Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes with crispy bacon and a hint of chives, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Place peeled and cubed potatoes in a saucepan and cover with water; bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them until smooth.
- Add sour cream, softened butter, salt, and pepper; beat until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a greased 2-1/2 quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and minced chives on top if desired.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or cream cheese to the mashed potatoes. If you want a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. For a twist, try mixing in some sautéed onions or caramelized leeks. Ensure your potatoes are not overcooked to maintain a good texture. Use a potato ricer for ultra-smooth results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheddar mashed potatoes alongside roasted meats, such as a juicy pork roast or grilled chicken. They also pair beautifully with Saucy Turnips for a comforting meal. Consider a fresh salad, like Kay Frick'S Overnight Tossed Salad, to balance the richness. These potatoes can be a delightful side for any family gathering or holiday feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheddar mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For a creamier texture, stir in a little milk or butter before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Mashed Potatoes contains roughly 856 calories, with 16g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (249% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (115% of the Daily Value), and potassium (57% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 14g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cheddar mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure they are heated through.
What type of potatoes work best for mashing?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their starchy texture, which creates a creamy consistency. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they can result in a gluey texture when mashed.
Can I freeze cheddar mashed potatoes?
Freezing is possible, but expect some texture changes upon reheating. To freeze, allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating, adding milk or cream to restore creaminess.
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).