Name: Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 5 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 8 tbsp salted butter, melted (divided); 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed; 1 cup half and half (you may not need the full amount); ½ tsp salt, plus extra for seasoning; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Optional: Chopped chives for garnish; Russet potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes because of their starchy texture, which helps create a fluffy consistency.; Butter adds richness and depth of flavor.; Cream cheese makes the potatoes extra creamy and gives them a slight tang.; Half and half creates the perfect balance of creaminess without making the potatoes too heavy.

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the rich, buttery, and smooth taste of mashed potatoes. This Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe takes the classic mashed potato dish to a whole new level by baking it to golden perfection, creating a creamy, irresistible side dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re making this for a cozy family dinner or a holiday feast, these mashed potatoes will quickly become a favorite!

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

These baked mashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and can fit into almost any menu. Their creamy texture pairs beautifully with roasted meats, vegetables, or fish, making them a great side dish for anything from Thanksgiving turkey to a casual weeknight dinner. Baking the mashed potatoes allows them to develop a lovely golden crust while staying rich and smooth underneath. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time and popped in the oven when you’re ready!

Ingredients for the Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this ultra-creamy and satisfying dish:

5 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
8 tbsp salted butter, melted (divided)
8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
1 cup half and half (you may not need the full amount)
½ tsp salt, plus extra for seasoning
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: Chopped chives for garnish

Why These Ingredients Work

Russet potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes because of their starchy texture, which helps create a fluffy consistency.
Butter adds richness and depth of flavor.
Cream cheese makes the potatoes extra creamy and gives them a slight tang.
Half and half creates the perfect balance of creaminess without making the potatoes too heavy.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Follow these simple steps to make the creamiest baked mashed potatoes:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into medium-sized cubes. Rinse the potatoes well under cold water to remove excess starch, then place them in a large pot. Cover the potatoes with water, add a few pinches of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which should take about 10–15 minutes.
Drain and steam the potatoes: Once the potatoes are done, drain them well. Return the drained potatoes to the pot and set the heat to low for about 3 minutes to steam out any excess moisture. This step ensures that your potatoes won’t be watery when mashed.
Mash the potatoes: Transfer the potatoes to a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer. Using a hand mixer or the stand mixer’s paddle attachment, begin beating the potatoes on low speed until they break up. Slowly incorporate the warm, melted butter, salt, and pepper.
Add the cream cheese and half and half: Gradually mix in the cubed cream cheese, followed by the half and half. Add the half and half slowly, as you may not need the full cup. Stop once the potatoes have reached your desired level of creaminess.
Spread into baking dish: Grease a 9×13 baking dish and spread the mashed potatoes evenly into it. Cut the remaining 2 tbsp of butter into small cubes and dot them across the top of the potatoes.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crisp around the edges.
Serve: Remove from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle chopped chives on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-boiling the potatoes: If you over-boil the potatoes, they can become waterlogged, resulting in a gummy texture. Be sure to cook them just until fork-tender.
Skipping the steaming step: Draining the potatoes isn’t enough—allowing them to steam ensures they’re dry enough to hold all the creamy ingredients.
Not seasoning enough: Potatoes need a good amount of salt, especially since they’re a starch-heavy ingredient. Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go to get it just right.

Variations and Substitutions

Lighter version: If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap out the half and half for low-fat milk or almond milk. You can also reduce the amount of butter used.
Herb additions: Add extra flavor by mixing in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary with the mashed potatoes before baking.
Vegan version: Substitute the butter with vegan margarine and the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative. For the half and half, use a plant-based milk (like oat or almond milk) and make sure it’s unsweetened.

Tips for Serving and Presentation

Presentation can elevate a dish. Here are a few tips to serve these mashed potatoes beautifully:

Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley adds a vibrant color contrast.
Serve in individual ramekins: For an elegant touch, you can portion the mashed potatoes into individual ramekins before baking. This works great for formal dinners.
Top with a pat of butter: Before serving, add a small pat of butter to melt over the top for extra decadence.

Storing Leftovers and Reheating

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them and enjoy them later:

Refrigeration: Store the mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze baked mashed potatoes in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw them overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through.
Reheating: To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes. If reheating a smaller portion, use the microwave, but be sure to stir halfway through to distribute the heat evenly.

Serving Suggestions and Food Pairings

These baked mashed potatoes are a fantastic side dish for a variety of meals. They pair especially well with:

Roasted chicken or turkey: The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes complements the crispy skin of roasted poultry.
Grilled or baked fish: A light, flaky fish like cod or halibut pairs perfectly with these creamy potatoes.
Roasted vegetables: For a vegetarian meal, serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus.

Your Questions About Baked Mashed Potatoes Answered

Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the potatoes as instructed and spread them into the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, bring them to room temperature and bake as directed.

Can I freeze leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I avoid lumpy mashed potatoes?
Make sure to fully cook the potatoes until fork-tender and mash them while they’re still hot. Using a mixer or potato masher will help ensure a smooth consistency.

conclusion

These Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes are a game-changer for any meal, offering a rich, creamy, and satisfying side that’s simple to prepare. Whether you’re making them for a large gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, they are sure to impress! Be sure to try this recipe at home and let us know how it turns out in the comments. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious ideas!