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Loaded Jalapeño Popper Mashed Potato Muffins

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These Loaded Jalapeño Popper Mashed Potato Muffins combine the creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors of jalapeño poppers with the comfort of mashed potatoes, baked into easy-to-eat muffins. Perfect for parties, game day, or using up leftover mashed potatoes, they’re a crowd-pleasing appetizer with a playful twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/2 cups mashed potatoes (about 600g, leftover or instant)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened (about 115g)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 100g, preferably extra-sharp)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 60g)
  • 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and diced
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/3 cup bread crumbs (about 30g, optional, panko or regular)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (about 28g, optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease well with nonstick spray. Lightly spray paper liners if using.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes and softened cream cheese. Beat with a hand mixer or sturdy spoon until mostly smooth and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes. If potatoes are cold, microwave for 30 seconds to soften.
  3. Fold in shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, diced jalapeños, chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until evenly distributed. The mixture should be thick but scoopable.
  4. Scoop the mixture evenly into the 12 muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Gently press and smooth the tops with the back of a spoon.
  5. In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs with melted butter (if using). Sprinkle a generous pinch over each muffin for a crispy topping (optional).
  6. Bake on the center rack for 18–22 minutes, or until muffins are golden on top and set in the center. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
  7. Carefully lift each muffin out and transfer to a cooling rack. Serve warm for the best melty-cheese experience.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping. For vegetarian, omit bacon and add sautéed bell peppers or corn. If mashed potatoes are very creamy, add extra breadcrumbs to bind. Shred your own cheese for best melt. Muffins freeze well and reheat in oven or microwave. Adjust jalapeños for desired spice level.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper, mashed potato muffins, party appetizer, game day, cheesy muffins, bacon, easy appetizer, leftover mashed potatoes, spicy muffins, finger food

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/loaded-jalape-n-o-popper-mashed-potato-muffins-recipe-easy-party-appetizer/