Preheat your oven to 425ºF. This high temperature is essential for getting those deliciously crispy tops on your Cheesy Potato Cups.
Butter a 12-cup muffin tin generously. Next, dust each cup with panko bread crumbs to create a crunchy crust. This step is crucial, as it prevents sticking and adds texture!
Prepare your russet potatoes by cutting them in half lengthwise. Then, slice each half into three spears and cut those into ¼ inch slices. The size is perfect for even cooking and fluffy filling.
Transfer the sliced potatoes into a large microwave-safe bowl. Add half and half, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine, ensuring each slice is coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap to trap in the steam during microwaving.
Microwave the potatoes for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring once halfway through. You want them to be tender enough to mash easily. Keep an eye on them!
While the potatoes are microwaving, grab a bowl and toss together the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cornstarch. This will give your filling an extra creamy texture.
Once the potatoes are tender, carefully mix in the cheesy blend, saving about ⅓ cup of the cheese for topping. Stir well until everything is nicely incorporated.
Now it’s time to fill those muffin cups! Divide the potato mixture evenly among the cups, smoothing the tops to ensure even baking.
Sprinkle the reserved cheese mixture over the tops of each cup. This will create that beautiful cheesy crust once baked.
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake covered for 10 minutes. After that, remove the cover and continue baking for an additional 13 to 15 minutes until the tops are lightly browned. Keep an eye on them!
When they're done, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the cups cool on a cooling rack for about five minutes. Use a knife to run around the perimeter of each cup to help them release easily.
Invert the muffin tin onto a baking sheet, gently tapping if necessary to release the cups. Let them cool for another five minutes before serving. These Cheesy Potato Cups are best enjoyed warm!
