Introduction
Who doesn’t love mashed potatoes? They’re creamy, soft, and the perfect comfort food. But what if we told you there’s a way to make them even better? Enter Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes—a delicious twist on the classic dish that adds an extra level of creaminess and flavor.
Cream cheese makes mashed potatoes richer, smoother, and even more delicious. They’re perfect for holiday dinners, family meals, or whenever you want something warm and comforting on your plate. Best of all? They’re super easy to make!
Ingredients – Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes
You don’t need many ingredients to make cream cheese mashed potatoes. Here’s a simple list of what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (about 1 kg) of potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- 4 ounces (half a block) of cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup of butter (unsalted is best)
- 1/2 cup of milk (you can use whole or 2%)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Garlic powder or fresh minced garlic (for extra flavor)
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley (for garnish)
- Shredded cheese (for cheesy mashed potatoes!)
Step-by-Step Process – Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Here’s a simple guide to making the best cream cheese mashed potatoes:
Step 1: Wash and Peel the Potatoes
Start by washing and peeling your potatoes. Cut them into even chunks so they cook faster and evenly.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Put the chopped potatoes into a large pot. Add enough water to cover them completely. Sprinkle in a little salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft when poked with a fork.
Step 3: Drain the Potatoes
Once they’re soft, carefully drain the hot water using a strainer or colander. Be careful not to burn yourself with the steam!
Step 4: Mash the Potatoes
Put the potatoes back in the pot or into a mixing bowl. Use a potato masher, fork, or hand mixer to mash them until smooth. If you like them with a few lumps, that’s okay too!
Step 5: Add Cream Cheese and Butter
Add the cream cheese and butter to the hot mashed potatoes. The heat will help melt them. Mix everything until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Pour in the Milk
Slowly add in the milk while stirring. Keep mixing until your potatoes reach the texture you like—soft, fluffy, and creamy!
Step 7: Season and Serve
Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix one more time and top with chives or parsley if you like. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~230 kcal |
| Total Fat | 11g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 29g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | ~350mg |
| Calcium | 60mg |
| Potassium | 620mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make cream cheese mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can make them a day ahead and reheat them in the microwave or oven. Just add a little milk when reheating to keep them creamy.
2. What kind of cream cheese should I use?
Use regular, full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture. You can also use flavored cream cheese (like garlic herb) for something different.
3. Can I use plant-based milk or butter?
Yes! If you want a dairy-free version, use almond or oat milk and a dairy-free butter. There are also vegan cream cheese options available.
4. Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skin on if you prefer a rustic style and extra nutrients.
5. How can I make the mashed potatoes more flavorful?
Try adding roasted garlic, sour cream, shredded cheddar, or even a pinch of paprika or cayenne for a little spice.
Final Thoughts
Cream cheese mashed potatoes are a simple and tasty way to make your meals feel extra special. Whether it’s a big holiday dinner or a cozy night at home, these mashed potatoes are always a hit. With their creamy texture and rich flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home.
The best part? They’re easy to make, budget-friendly, and flexible. You can stick with the basics or get creative with herbs and toppings. Either way, you’ll end up with a bowl of comfort that brings smiles to the table.
So next time you’re thinking about what side dish to make, give cream cheese mashed potatoes a try. You might never go back to plain ones again!
