Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Potato Nests

Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Potato Nests bring all the flavor of a loaded burger to crispy mashed potato cups. Savory beef, smoky turkey bacon and melted cheddar make these irresistible.

Crispy mashed potato nests filled with cheeseburger beef, crispy turkey bacon and melted cheddar, topped with pickles and tomatoes like a loaded burger. Finish them with all your favorite burger toppings for a fun, bun-free dinner that's always a hit with the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tastes like a loaded turkey bacon cheeseburger
• No buns needed
• Fun toppings bar
• Family-friendly favorite

Ingredients for Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Potato Nests

• 2 1/2 lbs (1.1 kg) russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 6 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded sharp cheddar
• Toppings: diced tomatoes, chopped pickles, shredded lettuce, burger sauce

Ingredient Notes

• Ground beef: 80-85% lean gives the juiciest flavor; just drain it well.
• Turkey bacon: Thick-cut turkey bacon gives the best crunch.
• Cheddar: Sharp cheddar delivers classic cheeseburger flavor.

Full measurements and printable instructions are in the recipe card below.

How to Make Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Potato Nests

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Boil the potatoes in salted water for 15-18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well and let them steam dry for 2 minutes.

Step 3

Mash the potatoes with the butter, then stir in the egg yolks, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt and pepper until smooth.

Step 4

Divide the mash into 8 mounds on the baking sheet. Use the back of a spoon to press a deep well in the center of each to form a nest with tall sides.

Step 5

Bake the empty nests for 15 minutes until they start to firm up and turn lightly golden.

Step 6

Brown the beef with the onion. Drain, then stir in ketchup, mustard and Worcestershire. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 7

Stir in half the turkey bacon.

Step 8

Fill the nests with the burger mixture and top with cheddar and the remaining turkey bacon.

Step 9

Bake 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 10

Top with tomatoes, pickles and a drizzle of burger sauce.

Tips for the Best Results

• Keep toppings fresh by adding them after baking.
• Drain the beef thoroughly.
• Pre-bake nests for crispy edges.

Variations to Try

• Add sautéed mushrooms and Swiss for a mushroom Swiss burger.
• Use BBQ sauce and onion rings for a western burger.
• Swap beef for ground turkey.

What to Serve With It

Serve with a side of coleslaw, a green salad or roasted veggies.

Storage and Reheating

Quick burger sauce: mix 1/4 cup mayo, 1 tbsp ketchup, 1 tsp mustard and 1 tbsp chopped pickles. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 8-10 minutes to keep the edges crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead?

Make nests and filling a day ahead; assemble and bake before serving.

Can I use American cheese?

Yes, it melts beautifully and tastes like a classic diner burger.

How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate up to 3 days and reheat in the oven.

Final Thoughts

Everything you love about a turkey bacon cheeseburger, in a crispy potato nest. Burger night just got better!

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