Oven-Baked 3-Ingredient Buttery Potato Shell Cups

Transform simple russet potatoes into beautiful, crispy little cups with just three ingredients. Thinly sliced potatoes are coated in melted butter and a touch of salt, then layered into a muffin tin and baked until their edges turn golden and crunchy. With crisp outer layers and soft, tender centers, these potato nests make a delicious side dish for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced ⅛ inch thick
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the muffin tin.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush a standard 12-cup muffin tin generously with some of the melted butter, making sure to coat the bottoms and sides to prevent sticking.

2. Slice the potatoes.

Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into thin, even rounds, approximately ⅛ inch thick. Keeping the slices uniform helps them cook evenly and makes them easier to shape into cups.

3. Toss with butter and salt.

Place the potato slices in a large mixing bowl. Add the remaining melted butter and salt, tossing well until every slice is lightly coated.

4. Shape the potato cups.

Arrange the potato slices in each muffin cup, overlapping them slightly along the bottom and sides. Press the slices gently into place to form small nests with hollow centers.

5. Bake until golden and crisp.

Transfer the muffin tin to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. The potato edges should be deeply golden and crisp, while the centers remain tender. If needed, bake for a few extra minutes until the desired texture is reached.

6. Cool slightly and serve.

Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the potato cups rest for about 5 minutes. Carefully loosen the edges and lift each cup out of the tin. Serve warm for the best combination of crispy edges and buttery, tender layers.

These simple potato shell cups are delicious on their own or paired with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or your favorite main course. For extra flavor, garnish with fresh herbs just before serving.