Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, creamy dish of mashed potatoes, especially when baked to golden perfection. This Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe brings the classic mashed potato dish to a new level of richness, making it the perfect side dish for holidays, family gatherings, or even weeknight dinners. With a combination of russet potatoes, butter, cream cheese, and half-and-half, this recipe ensures every bite is smooth, flavorful, and indulgent. If you’re looking to wow your guests with a simple yet luxurious dish, these baked mashed potatoes are just what you need.

Why You’ll Love These Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes

This recipe is for anyone who craves rich, buttery mashed potatoes with an extra layer of depth from baking. Baked mashed potatoes not only have a smoother texture but also develop a delicate crust on top, giving you the best of both worlds. Whether you’re preparing a Thanksgiving spread or just a comforting meal, these potatoes fit in perfectly.

The ingredients are simple, but together, they create an incredibly creamy and flavorful dish. Even if you’ve never baked mashed potatoes before, this recipe is easy to follow, yielding delicious results every time.

Key Ingredients for Perfectly Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that make these mashed potatoes irresistibly creamy:

• 5 lbs russet potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes because of their high starch content, which helps create that smooth, fluffy texture.
• 8 tbsp salted butter (melted): Adds richness and helps give the potatoes a silky finish.
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened and cubed): This secret ingredient makes the mashed potatoes extra creamy and tangy.
• 1 cup half-and-half: Combines the creaminess of milk with the richness of heavy cream, making the mashed potatoes smooth without being too heavy.
• ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• Pepper: A dash of pepper brings a subtle warmth to the flavor profile.
• Optional: chives on top: For a touch of color and a hint of freshness.

this RECIPE

Tools You’ll Need for This Recipe

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary equipment ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large pot: For boiling the potatoes.
• Colander: To drain the potatoes.
• Stand mixer or hand mixer: To achieve that smooth, creamy texture.
• Large mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: To bake the mashed potatoes.
• Spatula: To spread the mashed potatoes evenly in the dish.

How to Prepare the Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes

Follow these steps to create the perfect creamy baked mashed potatoes:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are.
2. Peel and Cube the Potatoes: Begin by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into medium-sized cubes. This ensures they cook evenly.
3. Boil the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover them with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Drain and Steam the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes in a colander. Return the potatoes to the pot and place it back on the heat for about 3 minutes, allowing the excess moisture to steam out.
5. Mash the Potatoes: Transfer the potatoes to a large mixing bowl or stand mixer. Beat on low speed until they are broken up and slightly mashed.
6. Add the Creamy Ingredients: Gradually mix in the warm melted butter, cream cheese, and half-and-half. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the potatoes gummy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer to a Baking Dish: Spread the mashed potatoes into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cut the remaining butter into small cubes and sprinkle them over the top for extra richness.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45 minutes, until the potatoes are warmed through and the top is slightly golden.
9. Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chives if desired, and serve hot.

Secret Tips for Baking the Creamiest Mashed Potatoes

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened, and the half-and-half is warmed. This helps them blend smoothly into the potatoes, avoiding lumps.
• Don’t overmix: Be gentle when mashing the potatoes. Overmixing can result in a gluey texture, so mix just until the potatoes are smooth.
• Steam the potatoes: Allowing the potatoes to steam for a few minutes after draining helps them absorb the butter and cream more easily, making for a fluffier texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not salting the water: Adding salt to the water while boiling the potatoes is crucial. It’s your chance to season the potatoes from the inside out.
• Overcooking or undercooking the potatoes: Make sure the potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart. Undercooked potatoes will result in lumpy mashed potatoes, while overcooked ones can become waterlogged.
• Skipping the steam-out step: Don’t skip steaming the potatoes once they’re drained. This step ensures they aren’t too watery, which could affect the creaminess.

How to Serve and Garnish Your Creamy Baked Mashed Potatoes

For an elegant presentation, you can top the mashed potatoes with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color. You can also make decorative swirls with a spatula before baking to give the top a rustic look once it browns in the oven.

Serve these potatoes alongside roasted meats, chicken, or grilled vegetables. Their rich and creamy texture pairs perfectly with almost any main dish.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

• Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese into the mashed potato mixture before baking for an extra cheesy twist.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roast garlic cloves and mash them into the potatoes for a deeper, savory flavor.
• Herb-Infused Potatoes: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant and earthy flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Mashed Potatoes

To store any leftovers, allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, place the mashed potatoes in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the mashed potatoes and spread them into the baking dish up to 1 day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to bake them.

Can I freeze baked mashed potatoes? Yes, baked mashed potatoes freeze well. Simply let them cool, then transfer them to an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until warmed through.

What can I substitute for cream cheese? If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, you can use sour cream or even Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture with a slightly tangy flavor.

Conclusion

This Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Rich, fluffy, and baked to perfection, these mashed potatoes will become a staple in your kitchen. Try it for your next family meal or holiday gathering, and watch as everyone goes back for seconds!

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