Arlene'S Oven Mashed Potatoes
Creamy oven-mashed potatoes with butter, cream cheese, and a hint of paprika, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook potatoes in salted water until done.
- Drain the potatoes.
- Beat the potatoes with an electric mixer.
- Add butter, cream cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Beat well until smooth.
- Add milk slowly while mixing.
- Beat until the mixture is smooth.
- Spread the potato mixture in a greased 8 x 8-inch or 9-inch glass pan.
- Sprinkle with paprika and dot with butter.
- Cover tightly with Saran Wrap.
- May be made up to a week ahead.
- When ready to serve, bake in a 350°F oven for about 40 minutes.
- Before baking, run a fork across the top to make it look pretty.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamier mashed potatoes, consider using Yukon Gold potatoes, which have a buttery flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. You can also add garlic powder or roasted garlic for extra flavor. Mixing in some sour cream can give a tangy twist that complements the richness of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
These oven mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or a vegetarian main like Tofu Quiche. For a festive touch, serve them alongside your favorite holiday dishes. They also make a delightful accompaniment to a salad, creating a complete meal. Consider pairing them with a rich gravy for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover mashed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can add a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Arlene'S Oven Mashed Potatoes contains roughly 717 calories, with 11g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (53% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 917mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potato mixture up to a week in advance. Just store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply bake them as directed. This makes them a great option for holiday meals or gatherings.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
For the best texture, use starchy potatoes like Russets or all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Gold. Starchy potatoes create a fluffier mash, while waxy potatoes tend to result in a creamier texture. Choose according to your preference for the final dish.
Can I freeze the mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze the mashed potatoes for up to three months. Make sure to let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).