Patrick Oconnell
There are many types of cheese that can be added to mashed potatoes to enhance their flavor. The best cheese for mashed potatoes is subjective and depends on personal preference. Some popular options include cheddar, parmesan, cream cheese, Colby/Jack cheese, gouda, gruyere, and raclette. Adding cheese to mashed potatoes can make them creamier and more flavorful. It is important to note that the amount of cheese added should be controlled to avoid overwhelming the flavor of the potatoes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Cheddar, Gruyere, Raclette, Parmesan, Gouda, Colby/Jack, Cream Cheese, Sour Cream, Goat Cheese |
| Potato type | Russet, Golden, Red, Yukon Gold |
| Additional ingredients | Butter, Milk, Cream, Sour Cream, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper, Chives, Green Onions, Parsley |
| Preparation method | Boil potatoes, mash with butter, milk, and cheese, bake |
| Serving suggestion | BBQ pork skewers, pot roast, roasted rosemary garlic potatoes |
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What You'll Learn
Cheddar, Parmesan, and Cream Cheese
Cheddar
Cheddar mashed potatoes are a popular choice, with a tangy, sharp flavour that pairs well with other ingredients. The type of cheddar used can vary, with mild, sharp, and white cheddars all being suitable. Yellow cheddar can also be used, but it may turn the potatoes a bit yellow. Cheddar mashed potatoes are often loaded with garlic, sour cream, fresh chopped chives, and tons of shredded cheddar cheese. The chives add a fresh, oniony flavour without being too overpowering.
Parmesan
Parmesan mashed potatoes are another delicious option, with a rich and airy flavour profile. The key to making good Parmesan mashed potatoes is to use high-quality ingredients, such as unsalted butter, heavy cream, whole milk, and, of course, real Parmigiano Reggiano or good-quality "Parmesan" cheese. Avoid pre-grated Parmesan, as it doesn't melt as nicely into the potatoes. For an extra kick of flavour, add some white pepper, which will enhance the earthiness of the dish without affecting the colour.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese mashed potatoes are perfectly creamy, buttery, and full of flavour. They are easy to make and can be a great option for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The ingredient list is simple: potatoes, butter, cream cheese, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper. It is important to use whole milk to keep the potatoes rich and creamy. To make ahead and keep warm, simply add 1/4 to 1/3 cup of milk to prevent them from drying out.
Each of these cheeses offers a unique flavour and texture to mashed potatoes, so it's worth experimenting to find your favourite!
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Gruyere, Cheddar, and Gouda
When it comes to choosing the best cheese to pair with mashed potatoes, three varieties stand out: Gruyere, Cheddar, and Gouda. Each of these cheeses offers a unique flavour and texture that can enhance the humble mashed potato in its own way.
Gruyere cheese, known for its slightly sweet and nutty flavour, can add a sophisticated twist to mashed potatoes. Its creamy texture blends seamlessly into the potatoes, creating a rich and indulgent dish. Gruyere is a great choice for those who want to elevate their mashed potatoes and create a more complex flavour profile.
Cheddar cheese is a versatile and popular option for mashed potatoes. Its sharp, tangy flavour adds a bold punch to the dish. Cheddar comes in various types, from mild to sharp and white to yellow, allowing for customization based on preference. For a milder taste, mild white cheddar can be used, while sharp yellow cheddar adds a vibrant colour and more intense flavour. Cheddar mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food, often paired with ingredients like butter, sour cream, and chives to create a creamy and delicious side dish.
Gouda, particularly the smoked variety, offers a unique flavour profile to mashed potatoes. Its smoky, slightly salty taste adds depth and complexity to the dish. Smoked Gouda mashed potatoes are simple to prepare, requiring only potatoes, butter, cream, and the cheese itself. This combination creates a thick, creamy, and flavourful dish that is sure to impress.
When choosing between Gruyere, Cheddar, or Gouda for mashed potatoes, consider the desired flavour profile and texture. Each cheese provides a distinct character that can enhance the humble mashed potato in its own unique way. Whether it's the nutty elegance of Gruyere, the bold sharpness of Cheddar, or the smoky depth of Gouda, each cheese has something special to offer.
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Colby/Jack Cheese and Butter
When it comes to creating the ultimate mashed potatoes, the choice of cheese and butter can make all the difference. Colby/Jack cheese, a delicious blend of Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses, when paired with butter, transforms ordinary mashed potatoes into a rich and creamy delight. Here's why this combination is a match made in culinary heaven.
Colby/Jack Cheese: The Star Ingredient
Colby/Jack cheese, also known as Co-Jack, is a versatile and flavourful cheese that adds a unique touch to mashed potatoes. This cheese is a marriage of Colby cheese, known for its mild, buttery flavour and Monterey Jack cheese, which contributes a creamy texture and subtle tanginess. By combining these two varieties, Colby/Jack cheese strikes the perfect balance between smoothness and sharpness, making it an ideal candidate for mashed potatoes.
The Art of Shredding
To incorporate Colby/Jack cheese into your mashed potatoes seamlessly, it's best to shred the cheese block yourself using a grater. While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese from a block melts better and ensures a smoother, more cohesive mash. This extra step is well worth the effort for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Butter: The Secret to Creaminess
Butter is the unsung hero of mashed potatoes, and its role cannot be overstated. By adding butter, you introduce a rich, creamy mouthfeel and enhance the overall flavour profile. When making mashed potatoes, it's essential to start with softened butter at room temperature. Cut the butter into small cubes, allowing it to soften and blend effortlessly into the potatoes. Warming the butter before mixing it into the potatoes ensures a seamless integration, resulting in a silky-smooth texture.
The Perfect Mash: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you understand the crucial roles of Colby/Jack cheese and butter, let's delve into the process of creating the perfect mashed potatoes:
- Potato Selection: Choose potato varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold. Russet potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their fluffy texture, while Yukon Gold offers a creamy texture and buttery flavour.
- Preparation: Peel the Russet potatoes, but leave the skin on the Yukon Gold for added texture and flavour. Cut the potatoes into 2-inch cubes or slices.
- Boiling: Place the potatoes in a large pot and add enough water to cover them by at least one inch. Bring the pot to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, which typically takes 15-20 minutes.
- Draining and Mashing: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Use a potato ricer, handheld potato masher, or hand mixer to mash them to your desired consistency.
- Cheese and Butter Integration: Add softened butter, Colby/Jack cheese, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix thoroughly until well combined. For an extra creamy touch, you can also add cream cheese.
- Serving: Serve your delicious cheesy mashed potatoes in a serving dish, garnished with fresh chives. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
In conclusion, Colby/Jack cheese and butter are the dynamic duo that takes mashed potatoes to new heights. The cheese lends a balanced flavour and creaminess, while butter adds richness and a silky texture. By following the tips and step-by-step guide above, you'll be well on your way to crafting the ultimate mashed potatoes that will impress both your taste buds and your guests.
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Raclette, Gruyere, and Cheddar
When it comes to choosing a cheese to pair with mashed potatoes, three varieties stand out: Raclette, Gruyere, and Cheddar. Each of these cheeses offers a unique flavour and texture that can elevate the humble mashed potato to a whole new level.
Let's start with Raclette, a Swiss cheese that is known for its rich, creamy, and nutty flavour. When combined with mashed potatoes, Raclette adds a delightful creaminess and a subtle hint of nuttiness. To prepare Raclette potatoes, one popular method is to create hasselback potatoes by cutting slits in the potatoes and stuffing them with small pieces of Raclette cheese. Drizzling garlicky brown butter and honey over the potatoes further enhances the flavour and creates a mouthwatering side dish.
Gruyere, another Swiss cheese, is a popular choice for those who want a more subtle cheese flavour in their mashed potatoes. It has a slightly sweet and nutty taste that pairs well with the potatoes without overwhelming their natural flavour. Gruyere also melts beautifully, adding a creamy texture to the dish.
Cheddar, a classic and versatile cheese, is a favourite for many when it comes to mashed potatoes. The type of cheddar you choose can vary depending on your preference—whether it's mild, sharp, white, or yellow cheddar. Cheddar adds a delightful tanginess and creaminess to the potatoes. It pairs well with other ingredients such as butter, sour cream, and fresh chives, creating a flavourful and indulgent dish.
When preparing mashed potatoes with cheese, it's important to consider the balance of flavours. Some people prefer a subtle hint of cheese, while others enjoy a stronger presence. Additionally, the type of potato used, the cooking method, and the addition of herbs or spices can also enhance the overall flavour profile.
Whether you choose Raclette, Gruyere, or Cheddar, adding cheese to mashed potatoes creates a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a cosy night in or a holiday gathering. Each of these cheeses brings its unique characteristics, allowing you to customise your mashed potatoes to your taste preferences.
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Sour Cream, Cream Cheese, and Parmesan
Sour Cream
Sour cream is often added to mashed potatoes alongside cheddar cheese. The Pioneer Woman's recipe recommends peeling and cutting potatoes before boiling them in salted water for 20 to 25 minutes. After draining the potatoes, return them to the pot and mash them until smooth. Add sour cream, butter, and milk, and mash again. Finally, add the shredded cheddar cheese and mash until melted.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese mashed potatoes are described as "perfectly creamy, buttery, and full of cream cheese flavor with a hint of garlic." The potatoes are boiled and then mashed with cream cheese, butter, milk, and seasonings. An entire stick of butter and an 8-ounce chunk of cream cheese are recommended for a large batch of potatoes.
Parmesan
Parmesan mashed potatoes are a popular holiday side dish. The potatoes are boiled and then mixed with butter, heavy cream, whole milk, and Parmesan cheese. Chives can also be added. It's important to use freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan cheese, as pre-grated Parmesan does not melt as nicely into the potatoes.
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Frequently asked questions
The best cheeses for mashed potatoes include cheddar, parmesan, cream cheese, raclette, gouda, gruyere, and Colby/Jack cheese.
It is recommended to add cheese gradually and taste as you go to ensure the cheese does not overwhelm the flavour of the potatoes.
Cheese can be added to mashed potatoes while they are still warm after draining and returning them to the pot.
Cheesy mashed potatoes can be served as a side dish with a variety of main courses, including pot roast, pork roast, barbecued meats, and more.
Yes, cheesy mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before baking. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. However, it is recommended to serve mashed potatoes immediately, as they can become sticky and lose their creamy consistency if made too far in advance.
