When comfort food calls, nothing satisfies quite like a generous bowlful of the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe. Imagine the fluffiest mashed potatoes you’ve ever had, whipped up with plenty of melty cheddar and mozzarella, kissed with sour cream and real butter, and finished off with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This dish combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a silky smooth potato base—a plate-cleaner that even picky eaters beg for! Whether you’re serving a holiday crowd or just want something spectacular for your weeknight table, this Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe is sure to bring big smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed by how such simple, straightforward ingredients can yield such spectacular results! Each component in this Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe plays a vital role: from the starchy potatoes to the rich, gooey cheese, everything works together for flavor, color, and texture you just can’t beat.
- Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes (3 pounds): These varieties give you the creamiest and most flavorful base for mashing.
- Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons): Adds richness and that classic, buttery flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Whole Milk (1/2 cup or more): Ensures a smooth, luxurious texture, and you can always splash in more to reach your perfect consistency.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Offers a tangy lift and even more creaminess—don’t skip it!
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Gives a mellow, aromatic garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Is absolutely key for bringing out all that comforting potato and cheesy flavor.
- Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds the perfect amount of warmth and punch.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 1/2 cups): Brings sharp, tangy depth and that signature golden color.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1/2 cup): Lends amazing stretchy, melty texture—totally irresistible.
- Chopped Fresh Chives or Parsley (optional): Liven up the look and taste with a pop of color and freshness right before serving.
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cubing your potatoes, then get them into a large pot with enough cold water to cover them. Bring the water up to a boil over high heat, then reduce it to a gentle simmer. Let them cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart. This method ensures even cooking and prevents your mashed potatoes from getting waterlogged.
Step 2: Drain and Steam Off Excess Moisture
Once the potatoes are just right, drain them thoroughly and return them to the still-hot pot. Allowing them to steam for a minute or two helps drive off excess moisture—this is one of the secrets to achieving the dreamiest Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe every single time.
Step 3: Mash with Dairy and Seasonings
Add in the butter, whole milk, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a potato masher (or ricer if you’re fancy) and get to work, mashing everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you like your potatoes a bit looser, add a splash more milk as you mix.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
This is when the magic happens! Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese while the potatoes are still hot. Keep mixing until the cheese melts into gooey ribbons and swirls throughout each scoop. Taste your Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Spoon the creamy, cheesy mash into a serving dish. For an extra flourish, top with a handful of shredded cheese or a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley. Serve them warm and watch everyone dig in with delight!
How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
The right garnish brings color, freshness, and a little extra wow factor! A generous sprinkle of bright green chives or parsley instantly livens up this classic Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, try a dusting of smoked paprika or a drizzle of melted butter right before serving.
Side Dishes
This glorious potato dish pairs beautifully with all kinds of main courses. Try it alongside juicy roast chicken, baked ham, grilled sausages, or a hearty mushroom main for a comforting vegetarian spread. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe also shines with your favorite holiday roasts and gravy-laden dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
To make a splash at the table, serve your Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe family-style in a beautiful bowl, piping hot from the oven. Or, get a little playful and pipe individual portions into ramekins, broil with cheese on top for a golden crust, and garnish each with fresh herbs for a dinner party-worthy twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extras (lucky you!), spoon the cooled mashed potatoes into an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days, and the flavors often meld even more overnight.
Freezing
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe freezes surprisingly well! Let them cool completely, then pack into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label, date, and freeze for up to two months. Just be sure to let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your mashed potatoes gently, either in the oven (covered, at 350°F for about 20 to 25 minutes) or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if they seem too thick, and fluff them up with a fork before serving to rejuvenate their creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! While russets and Yukon Golds give you the fluffiest, creamiest results, you can use red potatoes or any other starchy variety you have on hand—the texture might change a bit, but the Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe will still be delicious.
What’s the best way to get lump-free mashed potatoes?
For ultra-smooth potatoes, use a potato ricer or food mill after boiling. Mashing while the potatoes are still hot is key—this prevents gumminess and keeps your Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe light and airy.
Can I make Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can fully prepare the mashed potatoes, transfer them to a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through for even heating.
Is it okay to swap in different cheeses?
Feel free to get creative! Sharp cheddar is classic, but gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a hint of cream cheese can add their own unique flair to your Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe.
Why add sour cream to mashed potatoes?
Sour cream adds a tangy depth and silky texture that makes the dish even richer and more flavorful. It perfectly balances the cheeses and butter for the creamiest, dreamiest Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely magical about a big, steaming bowl of this Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe—every bite is pure comfort and joy. Give it a whirl the next time you want to wow your table with a classic side, and prepare for rave reviews all around!
Print
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of these Cheesy Mashed Potatoes, a perfect side dish for any occasion. With a delectable blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, these mashed potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Potatoes:
- 3 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
Other Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk (more as needed)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes: Place cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, bring to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to pot.
- Mash Potatoes: Add butter, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth, adding more milk if needed.
- Add Cheese: Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and combined. Adjust seasoning.
- Serve: Transfer to a dish, top with extra cheese or herbs, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can make this dish ahead and reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
- Try mixing in cream cheese or swapping cheddar for Gouda for a flavor twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mashing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
