© Original Recipe By The Cozy Crumb ©
🥔✨ Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes | The Ultimate Holiday Side Dish! ✨🥔
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for the perfect holiday side dish that combines decadence with comfort, look no further than creamy mashed potatoes. This baked potato recipe elevates traditional mashed potatoes to new heights with a velvety texture and rich flavor. Imagine a fluffy, buttery mash crowned with a lightly golden crust—guaranteed to steal the show on your festive table.
Perfectly blending silky tenderness with a crispy topping, these baked mashed potatoes are ideal for special occasions or even cozy family dinners. The secret lies in choosing premium ingredients and baking them to perfection—let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish!
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 45 minutes: Quick enough to prepare as a last-minute addition or make ahead.
- One-pan convenience: Uses a single baking dish, reducing cleanup time.
- Rich & indulgent: Creamy texture paired with a crispy topping makes every bite memorable.
- Versatile side: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or any gathering craving comfort food.
3. Ingredient Notes
To achieve the creamiest mashed potatoes, start with high-quality potatoes such as Yukon Gold or Russet. Yukon Gold potatoes have a naturally buttery flavor and smooth texture, making them perfect for mash. Russets, on the other hand, create a fluffier consistency.
Use unsalted butter and whole milk or heavy cream to impart richness—opt for organic or grass-fed versions for extra flavor. Fresh garlic adds depth, but roasting the garlic first before mixing infuses a sweet, caramelized aroma that elevates the dish.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
To craft perfectly creamy mashed potatoes, the right tools make all the difference. A compact 6-in-1 digital air fryer is great if you want to add a crispy topping quickly, while a high-quality T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures even cooking and easy clean-up during prep.
5. How to Make Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes
Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and chopping Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes into uniform chunks. Boil them in salted water until they are fork-tender—about 15-20 minutes. The moment they break apart easily indicates they’re ready. Drain thoroughly, then return the potatoes to the hot pot for a minute to steam dry excess moisture.
Mash with Rich Flavors
Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes until smooth. Incorporate softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Gradually add warm milk or heavy cream, stirring gently until you reach a velvety texture. For extra creaminess, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese if desired. The room-filling aroma of garlic and butter should waft through your kitchen at this stage.
Bake to Perfection
Spread the mashed potatoes evenly into a buttered baking dish. Top with extra pats of butter or shredded cheese for added richness. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until the top turns golden and crispy—about 20-25 minutes. The edges should bubble slightly, and the top should have a delightful crust. The aroma of toasted butter and roasted garlic will invite everyone to the table.
6. Expert Tips for Success
- Use warm liquids: Adding warm milk or cream prevents lumps and results in a smoother mash.
- Avoid overmixing: Gentle stirring keeps the potatoes fluffy and prevents a gluey texture.
- Adjust seasoning after mashing: Taste and add salt or pepper to balance flavors before baking.
- For extra flavor: Mix in roasted garlic, chives, or shredded cheese to customize.
7. Variations & Substitutions
If you’re dairy-free or vegan, substitute milk with almond or oat milk, and use olive oil or vegan butter. For a healthier twist, incorporate roasted cauliflower or sweet potatoes into the mash. Want extra crunch? Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed herbs atop before baking.
8. Storage & Reheating
Leftover mashed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through, about 20 minutes. For a crispy topping, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes—watch closely to prevent burning.
9. FAQ
Can I make baked mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mash and assemble in the baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if cold from the fridge.
How do I get a crispy topping?
Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs or shredded cheese on top before baking. Broil for the last 2-3 minutes until golden. Just keep a close eye to prevent burning!
Can I freeze baked mashed potatoes?
Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Let cooled mashed potatoes cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven until bubbly and hot.
10. Conclusion
With its irresistible blend of creamy comfort and crispy goodness, creamiest baked mashed potatoes are a must-have side for any festive feast or family gathering. Texture, flavor, and ease come together in this classic dish—perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself. Elevate your holiday menu with this foolproof, hearty recipe!
Print
Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes
A rich and creamy baked mashed potato dish that’s perfect for holidays and special occasions. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients and versatile flavors.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well.
- In a large bowl, mash potatoes until smooth. Mix in melted butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer mashed potatoes to a baking dish, top with grated cheese.
Notes
- Use russet potatoes for best fluffiness.
- Adjust cheese amount for desired cheesiness.
- Can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290 Kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
