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
Scale
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.
