Andy Montoya
Mashed potatoes are a popular side dish, especially during the holidays. While there are many ways to prepare them, adding cheese is a great way to make them even more delicious and indulgent. The best types of potatoes to use for mashed potatoes are russet (aka Idaho) potatoes or Yukon Golds. When it comes to cheese, you can use a variety of options such as cream cheese, Colby/Jack cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, or even leftover cheeses like wine-infused Toscano or goat's milk cheese. The key to achieving creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes is to use a potato ricer, handheld masher, or fork, and to avoid overmixing, which can make them gummy or gluey. By choosing the right potatoes and cheese and following the proper preparation techniques, you can create the ultimate cheesy mashed potatoes that are sure to impress at any gathering.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of cheese types | 3 |
| Cheese types | Cream cheese, Parmesan, White/Yellow cheddar, Colby/Jack, Wine-infused Toscano, Goat's milk cheese, Gouda, Mozzarella, Gruyere, Monterey Jack |
| Other ingredients | Butter, Sour cream, Minced garlic, Black pepper, Chives, Salt, Milk, Cream, Egg, Onion |
| Best potatoes | Russet, Yukon Gold |
| Preparation tools | Ricer, Handheld masher, Potato masher, Fork |
| Baking temperature | 350°F |
| Baking time | 40-45 minutes |
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What You'll Learn
Cream cheese, Colby/Jack cheese, and butter
Cream cheese mashed potatoes are a decadent and rich treat, perfect for holidays or special occasions. They are easy to make and can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. The process is simple: peel and cube the potatoes, boil them, and then add butter, milk, and seasonings. Finally, beat the potatoes with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy. The key ingredient is, of course, cream cheese, which gives the dish a creamy texture and tangy flavor. For an extra indulgent touch, add a whole stick of cream cheese to the potatoes.
Colby/Jack cheese is another excellent option for adding a cheesy twist to mashed potatoes. This combination is perfect for a Thanksgiving or holiday meal, providing a rich and creamy side dish with a delicious garlic flavor. The key is to shred the cheese yourself, as it will melt better than pre-shredded cheese. Follow the standard process of peeling, boiling, and mashing the potatoes, and then add the Colby/Jack cheese, butter, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together, and you're ready to serve a tasty, fluffy treat.
Butter is a classic ingredient in mashed potatoes and for good reason. It adds incredible flavor and a creamy texture. For the best results, use high-quality, grass-fed salted butter, and bring it to room temperature before mixing it with the potatoes. Russet potatoes are recommended for their fluffy and creamy texture, but other varieties can also be used. To enhance the flavor even more, cook the potatoes in chicken or vegetable broth. Add some heavy cream while mashing for an even richer dish.
Combining these three ingredients—cream cheese, Colby/Jack cheese, and butter—creates a decadent and indulgent version of mashed potatoes. The cream cheese and butter provide a rich, creamy base, while the Colby/Jack cheese adds a sharp, savory flavor. This combination is perfect for those who want a truly indulgent side dish, full of flavor and with a delightful, fluffy texture. It is a simple recipe that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
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Parmesan, white cheddar, and sour cream
Parmesan mashed potatoes are a great indulgent side dish for any weeknight meal or holiday table. The key to making the perfect, fluffy Parmesan mashed potatoes is to use a combination of heavy cream, whole milk, and Parmesan cheese. For an extra kick of flavour, you can add pressed garlic to the cream sauce. Avoid pre-grated Parmesan, as it doesn't melt as nicely into the potatoes. If you want to elevate your Parmesan mashed potatoes even further, add some butter, chives, and white pepper.
White cheddar mashed potatoes are another delicious option for a side dish, especially during Thanksgiving. They are cheesy, creamy, and perfectly light and fluffy. To make white cheddar mashed potatoes, peel and dice potatoes into 1-inch cubes, place them in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a rolling boil. Once the potatoes are fork-tender, remove them from the heat and drain off the water. Place the diced potatoes through a ricer and then place them back into the warm pot. If you don't have a ricer, you can simply mash the potatoes with a masher. Add butter, cream, and cheddar cheese, and stir to incorporate. Season with salt and pepper, and fold in chopped chives before serving. You can make these mashed potatoes ahead of time and warm them up in a non-stick pot or pan before serving.
Sour cream mashed potatoes are another popular variation, known for their tangy flavour and versatility. This dish can be made with simple ingredients such as butter, herbs, garlic, or cheese. For the best results, use starchy potatoes like Yukon gold, russet, or Idaho potatoes. It is important to use cold water when boiling the potatoes to ensure even cooking. Adding salt to the water also helps to season the potatoes as they cook. You can also add sour cream to mashed potatoes made with a hand mixer for an extra creamy texture.
Combining Parmesan, white cheddar, and sour cream in mashed potatoes can create a delicious and indulgent dish. By incorporating elements from the recipes mentioned above, you can develop your own unique and mouthwatering mashed potato creation. Play around with ingredients, quantities, and preparation methods to find what works best for your taste preferences and cooking style. Enjoy experimenting and indulging in this ultimate comfort food!
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Sharp cheddar, butter, and chives
When it comes to making mashed potatoes, there are a few key ingredients that can take this classic side dish to the next level. One of the most popular combinations is sharp cheddar, butter, and chives. This trio creates a delicious flavour profile that is both comforting and indulgent. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving the perfect sharp cheddar, butter, and chive mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
- Potatoes (russet or Yukon Gold are great options)
- Sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
- Butter (cubed and softened)
- Fresh chives (chopped)
- Milk (whole milk or buttermilk)
- Sour cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Method:
- Start by peeling and chopping your chosen potatoes into even-sized chunks. This ensures even cooking.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water by at least one inch. Bring the pot to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as you want them to hold their shape.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot or a large bowl. It is important not to rinse the potatoes, as you want to retain their starch for mashing.
- Add the cubed butter to the potatoes and let it melt. Use a masher, potato ricer, or a fork to mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a hand mixer, but be cautious not to over-mix, as this can make the potatoes gummy.
- Now, stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese. The amount of cheese can be adjusted to your preference, but a generous amount ensures a cheesy flavour in every bite.
- To enhance the creaminess of the mashed potatoes, add milk a little at a time and stir until you achieve your desired consistency. You can also add sour cream for a tangy twist. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped chives on top. The chives add a fresh, oniony flavour without being overpowering.
Serving Suggestions:
These sharp cheddar, butter, and chive mashed potatoes are best served immediately. However, if you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply place them in a 350° oven or microwave until heated through.
Feel free to customise this recipe by adding additional ingredients such as roasted garlic or herbs. Play around with different types of cheese, such as Colby/Jack or cream cheese, to find your favourite combination. Enjoy the comfort and indulgence of these sharp cheddar, butter, and chive mashed potatoes!
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Gruyere, mozzarella, Monterey Jack
Adding cheese to mashed potatoes is a great way to elevate the classic dish. Here are some ideas for cheeses to use, along with some tips on how to prepare the potatoes:
Gruyere
Gruyere is a type of Swiss cheese with a nutty flavour that can add a decadent twist to mashed potatoes. To make Gruyere mashed potatoes, start by peeling and cutting your potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot over low heat to dry. Remove from the heat, add butter, and mash the potatoes using a potato masher or ricer until fluffy. Add milk, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine. Finally, add the grated Gruyere cheese and stir until melted.
Mozzarella
Mozzarella cheese can also be used to make delicious and creamy mashed potatoes. For this recipe, it is recommended to use fresh mozzarella and grate it yourself, as it melts better and improves the taste. You can also use pre-shredded mozzarella or substitute it with another cheese like cheddar or parmesan. To prepare the potatoes, peel and boil them until tender. Drain the potatoes and place them in a mixing bowl. Add milk, butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and mash until combined. Then, add the mozzarella cheese and bacon pieces, if using, and mash gently until incorporated. Finally, stir the mixture with a spoon until everything is well combined.
Monterey Jack
Monterey Jack is another cheese that can be used to make tasty mashed potatoes. You can find instant mashed potato products that are blended with Monterey Jack cheese, or you can make your own by adding grated Monterey Jack cheese to your mashed potatoes. For a more flavourful dish, try using Monterey Pepper Jack cheese, which will add a spicy kick to your potatoes.
Tips for Making Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
When making mashed potatoes with cheese, it is important to avoid overmixing, as this can make the potatoes gummy or gluey. It is recommended to use a potato masher instead of a food processor to achieve the desired smooth and creamy consistency. If you want to add extra ingredients like cheese, sour cream, or garlic, it is best to stir them in gently by hand. You can also bake your cheesy mashed potatoes for a fluffy and crunchy texture. Simply spread the mashed potatoes into a pan and bake in the oven until golden and crunchy on top.
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Goat's milk cheese, sharp cheddar, and Toscano
Goat's milk cheese mashed potatoes are a great way to add an extra creamy, cheesy, and salty flavour to your mash. To make goat's milk cheese mashed potatoes, peel and cut the potatoes into same-size pieces and place them in a large pot full of cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and mash them by hand. Add in warm milk a little at a time, along with melted butter, goat cheese, salt, and pepper and keep mashing until smooth. Taste and season, adding more butter on top before serving. For best results, use starchier potatoes such as russet, Idaho, or Yukon gold.
Sharp cheddar mashed potatoes are a delicious upgrade to classic mashed potatoes. The creaminess and tang from sour cream and the incredible flavour of sharp cheddar cheese make them undeniably delicious. To make sharp cheddar mashed potatoes, boil Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed, in a combination of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth and water. Add in sour cream, softened butter, milk, and freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Season with salt and add freshly ground black pepper, chopped fresh chives, and extra shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Toscano mashed potatoes are made using a wine-infused Toscano cheese from Trader Joe's. To make Toscano mashed potatoes, peel and slice the potatoes in half and cover them in cold water in a large pot. After cooking the potatoes, use a ricer to make the mash incredibly smooth and silky, then add in milk, cream, butter, and shredded Toscano cheese. Whisk until the potatoes are smooth and creamy, adding more milk if needed. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
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Frequently asked questions
The best cheeses to use for mashed potatoes include cream cheese, Colby/Jack cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, white cheddar cheese, mozzarella, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, and goat's milk cheese.
Butter, sour cream, milk, garlic, chives, thyme, parsley, rosemary, and black pepper are all ingredients that pair well with cheese in mashed potatoes.
It is recommended to use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese for better melting. A potato ricer, handheld masher, or hand mixer can be used to mash the potatoes. The potatoes should be boiled until fork-tender but not falling apart.
