Spuds Elegant
Savory mashed potato boats loaded with creamy cheese, egg, onion, and pimiento, finished with a smoky paprika crust—comforting, crowd‑pleasing side perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the cream cheese and beaten egg into the hot mashed potatoes until smooth.
- Stir in the finely chopped onion, chopped pimiento, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake uncovered at 350°F for 45 minutes or until golden.
- Dust the top with paprika before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use freshly made mashed potatoes rather than instant. If you're short on cream cheese, you can substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt. To add extra flavor, consider incorporating garlic powder or fresh herbs like chives. Be cautious with the seasoning; adjust salt and pepper to your taste, especially if serving with salty sides like Broccoli-Cheese Bites.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spuds Elegant as a side dish to your favorite protein, like roasted chicken or grilled fish. This dish pairs beautifully with Baby Stuffed Potatoes for a comforting meal. For a complete vegetarian experience, complement it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can enhance its presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in an oven preheated to 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spuds Elegant contains roughly 262 calories, with 6g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 584mg per serving (25% 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 this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with low-fat cream cheese, sour cream, or even cottage cheese blended until smooth. Each alternative will give a slightly different flavor and texture, but they'll all work well in this recipe.
Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked mixture for up to 2 months. Just ensure it's in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. Note that the texture may be slightly altered after freezing.
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).