Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Cream cheese mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with any meal. Whether you’re serving them alongside a holiday roast or a simple weeknight dinner, these potatoes will steal the show. This recipe uses cream cheese to enhance the flavor and create an irresistibly smooth consistency. If you’re looking for mashed potatoes that are velvety, indulgent, and full of flavor, this is the recipe for you!

Why Use Cream Cheese in Mashed Potatoes?

Cream cheese is the secret ingredient that takes traditional mashed potatoes to the next level. It adds a slightly tangy, creamy richness that balances the natural starchiness of the potatoes. The smooth texture helps create a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth dish. Plus, cream cheese blends seamlessly into the potatoes, ensuring a uniform and consistent texture.

Compared to traditional mashed potatoes made with just butter and milk, the cream cheese version provides extra body and thickness without making the potatoes feel too heavy. It’s an excellent option for special occasions or when you want to elevate a simple side dish.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes

To create the perfect batch of cream cheese mashed potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2½ lbs Russet potatoes (about 5-6 potatoes)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus extra for seasoning)
• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened for easier blending)
• 1 cup whole milk
• Black pepper to taste

Why Russet Potatoes?

Russet potatoes are the ideal choice for mashed potatoes due to their high starch content. They create a fluffy and light mash when cooked. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or Yukon golds, as they can result in a denser, gluey texture.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make these mashed potatoes:

• Large pot for boiling the potatoes
• Potato masher or hand mixer
• Colander for draining the potatoes
• Glass measuring cup or microwave-safe container to heat the dairy ingredients
• Mixing bowl

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut the peeled potatoes into roughly 1-inch chunks. This ensures they cook evenly. Place the chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt to the water to help season the potatoes as they cook.

2. Boil the Potatoes

Bring the pot of potatoes to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the potatoes simmer for 20-25 minutes or until they are fork-tender. To test, insert a fork into a potato chunk—it should go in easily without resistance.

3. Warm the Dairy Ingredients

While the potatoes are simmering, combine the butter, cream cheese, and milk in a glass measuring cup or other microwave-safe container. Heat the mixture in the microwave for 45 seconds to slightly warm the ingredients. This step ensures that the dairy blends smoothly into the potatoes, preventing any cold lumps.

4. Drain and Mash the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are done cooking, drain them in a colander. Transfer the drained potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Pour in the warmed butter, cream cheese, and milk mixture.

• For smooth mashed potatoes, use a hand mixer to whip the potatoes until they are silky and free of lumps.
• If you prefer chunky mashed potatoes, use a potato masher to gently mash the potatoes, leaving some texture behind.

5. Season to Taste

After mashing, taste the potatoes and adjust the seasoning. You’ll likely need to add extra kosher salt—around 1 teaspoon—and some black pepper. You can also add more butter or milk if the potatoes seem too thick.

Tips for Smooth vs Chunky Mashed Potatoes

• For smooth potatoes: Use a hand mixer on low speed. Avoid over-mixing, which can make the potatoes gummy.
• For chunkier potatoes: Stick with a potato masher, but don’t over-mash. Leaving small chunks creates a rustic texture that some people prefer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the potatoes: Over-boiling can make the potatoes waterlogged, which results in a thin, runny mash.
2. Using cold dairy: Always warm your dairy ingredients to ensure smooth incorporation. Cold butter or cream cheese can cause lumps.
3. Over-mixing: This can lead to gluey mashed potatoes due to the release of too much starch. Mix just until the potatoes reach your desired consistency.
4. Under-seasoning: Potatoes need plenty of salt to bring out their flavor. Don’t be afraid to add more after mashing.

Presentation and Serving Ideas

To elevate the presentation of your cream cheese mashed potatoes, try garnishing them with fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill. A small pat of butter melting on top adds a lovely finishing touch. For extra richness, drizzle with a bit of melted garlic butter.

Serve these mashed potatoes alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or beef, and they’ll make the perfect side dish. For a vegetarian meal, pair them with sautéed vegetables or a hearty mushroom gravy.

Storing Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Leftover mashed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second increments, stirring between intervals to ensure even heating. You may need to add a splash of milk or butter to restore their creamy texture.

Can You Freeze Mashed Potatoes?

Yes! Mashed potatoes freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm them on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Variations and Substitutes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add roasted garlic or a sprinkle of garlic powder for a flavorful twist.
• Lighter Version: Replace the whole milk with low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk.
• Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley to give the potatoes an aromatic boost.
• Cheddar Mashed Potatoes: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese after mashing for an extra cheesy version.

Pairing Suggestions

These mashed potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of mains. They are perfect with roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or baked salmon. Serve them alongside a hearty salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal.

Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes FAQ

Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes up to 2 days in advance. Store them in the fridge and reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave with a little extra milk or butter.

How do I fix dry mashed potatoes?

If your mashed potatoes turn out too dry, simply add a little more warm milk or butter and stir until they reach the desired consistency.

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, but be mindful of the texture. Yukon Golds work well for a slightly creamier texture, but they won’t be as fluffy as Russets.

conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and sharing these delicious cream cheese mashed potatoes with your friends and family! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out. Don’t forget to share this recipe on social media and subscribe to our blog for more mouth-watering recipes.

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