Give them a try and watch them disappear faster than you can say “pass me another one!”
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Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Filled with BBQ Beef and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These crispy deep-fried mashed potato cups are filled with a savory BBQ beef and melted cheese mixture, making them a perfect appetizer or snack. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes and flavorful meat filling, combining comfort food with a fun presentation.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Cups
- 3 cups mashed potatoes (preferably made ahead and cooled)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
BBQ Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling from becoming greasy.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook with the beef until the onions are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Mix in BBQ Sauce: Stir in the BBQ sauce and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes to allow the beef to absorb the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Add Cheese: Incorporate the shredded cheddar cheese into the beef mixture until evenly combined.
- Prepare Mashed Potato Cups: In a bowl, combine the cooled mashed potatoes with the flour, seasoning with salt and pepper. Add the egg and mix well until the mixture holds together.
- Form Cups: Lightly grease a muffin tin. Press a small amount of mashed potato mixture into each cup to form a hollow cup shape, making sure the walls are thick enough to hold filling without breaking.
- Fill Cups: Spoon the BBQ beef and cheese filling into each mashed potato cup.
- Seal and Coat: Cover the filling with another layer of mashed potato mixture, sealing the top. Lightly dip each cup into beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs evenly for a crispy exterior.
- Fry the Cups: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the filled cups into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Let the cups cool slightly before serving warm as an appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Make mashed potatoes ahead of time and cool completely for best results when shaping the cups.
- You can customize the filling with different types of cheese or sauces.
- Ensure the oil temperature is maintained at 350°F for even cooking and crispiness.
- Use a sturdy muffin tin and gently press the potato mixture to avoid cracks.
