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
Scale
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.
