Description
These Deep-Fried Mashed Potato Cups are a crunchy, savory snack filled with flavorful BBQ beef and melted cheddar cheese. Made by forming mashed potatoes around a delicious BBQ beef filling, then breaded and fried until golden and crispy, this recipe is perfect for parties or a hearty appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Mashed Potato Cups
- 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)
For the BBQ Beef Filling
- 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
- Cook the BBQ Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat if needed to avoid greasiness.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant.
- Add BBQ Sauce: Stir in 1/2 cup BBQ sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the beef to absorb the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix in Cheese: Stir shredded cheddar cheese into the beef mixture for a melty, rich filling.
- Prepare Mashed Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, egg, and flour. Season with salt and pepper and mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Form Potato Cups: Roll the potato mixture into 12-15 golf-ball-sized portions. Flatten each ball into a small patty, creating a well in the center to hold the filling.
- Fill and Seal Cups: Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the BBQ beef mixture into each potato well. Carefully fold the edges of mashed potato around the filling, sealing it into a cup shape.
- Bread the Cups: Roll each filled potato cup lightly in breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
- Heat Oil: Preheat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C), ensuring there is enough oil to fully submerge the cups.
- Fry the Cups: Gently lower a few potato cups into the hot oil at a time. Fry for 3-4 minutes until the cups are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Drain Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the cups from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the deep-fried mashed potato cups warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping if desired.
Notes
- Make mashed potatoes ahead of time and chill for easier handling.
- If the potato mixture feels too soft, add a little more flour to help bind.
- Ensure oil temperature remains steady at 350°F for perfect frying.
- Drain cooked beef fat well to prevent greasy filling.
- These cups are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in an oven to retain crispness.
