Best Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Mashed potatoes are a beloved comfort food, but if you’re looking for the creamiest, most indulgent version, this baked mashed potatoes recipe is for you. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, a cozy family dinner, or simply craving something rich and delicious, these baked mashed potatoes will be the star of the meal. What sets this recipe apart is its smooth, velvety texture combined with a golden, buttery finish from the oven. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and learn how to achieve perfectly creamy mashed potatoes with minimal effort.

The Secret to Perfect Creamy Mashed Potatoes

What makes these mashed potatoes the best? The key lies in the ingredients and technique. Using russet potatoes, known for their starchy, fluffy texture, combined with rich butter, cream cheese, and half-and-half, creates an unparalleled creaminess. Baking the mashed potatoes adds a crispy, golden top that contrasts beautifully with the smooth interior. Plus, with simple seasoning of salt and pepper, you allow the natural flavors of the potatoes to shine through.

Ingredients for Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes

Here’s everything you need to make this indulgent dish:

• 5 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 8 tbsp salted butter, melted (plus 2 tbsp for topping)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 1 cup half-and-half, warmed (use less depending on consistency preference)
• ½ tsp salt, to taste
• Pepper, freshly ground, to taste
• Optional: Fresh chives, finely chopped for garnish

These simple ingredients come together to create a side dish that’s rich, creamy, and unforgettable.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To ensure the smoothest mashed potatoes, you’ll need the following tools:

• A large pot for boiling the potatoes
• Potato peeler
• Large mixing bowl or stand mixer
• Hand mixer (if you don’t have a stand mixer)
• 9×13 baking dish, greased for baking
• Spatula for spreading the mashed potatoes
• Knife for cutting up butter and potatoes
• Measuring cups for half-and-half and butter

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make the Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes

Now, let’s walk through the process to make these baked mashed potatoes.

1. Prepare and Boil the Potatoes
   Start by peeling the russet potatoes and cutting them into medium-sized cubes. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. Place the cubed potatoes into a large pot, covering them with water. Add a generous pinch of salt to season the water. Bring the water to a boil, cooking the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes.
2. Steam Off Excess Moisture
   Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Turn the heat to low and allow the potatoes to steam out any remaining moisture for about 3 minutes. This step is crucial to avoid watery mashed potatoes.
3. Mash the Potatoes
   Transfer the steamed potatoes to a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer. Begin mashing on low speed to break them up. If using a hand mixer, work in batches to avoid overmixing.
4. Incorporate the Butter and Cream Cheese
   Slowly pour in the melted butter, continuing to mix on low speed. Add in the cubed, softened cream cheese, and blend until the potatoes are creamy and smooth. If they seem too thick, gradually add the warm half-and-half until the mashed potatoes reach your desired consistency.
5. Season to Perfection
   Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or freshly ground pepper as needed.
6. Bake the Mashed Potatoes
   Spread the mashed potatoes evenly into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Cut the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter into small cubes and dot them over the top. Bake the mashed potatoes in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 45 minutes, or until the top turns golden and crispy.
7. Serve and Garnish
   Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. For an extra touch of color and flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped chives over the top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Baked Mashed Potatoes

• Overcooking the potatoes: Make sure to only cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender. Overcooking can result in a gummy texture.
• Skipping the steaming step: It’s important to let the potatoes dry out a bit after boiling to avoid watery mashed potatoes.
• Overmixing the potatoes: Overworking the potatoes can make them gluey. Stick to low speed while mixing and be gentle.
• Not seasoning the water: Always add salt to the boiling water to season the potatoes from the inside out.

Serving and Presentation Ideas for Baked Mashed Potatoes

To elevate your presentation, transfer the baked mashed potatoes into a beautiful, oven-safe dish before baking. Add some fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a subtle, earthy flavor. For a more indulgent touch, consider adding a few extra pats of butter right before serving to create a deliciously golden, glossy finish.

Tips for Customizing Your Baked Mashed Potatoes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add 3-4 cloves of roasted garlic to the potatoes when mashing for a rich, savory flavor.
• Cheesy Variation: Mix in shredded sharp cheddar or Parmesan for cheesy mashed potatoes.
• Herb Mashed Potatoes: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a fresh, aromatic twist.
• Bacon Twist: For an extra savory note, stir in some cooked, crumbled bacon before baking (or use turkey bacon as a lighter alternative).

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers, store the baked mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain the creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mashed potatoes up to a day in advance. After spreading them into the baking dish, cover with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the dish from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, and then bake as directed.

What’s the best type of potato to use for mashed potatoes?
Russet potatoes are ideal because of their high starch content, which creates a fluffy, smooth texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are another great option if you prefer a more buttery, creamy texture.

Can I freeze baked mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Do I have to use cream cheese?
The cream cheese adds an extra layer of richness, but you can substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Conclusion

These baked mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for special occasions or everyday dinners, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try it out at your next gathering, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family. If you enjoyed this recipe, subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering dishes and culinary tips!

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