Mashed Potatoes with Cheese Clara quick dinners

Mashed Potatoes with Cheese is a creamy, comforting side dish that takes classic mashed potatoes to a whole new level. Blended with buttery goodness and melted cheese, these mashed potatoes are smooth, rich, and packed with savory flavor—perfect for holidays, weeknight dinners, or anytime you crave the ultimate comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesy mashed potatoes recipe is simple, satisfying, and endlessly versatile. It combines fluffy mashed potatoes with melty cheese for a gooey, indulgent upgrade to the traditional side dish. It’s family-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and pairs well with everything from roast meats to grilled vegetables. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and customize to your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
• Butter
• Milk or heavy cream
• Cheddar cheese (or your preferred melting cheese)
• Sour cream (optional, for tang and creaminess)
• Garlic (optional, for flavor)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Chives or green onions (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Peel and cut potatoes into chunks. Place in a large pot and cover with cold water.
2. Bring to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and cook until potatoes are fork-tender (about 1520 minutes).
3. Drain well and return to the pot.
4. Add butter, milk (or cream), and mash until smooth and fluffy.
5. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
6. Add sour cream, garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well.
7. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions if desired.
8. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 68 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: About 30 minutes

Variations

• Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or pepper jack.
• Add cooked bacon bits for a loaded mashed potato twist.
• Roast garlic beforehand and mash it into the potatoes for deeper flavor.
• Substitute milk with cream cheese for ultra-rich results.
• Make it spicy with a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. You can also freeze cheesy mashed potatoes for up to 1 month; thaw and stir well when reheating.

FAQs

What kind of potatoes are best?

Russet and Yukon Gold are ideal—they’re starchy and create fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, make up to 2 days ahead and reheat gently with added milk or butter.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can use any good melting cheese like Monterey Jack or Gruyère.

Can I make it without dairy?

Yes, use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheese alternatives.

How do I keep mashed potatoes from getting gluey?

Avoid overmixing—mash just until smooth and never use a blender or food processor.

Can I bake this into a casserole?

Absolutely. Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 1520 minutes until golden.

Should I peel the potatoes?

Peeling is recommended for smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on for a rustic feel.

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

Yes, stir in the cheese and reheat. You may need to add milk or butter to refresh the texture.

What goes well with cheesy mashed potatoes?

Great with roast chicken, grilled steak, meatloaf, or sautéed greens.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely—most kids love cheesy potatoes, and it’s easy to adjust the flavor to their preferences.

Conclusion

Mashed Potatoes with Cheese is a hearty, satisfying side dish that brings extra flavor and richness to your meal. Easy to make and impossible to resist, this cheesy upgrade is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or whenever you’re in the mood for creamy comfort on a plate.

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