Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes with a hint of green onion and paprika, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of cheddar, sour cream, and butter creates a rich flavor profile that appeals to all ages and complements a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add water to unpeeled potatoes just to cover.
- Sprinkle with salt.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 30 to 35 minutes until tender.
- Drain the potatoes.
- Peel and shred the potatoes with a grater.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded potatoes, cheddar cheese, and butter; stir until the butter is melted.
- Stir in sour cream, chopped green onion, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking pan.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F for 45 minutes.
- Sprinkle with paprika before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra creamy texture, consider using Yukon Gold potatoes instead of regular ones. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with a mix of Gruyère and Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. If you want to lighten the dish, try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Also, make sure not to over-mash the potatoes to keep them fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesy mashed potatoes pair beautifully with a hearty main like Beef-And-Tater-Tot Casserole or roasted chicken. Serve alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They also make a fantastic side for holiday gatherings, providing a comforting touch to any table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesy mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Mashed Potatoes contains roughly 711 calories, with 17g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (45% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 522mg per serving (23% 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 cheesy mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as instructed. This is perfect for busy holiday meals.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
While Cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gouda or Fontina for a richer flavor. Mixing different cheeses can also create a unique taste that complements the creamy texture.
Can I freeze cheesy mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place the cooled mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You may need to add a bit of milk or butter to restore their 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).