Best Creamiest Baked Mashed (Printable Version)

Buttery, creamy baked mashed potatoes with a cheesy touch for a cozy, crowd-pleasing side dish.

# Ingredients Required:

→ Potatoes

01 - 2.27 kg russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

→ Dairy

02 - 113 g salted butter, melted
03 - 28 g salted butter, cold, cubed
04 - 227 g cream cheese, softened and cubed
05 - 240 ml half and half, warm

→ Seasoning

06 - 2.5 ml salt
07 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish (optional)

08 - Chives, finely chopped

# Guide to Cooking:

01 - Preheat the oven to 175°C. Peel and cut the potatoes into medium cubes. Rinse thoroughly under cold water and drain.
02 - Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with water and add a few large pinches of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Drain thoroughly and return to the pot.
03 - Set heat to low and steam potatoes in the pot for 3 minutes to remove excess moisture.
04 - Transfer potatoes to a large bowl or stand mixer. Beat on low speed until potatoes break up. Incorporate warm melted butter, salt, and pepper. Blend in cream cheese and gradually add warm half and half until desired texture is achieved. Adjust seasoning as needed.
05 - Spread the mashed potatoes evenly into a greased 23x33 cm baking dish. Scatter cold butter cubes over the surface. Bake for 45 minutes until golden and creamy.
06 - Remove from oven and optionally garnish with chopped chives before serving.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Adjust the amount of half and half to reach your preferred consistency. Using heavy cream instead of half and half results in a richer flavor. Consider adding toppings such as bacon bits, shredded cheese, or sour cream.