Jalapeno Popper Hash Brown Cups are a tasty treat! They mix crispy hash browns with spicy jalapenos and creamy cheese, making each bite crunchy and flavorful.
These cups are perfect for parties or a fun snack. I love how easy they are to make—just fill the cups and bake! Plus, they’re great for sharing (or not, I won’t judge!).
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Browns: Frozen shredded hash browns are super convenient for this recipe. If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh potatoes can be grated and soaked for a similar result, but frozen ones save time!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese gives a nice flavor. You can switch this with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little spice. Each brings its own character to the cups!
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds creaminess to the filling. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Jalapenos: These give the pop to the dish! If you’re sensitive to heat, use fewer jalapenos or substitute with sweet bell peppers. Roasted red peppers can also work for a different flavor.
How Do I Get the Hash Brown Cups Extra Crispy?
Getting the perfect crispiness is all about moisture control and baking time. Make sure to thoroughly drain and pat dry your hash browns before using. Excess moisture can lead to sogginess.
- First, thaw and drain your hash browns completely.
- Press them down firmly into the muffin tin to create a solid base.
- Keep an eye on them while baking—if it’s not crispy after 20 minutes, give it a few more minutes. Everyone likes a different level of crunch!
Jalapeno Popper Hash Brown Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and well drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
- 1-2 jalapenos, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or butter, for greasing muffin tin
- Optional: sour cream for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake, so you’re looking at a total of about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and fun way to enjoy a crowd-pleasing snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or a bit of butter. This will help the hash brown cups come out easily.
2. Mix the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, gather the thawed and drained hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped jalapenos, sliced green onions, egg, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined and looks yummy!
3. Form the Cups:
Take about 2-3 tablespoons of the mixture for each muffin cup. Press it firmly into the bottom and also up the sides of each muffin cup. This will help create a nice cup shape to hold your tasty filling.
4. Bake the Cups:
Put the muffin tin in the oven and let the hash brown cups bake for about 15-20 minutes. They should be nice and golden brown around the edges and crispy. Keep an eye on them as they bake—you want that perfect crunch!
5. Cool and Remove:
After they’re done baking, take the muffin tin out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes so they can set. Then, carefully remove each cup using a small spatula or spoon.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious cups warm, and if you like, add a dollop of sour cream or extra sliced jalapenos on top for some extra flavor. Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, and spicy Jalapeno Popper Hash Brown Cups as a delightful appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh potatoes, you can grate them and then soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes to release some starch. Drain and pat them dry thoroughly before mixing with the other ingredients.
How Can I Make These Cups Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply press the mixture into the muffin tin and bake as directed. They’re great fresh out of the oven, but you can also reheat leftovers!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. You can also microwave them for a quick reheat if you’re in a hurry!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want to decrease the spice, use only one jalapeno or remove the seeds and membranes where the heat is concentrated. You can also substitute with a milder pepper, like a bell pepper, for a flavorful but less spicy option.