Baked mashed potatoes take your classic comfort food to the next level. Creamy, fluffy, and loaded with flavor, these mashed potatoes are baked to perfection with a golden, cheesy crust that everyone will love.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Creaminess:ย This recipe uses a blend of butter, cream, and cream cheese for an irresistibly smooth texture.
- Golden Topping:ย Baking creates a golden crust that adds a delightful contrast to the creamy potatoes.
- Perfect for Gatherings:ย Make-ahead friendly, making it ideal for holidays or dinner parties.
- Customizable:ย Easy to adapt with your favorite cheeses, herbs, or additional mix-ins.
Ingredients
(Tip: Youโll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Potatoes
- Butter
- Cream cheese
- Heavy cream
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper
- Grated cheese (optional, for topping)
Directions
- Prepare the Potatoes:ย Peel and cube the potatoes. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash the Potatoes:ย Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash until smooth.
- Mix the Ingredients:ย Add butter, cream cheese, heavy cream, and garlic. Mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer to a Baking Dish:ย Spread the mashed potatoes into a greased baking dish.
- Add the Topping:ย Sprinkle grated cheese on top, if desired.
- Bake:ย Preheat the oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Servings and Timing
- Servings:ย 6-8
- Prep Time:ย 15 minutes
- Cook Time:ย 25 minutes
- Total Time:ย 40 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Delight:ย Use sharp cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyere for a cheesy twist.
- Herb-Infused:ย Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or chives for added flavor.
- Garlic Lovers:ย Roast the garlic before mashing for a sweeter, more intense flavor.
- Loaded Mashed Potatoes:ย Mix in cooked bacon, sour cream, and green onions.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage:ย Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating:ย Reheat in the oven at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess if needed.
FAQs
1. Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the mashed potatoes and refrigerate them in the baking dish. Add the topping and bake just before serving.
2. Can I freeze baked mashed potatoes?
Yes, let them cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
3. What potatoes work best for mashed potatoes?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture and starchy nature.
4. Can I skip the cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream or omit it entirely, but the cream cheese adds richness.
5. How can I prevent gluey mashed potatoes?
Avoid over-mixing the potatoes, as this releases too much starch and makes them gluey.
6. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly less rich and creamy.
7. What other toppings can I use?
Breadcrumbs, crispy fried onions, or additional herbs are great alternatives.
8. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ingredients.
9. How do I ensure a golden crust?
Use a broiler for the last few minutes of baking for an extra golden and crispy top.
10. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
You can prepare the mashed potatoes in a slow cooker on low heat and transfer them to a baking dish for finishing in the oven.
Conclusion
The best creamiest baked mashed potatoes are a deliciously comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. With their creamy texture, golden crust, and endless customization options, theyโre guaranteed to be a hit at your table. Give this recipe a try for your next gathering or family dinner!
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THE BEST CREAMIEST BAKED MASHED POTATOES
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These baked mashed potatoes are incredibly creamy, buttery, and packed with flavor. Perfect as a holiday side dish or any family gathering, they combine fluffy potatoes with rich dairy for a golden-brown, crispy topping that contrasts the silky texture underneath. Easy to make and even easier to love!
Ingredients
- 4 lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup unsalted butter, divided
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, warmed
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Grease a 9ร13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot.
- Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash the potatoes until smooth. Avoid over-mixing to prevent a gummy texture.
- Add ยพ cup of butter (melted), heavy cream, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to the prepared baking dish and spread them evenly.
- Dot the top with the remaining ยผ cup of butter and sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly across the top. If using, add cheddar cheese as an additional layer.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding roasted garlic or cream cheese.
- This dish can be made ahead of time; simply refrigerate and bake before serving.
- To make it lighter, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce butter slightly.
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