Cheesy Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe

If you are craving a dish that combines creamy comfort with a golden, cheesy crust, this Cheesy Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. Every forkful brings the rich, buttery flavors of mashed Yukon Gold potatoes mixed with luscious cream cheese and a delightful Italian cheese blend, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s the ultimate side dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or simply elevating your weeknight meals with a touch of indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet essential ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish that is rich in flavor, creamy in texture, and pleasing to the eye. Each element plays its part, from the buttery smooth potatoes to the melty cheese that forms a crispy top layer.

• 5 pounds yellow potatoes: Yukon Gold are ideal for their creamy texture, though russets make a great substitute.
• 2 teaspoons salt: This helps season the potatoes properly while boiling, enhancing their natural flavor.
• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter: Divided use adds richness to both the mash itself and the topping for that irresistible golden crust.
• 4 ounces cream cheese: Adds smooth creaminess and a subtle tang that makes the dish extra comforting.
• 1 cup milk: Used to loosen the mashed potatoes to a perfect, scoopable consistency.
• 2 cups Italian blend shredded cheese: This mix provides melty, gooey goodness with a blend of flavors that complement the potatoes wonderfully.
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives (optional): Adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor for a fresh finishing touch.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Boil the Potatoes

Start by washing, peeling, and cutting your potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture. Toss them into a large pot, cover with cool water, and stir in 2 teaspoons of salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a gentle boil and cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Test by piercing a cube with a fork; it should be tender but not falling apart.

Step 2: Preheat and Prep the Baking Dish

While the potatoes cook, preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with nonstick cooking spray. This step ensures your cheesy baked mashed potatoes will slide out easily after baking and the bottom won’t stick or burn.

Step 3: Mash the Potatoes with Cream Cheese and Butter

Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly in a colander and let them sit so the steam can escape—this prevents watery mash. Return the hot potatoes to the pot or a large bowl, and add 8 tablespoons of butter, the cream cheese, and milk. Mash gently with a potato masher or use a hand mixer on low—be careful not to overmix to keep the potatoes fluffy and light. Stir in the Italian blend cheese and adjust the milk to reach a smooth, creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Spread your cheesy mashed potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Slice the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter into small pats and dot them over the top of the potatoes. This butter will melt and help create that irresistible golden crust as it bakes. Place it in the oven for 45 to 55 minutes until the peaks turn beautifully golden brown and bubbling around the edges.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Allow your cheesy baked mashed potatoes to rest for about 10 minutes once out of the oven; this helps them set and makes serving easier. If you like, sprinkle the top with finely chopped fresh chives for a lovely burst of color and gentle onion flavor that balances the richness.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh chopped chives is a classic and simple way to brighten up the dish both visually and flavor-wise. For a bit more indulgence, crispy fried onions or crumbled bacon scatter beautifully on top, adding texture and a savory punch that guests will love.

Side Dishes

This Cheesy Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe pairs perfectly with a wide range of mains. Think roast chicken, baked ham, or even your favorite grilled steak. For a vegetarian meal, serve alongside sautéed greens or a hearty mushroom gravy to add a savory element.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Serve this dish in individual ramekins for personal portions with bubbly, golden tops. Alternatively, create a layered casserole with caramelized onions or roasted garlic swirled into the mash. Drizzle a little truffle oil on top just before serving for an elegant twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your cheesy baked mashed potatoes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days, maintaining their creamy texture and cheesy flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish if you want to save it for later. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep moisture in, until warmed throughout—about 20 to 30 minutes. For a quick option, microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through heating to ensure an even texture.

FAQs

Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold?

Absolutely! Russet potatoes will work well here, offering a fluffier texture, but Yukon Gold gives a creamier, buttery finish that complements the cheese beautifully. Either choice yields delicious results.

What if I don’t have Italian blend cheese?

No worries! You can substitute with a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan to mimic that melty, flavorful topping. Feel free to use what you have on hand to make this dish your own.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

With some substitutions, yes! Use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives, and swap the Italian cheese blend for plant-based shredded cheese. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be comforting and tasty.

Is it better to use a hand mixer or potato masher?

Both tools work well, but be careful with the hand mixer as over-mixing can make the potatoes gluey. A potato masher gives you more control and keeps the texture fluffy with minimal effort.

How do I get a crispy top without drying out the potatoes?

Dotting the top with small pats of butter before baking creates that golden, crispy crust while keeping the interior moist and creamy. Baking at 350°F also helps gently brown the top without drying out the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe is one of those feel-good dishes that brings so much joy to the table. It balances creamy, cheesy comfort with an irresistible baked topping, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll see why it quickly becomes a family favorite!

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