There is nothing quite as comforting and indulgent as the Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe. This dish transforms humble potatoes into a velvety, luscious side that is perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts. With the perfect blend of butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and a touch of cheddar on top, these mashed potatoes are baked to achieve a golden crust while staying dreamy soft inside. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple you crave time and time again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of the ingredients fool you—each one plays a vital role in creating the rich, sumptuous texture and flavor that make this recipe so special. From the choice of potatoes to the creamy dairy additions, every element contributes to the perfect bite.
- 3 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes: These varieties mash beautifully and create that signature creamy texture.
- ½ cup butter, softened: Adds richness and a smooth buttery flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings tanginess and extra creaminess to the mash.
- ½ cup whole milk: Helps loosen the potatoes just slightly to keep them soft but not runny.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Elevates the texture with its velvety, thick mouthfeel.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural potato flavor.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle depth of warmth.
- Optional ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping: Melts beautifully for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Fresh chives for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, bright pop of color and mild onion flavor.
How to Make Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously buttering a 9×13-inch baking dish. This preparation ensures that your potatoes won’t stick and creates a wonderful crust where the potatoes meet the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring to a boil and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. This step is crucial for soft, mashable potatoes that blend into a creamy texture.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot or a large bowl. Use a masher or ricer to mash the potatoes until smooth and free of lumps. Achieving this silky base is key to the Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe.
Step 4: Mix in the Creamy Ingredients
Now comes the magic: blend in the softened butter, sour cream, cream cheese, whole milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir these together gently but thoroughly until your potatoes transform into a luscious, smooth, creamy masterpiece.
Step 5: Transfer and Add Toppings
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly into the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top—this will create a beautifully browned, cheesy crown while baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the potatoes uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. This step not only heats everything through but also develops a slight golden top that adds texture contrast and extra flavor to the dish.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives to brighten the presentation and flavor. Now you’re ready to serve this incredible Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe to delighted guests or family members.
How to Serve Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chives or parsley bring a lovely pop of color and a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or beef, as well as vegetable sides like green beans, glazed carrots, or steamed broccoli. The creamy potatoes complement and balance hearty mains wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing look, bake the mashed potatoes in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic touch or swirl the top with a spoon to create peaks that brown beautifully. You can also swirl in caramelized onions or crispy bacon before baking for extra flavor surprises.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep that glorious creaminess intact.
Reheating
Reheat the potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk or cream before reheating helps maintain moisture and softness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Russet and Yukon Gold are preferred for their starchy and creamy textures, but you can experiment with red potatoes if you want a slightly chunkier mashed potato. Just keep in mind the texture may not be quite as silky.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with vegan butter, and use dairy-free sour cream and cream cheese alternatives. Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk to keep it creamy while dairy-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?
Absolutely. Prepare the mashed potatoes and place them in the baking dish covered with plastic wrap. Refrigerate, then bake fresh before serving for best results.
What if I want to make the potatoes extra fluffy?
Using a potato ricer or food mill instead of a traditional masher can help you achieve an extra light and fluffy texture for your Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe.
How do I know when the potatoes are done baking?
The top should be slightly golden and the filling hot throughout. A few minutes under the broiler (watch carefully!) can add a bit more color if desired.
Final Thoughts
This Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe is pure comfort in every spoonful. Once you master this dish, it will become your go-to for gatherings and cozy meals alike. Don’t hesitate to make it your own with different toppings or mix-ins—it’s a canvas for delicious creativity. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe for Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes offers a rich, velvety texture achieved by blending butter, sour cream, cream cheese, and milk with tender mashed potatoes. Baked until golden and optionally topped with cheddar cheese and fresh chives, this comforting side dish is perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 3 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
Creamy Ingredients
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup whole milk
Seasoning and Toppings
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
- Fresh chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring they are soft enough to mash smoothly.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or ricer to mash them until smooth and free of lumps.
- Mix in the Creamy Ingredients: Add the softened butter, sour cream, cream cheese, whole milk, salt, and black pepper to the mashed potatoes. Stir well until the mixture becomes creamy, smooth, and evenly combined.
- Transfer and Top: Spread the creamy mashed potatoes evenly into the prepared baking dish. If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top for a flavorful crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are heated through and the top is lightly golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped chives if desired. Serve warm as a delicious and comforting side dish.
Notes
- For extra cheesy flavor, add more shredded cheddar or mix different cheeses like mozzarella or Parmesan.
- Using Yukon gold potatoes will yield a creamier texture, while russets give a fluffier finish.
- Make sure not to over-boil the potatoes to prevent them from becoming waterlogged.
- Softened butter and cream cheese blend more easily for a smoother mash.
- Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color but can be omitted if unavailable.
