Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly tasty dinner idea? Tired of the same old routine? Then look no further! These crispy, golden-brown hash brown potato cups are the perfect solution. They're surprisingly simple to make, packed with flavor, and adaptable to your favorite ingredients. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, a fun brunch, or even a satisfying appetizer, these little cups of deliciousness are sure to become a new family favorite. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and shredded
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional fillings: shredded cheese, cooked bacon bits, chopped chives, cooked sausage, sauteed mushrooms
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
The key to perfectly crispy hash browns is getting the excess moisture out of the potatoes. After shredding, place the potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crispiness.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed potatoes, chopped onion, flour, beaten egg, milk, melted butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Prepare the Cups
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
Step 4: Fill the Cups
Spoon the potato mixture into the muffin tin cups, filling each about ¾ full. This allows room for expansion during baking.
Step 5: Add Fillings (Optional)
Now’s the time to get creative! Sprinkle your favorite fillings – cheese, bacon, chives, sausage, or mushrooms – on top of the potato mixture in each cup.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the hash brown cups are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Carefully remove the hash brown cups from the muffin tin and let them cool slightly before serving. These are delicious on their own or served with your favorite dipping sauce, like sour cream or ranch dressing.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Hash Brown Potato Cups:
- Don't skip the squeezing: Removing excess moisture from the potatoes is essential for achieving crispy hash browns.
- Don't overfill the cups: Leave some space for the potatoes to expand during baking.
- Adjust baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your hash browns and adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Spicy Hash Browns: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the potato mixture.
- Cheesy Hash Browns: Use a blend of your favorite cheeses, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
- Herb-Infused Hash Browns: Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per cup, approximate):
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 8-12g
- Protein: 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: 18-22g
These hash brown potato cups are a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. They’re a delicious dish perfect for homemade cooking, and certainly rank among the best recipes for their simplicity and flavor. Enjoy experimenting with different fillings and creating your own signature variations!