Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins with eggs

### **Instructions:**

#### **Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a standard muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with paper muffin liners to prevent sticking. This recipe will make about 10–12 muffins, depending on the size of your muffin tin.

#### **Step 2: Prepare the Potato Mixture**
If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, ensure that they are smooth and creamy. If you’re making fresh mashed potatoes, cook your potatoes as usual, mash them with butter and milk, and let them cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the cheese is evenly distributed.

#### **Step 3: Add Eggs and Mix**
Crack the two eggs into the mashed potato mixture and stir in the milk (or cream) until everything is well combined. The eggs will help bind the mixture and give the muffins their fluffy texture. Add the baking powder and mix again to incorporate. The consistency should be thick and creamy but not too dry. If the mixture seems too thick, add a little more milk until you reach the desired consistency.

#### **Step 4: Fold in Green Onions and Breadcrumbs**
If you’re using green onions, fold them into the potato mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Then, gently stir in the breadcrumbs to help the muffins hold together and add a bit of texture. You can also use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

#### **Step 5: Spoon the Mixture into Muffin Tin**
Spoon the potato mixture evenly into the muffin tin, filling each cup to about 3/4 full. Be sure to press the mixture down gently so that it forms a compact muffin shape. The batter will puff up slightly as it bakes, so you don’t want to overfill the cups.

#### **Step 6: Add an Egg on Top (Optional)**
For an extra touch of richness and flavor, crack a small egg (or half an egg) on top of each muffin before baking. This will create a delicious “egg on top” effect and give the muffins a visually stunning look. You can also sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top for a cheesy crust.

#### **Step 7: Bake Until Golden**
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until the tops of the muffins are golden brown and the eggs are cooked to your liking. If you prefer your egg yolks runny, check them after 20 minutes. If you like a firmer yolk, bake for a few extra minutes.

#### **Step 8: Cool and Serve**
Once the muffins are golden and set, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins with Eggs can be enjoyed warm, straight from the muffin tin, or served at room temperature. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory side dish for lunch or dinner.

### **Serving Suggestions:**
These cheesy, savory muffins are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are some great serving suggestions:
– **For Breakfast:** Serve alongside fresh fruit, avocado, or crispy bacon.
– **As a Side Dish:** Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
– **For Brunch:** Serve with a simple salad, a slice of quiche, or other savory brunch items.

### **Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins:**
– **Easy to Make:** If you have leftover mashed potatoes, this recipe is a quick and creative way to use them up. Even if you’re starting from scratch, the process is straightforward.
– **Customizable:** Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses or add-ins like bacon bits, herbs, or even chopped spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
– **Perfect Texture:** The combination of mashed potatoes and eggs creates a fluffy, soft texture in the center, while the cheese adds a gooey, delicious layer of flavor. The breadcrumbs give them a nice crisp outside.
– **Great for Leftovers:** These muffins can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

### **Tips and Variations:**
– **Make It Spicy:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to give your muffins a little heat.
– **Go Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that all your ingredients are certified gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.
– **Try Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, feta, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.
– **Make Mini Muffins:** If you’re hosting a party or a gathering, you can make mini-sized muffins for bite-sized appetizers.

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These **Cheesy Mashed Potato Muffins with Eggs** are a fantastic way to transform your leftover mashed potatoes into a hearty and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you serve them as a breakfast, snack, or side dish, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!