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If you’re craving a comforting, crispy, and utterly satisfying treat, you are going to love this Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Filled with BBQ Beef and Cheese Recipe. Imagine golden, crunchy exteriors giving way to creamy mashed potatoes hugging a savory, tangy BBQ beef and gooey melted cheese center. This dish is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that promises to become an instant favorite at your table. Whether you’re serving it as a party appetizer or a fun family dinner, these cups will impress with every bite.

Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Filled with BBQ Beef and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To bring this Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Filled with BBQ Beef and Cheese Recipe to life, you don’t need a pantry full of fancy items—just straightforward, quality ingredients that work together in perfect harmony. Each one plays a vital role: from the mashed potatoes’ creaminess, the beef’s hearty flavor, to the richness of cheese and the crisp coating that locks it all in.

3 cups mashed potatoes: Using cooled, preferably made-ahead mashed potatoes helps the mixture firm up for shaping.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This binds the potato mixture and makes the cups sturdy for frying.
1 large egg: Acts as a natural adhesive to hold everything together without falling apart.
1/4 cup breadcrumbs: For a gloriously crispy outer coating that’s golden and irresistible.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances every ingredient’s flavor.
Vegetable oil: For frying the cups to that perfect crunchy exterior.
1 lb ground beef: The star protein that brings savory richness to the filling.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened with the beef.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses an aromatic kick to the beef mixture.
1/2 cup BBQ sauce: The smoky, tangy heart of the filling that melds beautifully with the beef.
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into every bite for that luscious, gooey finish.

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, breaking it into small crumbles. This is the base of your filling, so getting a nice, even cook on the beef ensures every bite is packed with savory goodness. Drain any excess fat to prevent greasiness.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

To that browned beef, add your finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for about three to four minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant. These small additions add amazing flavor complexity and a touch of sweetness to balance the BBQ sauce.

Step 3: Incorporate BBQ Sauce and Season

Stir in the BBQ sauce and let it cook with the beef mixture for another two minutes, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste—this step really brings forward the delicious tang and smokiness that defines this filling.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Mix

Once the beef mixture has cooked and the sauce is well absorbed, remove it from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese while still warm. This melting moment turns the filling irresistibly creamy and rich, ready to be spooned into your mashed potato cups.

Step 5: Forming the Mashed Potato Cups

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, and egg, seasoning with salt and pepper. Mix gently until a firm dough forms that you can shape. Press spoonfuls of this potato dough into oiled muffin tins to create cup shapes, making sure the sides are even for proper filling hold.

Step 6: Fill and Coat

Fill each potato cup generously with the BBQ beef and cheese mixture. Then carefully cover the filling with a thin layer of mashed potatoes to seal them. Dip each cup first into flour, then beaten egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs for that perfect crunchy shell.

Step 7: Deep Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a heavy pan to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the potato cups in batches, turning occasionally, until they are beautifully golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil—these cups are best served hot and fresh.

How to Serve Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Filled with BBQ Beef and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes add a pop of color and enhance the flavor experience. Think chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika. These simple touches personalize each cup and add exciting bursts of freshness.

Side Dishes

Serve these Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups with crisp garden salads, tangy coleslaws, or roasted vegetables. The vibrant sides balance the richness and make for a well-rounded meal that pleases every palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive party, arrange your potato cups on a platter lined with fresh lettuce leaves or colorful edible flowers. You can serve them with individual small dipping bowls of extra BBQ sauce or ranch dressing, encouraging playful, hands-on enjoyment.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Filled with BBQ Beef and Cheese Recipe should be cooled completely, then placed in an airtight container. Refrigerate them for up to three days to enjoy later without losing that fresh, hearty flavor.

Freezing

If you want to prep in advance, these cups freeze wonderfully. After shaping but before frying, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to one month for super convenient, ready-to-fry snacks anytime.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the cups in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Microwaving can make them lose their delightful crunch, so oven or air fryer reheating is preferred.

FAQs

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly here, especially if they’ve been cooled. They hold together much better for forming the cups, giving you less hassle and great flavor.

What kind of cheese works best for the filling?

Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its sharpness and melting quality, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a smoky gouda to customize the flavor to your liking.

Is it possible to bake the potato cups instead of frying?

You can bake these cups at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden and crisp. While frying yields a superior crunch, baking is a great alternative for a lighter version.

Can I make the BBQ beef filling ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the beef mixture in advance not only saves time but also lets the flavors deepen. Simply store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble your potato cups.

Are these cups suitable for a party or large gathering?

Definitely! This Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Filled with BBQ Beef and Cheese Recipe yields about 12 to 16 servings, making them perfect crowd-pleasers that are easy to serve and enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Jump in and make this Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups Filled with BBQ Beef and Cheese Recipe—it’s a true crowd-pleaser that combines comfort food with a fun, crispy twist. Whether for family dinners or special occasions, these potato cups will leave everyone coming back for more. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!

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