Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes

We’ve tried what seems like every variety of mashed potatoes under the sun, be they with heavy cream, half and half, sour cream or just tons and tons of butter. But it wasn’t until recently that we realized we were missing a huge ingredient that could be a game changer in our tots: cream cheese. We’re not sure how or why it took us so long to realize that we desperately needed to incorporate this into our potato game, but once we did, we were thrilled with the results.

Now, we would definitely fall into the “cream cheese lover” bucket, if there were one, but what’s so great about this dish is that you don’t even have to love cream cheese as much as we do to love how these cream cheese mashed potatoes turned out! They’re smooth and creamy—though you can leave a couple lumps in there, if you want—and once we top it off with some butter, it tastes like heaven. Everything melts and blends together perfectly, and we’re absolutely hooked on ‘em!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys a creamy, flavorful side dish. The cream cheese adds a rich texture and a subtle tang that elevates the classic mashed potato dish. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and makes for a great addition to any meal.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Potato masher
• Colander
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup half and half
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil, add potatoes, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork tender.
2. Drain the potatoes, then return them to the stock pot.
3. Mash the potatoes lightly, then add butter, cream cheese, garlic, and onion powder. Season generously with salt and pepper.
4. Mash the potatoes until mostly smooth, then gradually add half and half until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Serve hot and enjoy.

Tips for Success

• Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature so it blends easily with the potatoes.
• Gradually add the half and half to control the creaminess of the potatoes.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for the perfect flavor.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a hint of herb flavor, consider adding chopped chives or parsley.
• If you prefer a little spice, a dash of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick.
• For a cheesy twist, mix in some shredded cheddar cheese.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact values may vary, each serving is rich in flavors and provides a comforting source of carbohydrates with a touch of protein and fats from the cream cheese and butter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes can be a great alternative for a buttery flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and tasting these Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes as much as we do. They’re a delightful twist on a classic dish that brings comfort to any meal. Give them a try and let us know how they turn out! We’d love to hear your feedback and any variations you might have added.