The Ultimate Creamy Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Your New Favorite Side Dish
There’s something undeniably comforting and deeply satisfying about a perfectly prepared side dish, and when it comes to classic comfort food, potatoes reign supreme. My family, much like many others, has an enduring love affair with all things potato. From the velvety smoothness of Sous Vide Mashed Potatoes, a staple at nearly every holiday gathering, to the hearty layers of our most requested Baked Potato Casserole, potatoes always make an appearance. This recipe for Cheesy Mashed Potatoes takes the best elements of both worlds, combining the rich, creamy texture of classic mashed potatoes with the irresistible decadence of melted cheese, creating a side dish that’s truly unforgettable.
These cheesy mashed potatoes are more than just a simple side; they are a celebration of flavor and texture. Each spoonful delivers a rich, creamy, and utterly decadent experience, elevated by just the right amount of melted cheese that will have everyone coming back for more. They’re incredibly easy to make, versatile enough for any meal, and perfect for holidays or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Mastering Mashed Potatoes: The Foundation of Flavor
The beauty of mashed potatoes lies in their simplicity and adaptability. While there are many ways to achieve perfectly mashed potatoes, from the speed of Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes to the convenience of Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes, my preferred method for these cheesy delights is the classic stovetop boil. Boiling allows for precise control over the texture and ensures the potatoes absorb just the right amount of moisture, creating an ideal canvas for the rich ingredients we’ll add later.
No matter your preferred method, the goal is always fork-tender potatoes that are easy to mash. This cheesy mashed potato recipe is designed for ease, offering a delicious outcome with minimal fuss. One of its greatest advantages is the ability to prepare them ahead of time. You can whip up a batch, store them in the fridge, and simply bake until hot and bubbly when you’re ready to serve, making them an ideal choice for busy holidays or any occasion requiring a make-ahead side dish.
Essential Ingredients for Irresistible Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Crafting truly extraordinary cheesy mashed potatoes starts with selecting quality ingredients that work in harmony to deliver incredible flavor and a luxurious texture. Here’s what you’ll need, and a few notes on why each element is crucial:
- Potatoes: For the best mashed potatoes, starchy varieties like Yukon Gold or Russet are ideal. Yukon Golds offer a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture, while Russets are fluffy and absorb flavor wonderfully. Ensure they are peeled for a smooth mash.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, gently smashed and boiled with the potatoes, infuse a subtle yet essential aromatic flavor throughout the dish without being overpowering.
- Butter: High-quality, softened butter is key to rich flavor and silky texture. It melts beautifully into the hot potatoes, adding a decadent touch.
- Heavy Cream: This is where the magic of “creamy” truly comes in. Heavy cream adds unparalleled richness and helps achieve that dreamy, smooth consistency. Whole milk can be substituted for a slightly lighter version, but heavy cream offers superior results.
- Sour Cream: Much like in my Loaded Twice Baked Potato Casserole, sour cream plays a vital role here. It not only adds a delightful tang that balances the richness of the cheese and cream but also contributes to a wonderfully creamy texture. It helps bind the potatoes, making them incredibly smooth and cohesive. While some recipes call for cream cheese, I find sour cream offers a lighter, fresher zest.
- Cheddar Cheese: A generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese is the star, melting into gooey pockets of savory goodness. Use a good quality sharp or medium cheddar for the best flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the other flavors. Always taste and adjust to your preference.
The combination of heavy cream and sour cream creates a luscious consistency that’s both rich and tangy, setting these cheesy mashed potatoes apart from the rest. It’s a simple blend that yields profound results.
Step-by-Step: How To Make Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Creating these rich and creamy cheesy mashed potatoes is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser:
- Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by peeling your chosen potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet are recommended) and dicing them into roughly 1-inch pieces. The key here is consistency in size, which ensures even cooking. Uniform pieces will become tender at the same rate, preventing some from being undercooked while others are overcooked.
- Boil to Perfection: Place the diced potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add the smashed garlic cloves to the pot; this will gently infuse the potatoes with a subtle garlic flavor as they cook. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. Cooking time will vary based on the size of your potato pieces – smaller pieces will cook faster.
- Mash to Your Liking: Once the potatoes are perfectly tender, drain them thoroughly in a colander. Return the hot, drained potatoes to the empty pot or a large mixing bowl. Now comes the mashing! Use a potato masher to break down the potatoes to your desired consistency. My family enjoys a slightly rustic, “lumpy” texture, which a hand masher achieves wonderfully. If you prefer your mashed potatoes incredibly smooth and creamy, a handheld electric mixer or a potato ricer can achieve a perfectly silken finish.
- Incorporate the Dairy: While the potatoes are still hot, add the softened butter, heavy cream, and sour cream to the mashed potatoes. The heat from the potatoes will help the butter melt beautifully and allow all the dairy ingredients to mix in seamlessly, creating a wonderfully rich and moist base. Stir vigorously until everything is well combined and the potatoes reach a luxurious creaminess.
- Melt in the Cheese: Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese to the warm potato mixture. Continue to stir until the cheese is completely melted and evenly distributed throughout the mashed potatoes, creating those irresistible pockets of gooey cheese. Taste the mixture and season generously with salt and black pepper. Remember, potatoes need a good amount of seasoning to truly shine.
- Serve Immediately or Prepare for Baking: Your cheesy mashed potatoes are now ready to be served! Garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness. Alternatively, if you’re making them ahead, transfer the mashed potatoes into a casserole dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. They can then be baked just before serving for a hot, bubbling side dish.
Delicious Recipe Variations to Customize Your Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes truly are a blank canvas, welcoming a myriad of flavors and additions. While this cheesy version is fantastic on its own, don’t hesitate to get creative with these delicious variations:
- For a Spicy Kick: If you love a touch of heat, finely diced fresh jalapeño is an excellent addition. Stir it in when you add the cheddar cheese for a mild, flavorful warmth that complements the richness of the potatoes and cheese beautifully. For more heat, leave some of the seeds in, or try a spicier pepper like serrano.
- Herbal Freshness: Fresh herbs can add an elegant layer of flavor. My personal favorites are rosemary and thyme, which pair wonderfully with potatoes. Finely chop them and mix them in, or simply sprinkle fresh parsley, chives, or dill on top just before serving for an aromatic garnish.
- Explore Different Cheeses: While classic cheddar is a fantastic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses or a blend! Gruyere offers a nutty, savory depth; Fontina melts incredibly smoothly and has a mild, creamy taste; and smoked Gouda provides a unique, smoky sweetness. You could also try Monterey Jack for extra mildness and meltiness, or even a touch of Parmesan for an umami kick.
- Add Savory Depth: Crispy crumbled bacon bits or caramelized onions can transform these mashed potatoes into an even more indulgent side. Stir them in at the end for added texture and flavor. Roasted garlic (whole heads roasted until soft) can be squeezed into the mash for an even deeper, sweeter garlic flavor than boiled cloves.
Can I Make Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Ahead Of Time? Absolutely!
This recipe is wonderfully forgiving and perfectly suited for make-ahead preparation, a huge advantage when planning for busy holidays or large gatherings. Preparing them in advance frees up valuable time on the day of your event, allowing you to focus on other dishes or simply enjoy your guests.
After you’ve mixed in the cheese and seasoned the potatoes, transfer them into a greased casserole dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent drying out and place it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and bake the covered potatoes for 30-40 minutes, or until they are heated through and bubbling around the edges. For an extra golden top, remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of baking, or sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over the top before baking.
You can also freeze these cheesy mashed potatoes for longer storage. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe, airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven as described above.
What Goes With Cheesy Mashed Potatoes? Endless Possibilities!
Cheesy mashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and can accompany almost any meal, transforming a simple dinner into something special. While they are a spectacular addition to any holiday menu, their comforting nature makes them equally perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Here are some pairing ideas to inspire your next dinner:
- Oven Roasted Turkey
- Prime Rib
- Baked Ham
- Salisbury Steak
- French Onion Chicken
- Grilled Steak or Pork Chops
- Any roasted chicken or fish dish
- Meatloaf or Pot Roast
Don’t forget a simple garnish like fresh chopped chives, parsley, or a sprinkle of paprika for added visual appeal and a touch of freshness.
Storage Tips for Leftover Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
It’s always a good idea to make a generous batch of these cheesy mashed potatoes, as leftovers are just as delicious, if not more so! Properly storing them ensures you can enjoy that comforting goodness for days to come.
Store any leftover cheesy mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. To reheat, you have a couple of options:
- Oven: If you have a larger quantity, transfer them to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 325ºF (160ºC) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Stir gently halfway through.
- Microwave: For individual servings, simply place them in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot. You might want to add a splash of milk or cream if they seem a little dry.
My family always insists I make extra because these creamy, cheesy potatoes are devoured for days after, making them the gift that keeps on giving!
More Great Side Dish Recipes
- Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole
- Roasted Butternut Squash
- Sausage Stuffing
- Roasted Squash and Goat Cheese Salad
- French Bread Rolls
- Air Fryer Roasted Carrots
- Scalloped Potatoes
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Erin Sellin
10 minutes
25 minutes
35 minutes
8
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Ingredients
-
3
pounds
Yukon Gold potatoes
,
,peeled and chopped -
2
cloves
garlic
,
smashed -
1
cup
heavy cream
-
1/2
cup
butter
,
softened -
1/2
cup
sour cream
-
2
cups
cheddar cheese
,
shredded -
2
teaspoon
salt
,
approximately -
1
teaspoon
black pepper
,
approximately
Instructions
-
Add the potatoes to a large pot and cover with water. Add the garlic to the pot and bring to a boil. Cook for about 20 minutes, until fork tender. The time will depend on the size of your potatoes. Smaller potatoes could cook in as fast as 15 minutes.
-
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and return to the pot or a large bowl. Use a masher to mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. If you like them super smooth and creamy, you can use a mixer if desired.
-
Once the potatoes are mashed, mix in the butter, heavy cream and sour cream.
-
Add the cheese and stir until it is melted and combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
-
You can serve immediately or place in a casserole dish, cover with foil and bake up to 24 hours later.
Notes
Nutrition
Serving:
1
g
|
Calories:
425
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
26
g
|
Protein:
10
g
|
Fat:
32
g
|
Saturated Fat:
20
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
10
g
|
Trans Fat:
1
g
|
Cholesterol:
92
mg
|
Sodium:
877
mg
|
Fiber:
3
g
|
Sugar:
2
g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Erin Sellin
10 minutes
25 minutes
35 minutes
Side Dish Recipes
American
8
425
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