Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

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

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 71 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 - 16 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Incorporate Cheese: Mix the shredded cheddar cheese thoroughly into the warm beef mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Set the filling aside.
  5. 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.
  6. Coat for Frying: Dip each potato cup into the breadcrumbs to coat the outside evenly, creating a crust that will crisp when fried.
  7. 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.
  8. Fill Potato Cups: Spoon the prepared BBQ beef and cheese filling into each crispy mashed potato cup.
  9. 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.