Easy Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes with butter, milk, and cream cheese, baked to perfection; a comforting side perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour melted butter and scalded milk over the peeled and boiled potatoes.
- Mash the potatoes until smooth.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix in the room temperature cream cheese until well combined.
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a baking dish and cover.
- Bake covered at 325°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For smoother mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer instead of a masher. You can substitute half-and-half for the scalded milk for a creamier texture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-made mashed potatoes from the store. Make sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper as necessary, especially if you're serving them alongside dishes like Grandma Rachel Hernandez' Fish Patties.
Serving Suggestions
These easy mashed potatoes are perfect as a side dish for any meal, especially during the holidays. They pair beautifully with roasted meats or creamy gravies. For a delightful twist, serve them alongside Auntie'S Lemon Pie for dessert. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the mashed potatoes cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk and stir to restore their creamy texture. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Mashed Potatoes contains roughly 887 calories, with 12g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (48% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. It also contributes 8g 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 these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance. Just follow the recipe until step 5, then store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, bake them as directed. This is a great time-saver for holiday meals.
What type of potatoes work best for mashed potatoes?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes due to their starchy texture, which results in a fluffy mash. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they can become gluey when mashed.
Can I add other flavors to the mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! You can incorporate roasted garlic, herbs like chives or parsley, or even cheese for extra flavor. Experiment with different ingredients to customize the dish to your taste, making it a fun addition to your meal.
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).