Description
These Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups are a delightful appetizer or snack featuring crispy mashed potato shells filled with a savory BBQ beef and melted cheese mixture. Perfect for parties or game day, these bite-sized treats combine creamy mashed potatoes, flavorful BBQ beef, and gooey cheese with a satisfying crunch from frying.
Ingredients
Mashed Potato Cup Ingredients
- 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 Ingredients
- 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
- Prepare the BBQ Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary to avoid greasiness.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and fragrant.
- Add BBQ Sauce: Stir in the BBQ sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the beef mixture to absorb the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
- Incorporate Cheese: Mix the shredded cheddar cheese thoroughly into the warm beef mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Set the filling aside.
- Form Potato Cups: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the all-purpose flour and the egg. Season with salt and pepper. Shape the mixture into small cups or nests, forming a hollow center for the filling.
- Coat for Frying: Dip each potato cup into the breadcrumbs to coat the outside evenly, creating a crust that will crisp when fried.
- Deep Fry Cups: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the potato cups until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Fill Potato Cups: Spoon the prepared BBQ beef and cheese filling into each crispy mashed potato cup.
- Serve Warm: Arrange the filled potato cups on a serving platter and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use mashed potatoes that have been chilled or made ahead to ensure easier shaping of the cups.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a variation in flavor.
- Make sure oil temperature is properly maintained to achieve crispy texture without absorbing excess oil.
- These cups can be kept warm in an oven at low heat (about 200°F) until ready to serve.
- Leftover filling can be used as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.