These delicious mashed potato meat nests are packed with protein, flavor, and comfort! Perfect for meal prep or a hearty dinner, they combine creamy mashed potatoes with a savory, protein-rich meat filling, topped with gooey melted cheese.

🥔 Ingredients

For the Potato Base:

  • 1 kg (2.2 lbs) potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/3 cup warm milk (or more for creaminess)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (optional but highly recommended)
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1 egg (for extra binding)

For the Meat Filling:

  • 500 g (1 lb) lean ground beef or turkey (high-protein option)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes or crushed canned tomatoes
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • Optional: chili flakes for heat
  • Optional: 1/2 cup cooked lentils (to increase protein & fiber)

For Topping:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

🔥 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

  1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until soft (about 15 minutes).
  2. Drain and mash them until smooth.
  3. Add butter, warm milk, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix until creamy.
  4. Stir in chopped dill and parsley. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Filling

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
  3. Add ground meat and cook until browned.
  4. Stir in bell pepper, tomato paste, and tomatoes.
  5. Season with paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
  6. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
  7. Remove from heat and let it cool a bit.

Step 3: Assemble the Nests

  1. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. Take a handful of mashed potato and shape it into a round patty with a hollow center (like a little nest).
  3. Fill the center with 2–3 tablespoons of the meat mixture.
  4. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.

🌿 Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Garnish with fresh dill or parsley.
  • Serve hot with a side salad, steamed veggies, or yogurt sauce.

💥 Nutritional Benefits (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: ~350–400
  • Protein: ~28–35g (depending on meat choice)
  • Carbs: ~25–30g
  • Fats: ~12–15g
  • Fiber: ~3g

🍽 Pro Tips

  • Use lean beef, turkey, or chicken for higher protein and lower fat.
  • Mix in a little grated cheese into the mashed potatoes for extra richness.
  • Add finely chopped spinach or peas into the filling for extra nutrients.
  • Can be meal-prepped and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.