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This baked mashed potatoes recipe brings ultimate comfort to the dinner table with its creamy texture and subtle cheesy notes. It’s perfect when you want something rich yet familiar to accompany your main dishes on cozy nights.
I first made this after craving a twist on traditional mashed potatoes and it quickly became my go-to for holiday dinners and weeknight comfort food.
Ingredients
- Russet potatoes: peeled and cubed provide a fluffy texture that holds up well when baked. Choose firm potatoes without green spots
- Salted butter: both melted and cold ensures richness and a buttery crust on top. Fresh high-quality butter will make a difference in flavor
- Cream cheese: adds a tangy, creamy layer that transforms basic mashed potatoes into something special. Soften it beforehand for easy mixing
- Half and half: gives just the right amount of creaminess without being too heavy. If you want a richer dish, heavy cream works too
- Salt: brings out the natural flavor of potatoes. Freshly ground pepper adds a subtle bite
- Optional chives: for a fresh herb finish adding color and mild onion flavor
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready by the time your potatoes are prepared.
- Prep And Boil Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes then cut them into medium sized cubes—this helps them cook evenly. Rinse well under cold water to remove excess starch, helping keep them fluffy. Place in a large pot, cover with water and add a few generous pinches of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until tender when pierced by a fork about 10 to 15 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
- Steam To Remove Moisture:
- Return drained potatoes to the pot and turn heat to low. Let them steam for about three minutes. This step is crucial to avoid watery mashed potatoes by evaporating excess water.
- Mash And Mix:
- Transfer steamed potatoes to a bowl or stand mixer. Beat on low speed to break them up smoothly. Add the warm melted butter, salt and pepper. Then mix in softened cream cheese followed by gradually adding the warm half and half to reach desired creaminess. Taste and adjust salt as needed—remember some salt was added during boiling.
- Assemble And Bake:
- Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Spread the creamy mashed potatoes evenly. Take the cold butter, cut into small cubes and scatter on the surface to create pockets of melt and golden browning during baking.
- Bake:
- Place the dish in the oven for 45 minutes. The butter will melt and form a gorgeous crust on top. Remove once bubbling and slightly golden around the edges.
My favorite thing about this recipe is the added cream cheese—it brings a slight tang that lifts the whole dish from ordinary to memorable. One holiday season my family kept asking for seconds after I baked this and it became the star on our table.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers covered tightly in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven to regain the baked texture or in the microwave for a quicker option. Avoid overcooking or drying out by adding a splash of milk or half and half during reheating.
Ingredient Swaps
Try swapping cream cheese with sour cream for a bit more tartness. Use heavy cream instead of half and half for a richer indulgence. For a dairy free version, substitute with coconut cream and dairy free butter, though texture will vary.
Serving Ideas
Serve these baked mashed potatoes alongside roasted chicken or glazed ham. They also pair wonderfully with sautéed greens or a bright salad to balance the richness. Top with crispy bacon or shredded cheese for extra indulgence.
This baked mashed potatoes recipe is sure to become a family favorite thanks to its creamy texture and golden crust. Enjoy it warm and watch it disappear from the table.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of potatoes work best?
Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which creates a fluffy and creamy mash perfect for baking.
- → How can I make the mashed potatoes creamier?
Using cream cheese combined with half and half or substituting half and half with heavy cream enhances creaminess and richness.
- → Why add cold butter cubes before baking?
The cold butter melts slowly during baking, creating delightful pockets of buttery flavor and a luscious finish.
- → Can I add toppings to these mashed potatoes?
Yes, toppings like chives, bacon bits, shredded cheese, or sour cream complement the creamy texture and boost flavor.
- → How do I prevent the potatoes from being watery?
After boiling, steaming out excess moisture on low heat helps avoid watery mash and ensures a smooth, fluffy texture.
- → What is the best way to mash the potatoes?
Using a stand mixer or beating them gently breaks up potatoes without overworking, maintaining a light and creamy consistency.