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Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes Recipe

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4.3 from 63 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 10 servings

Description

These make-ahead mashed potatoes are creamy, rich, and perfect for preparing in advance. Made with russet potatoes, butter, cream cheese, and warm half and half, this recipe yields smooth and flavorful mashed potatoes that can be baked to perfection with a golden brown top or simply heated through. Ideal for gatherings and holiday meals, they offer a comforting side dish that is sure to please a crowd.

Ingredients

Potatoes

  • 5 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks

Dairy & Seasoning

  • 12 tablespoons butter (1 1/2 sticks), divided
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup half and half, heated

Garnish

  • Finely diced chives, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Prepare Potatoes: Place the peeled and chunked potatoes into a large pot and fill with water until the potatoes are covered.
  2. Cook Potatoes: Bring the pot of potatoes to a boil, then reduce the heat and let them simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  3. Drain Potatoes: Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander to remove all the hot water.
  4. Return to Pot: Place the drained potatoes back into the pot to keep warm.
  5. Add Butter: Cube one stick of butter and add it to the hot potatoes to begin melting for flavor.
  6. Season and Mash: Sprinkle the kosher salt and white pepper over the potatoes. Using a hand masher, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy.
  7. Add Cream Cheese: Add the softened cream cheese to the mashed potatoes and continue mashing until fully incorporated for extra richness.
  8. Incorporate Half and Half: Gradually stir in the heated half and half, mixing thoroughly to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
  9. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the mashed potatoes into a baking dish and smooth the surface.
  10. Top with Butter: Slice the remaining 1/2 stick of butter into six slices and lay them evenly on top of the mashed potatoes to melt during baking.
  11. Bake: Cover the baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 45 minutes until heated through. For a golden brown top, leave the dish uncovered during the last 10 minutes of baking.
  12. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle with finely diced chives for a fresh, mild onion flavor and appealing appearance before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure potatoes are peeled and cut evenly for uniform cooking.
  • Use warm half and half to maintain potato temperature and smooth consistency.
  • Baking time may vary slightly based on oven; check that potatoes are heated through before serving.
  • For extra flavor, you can add roasted garlic or shredded cheese before baking.
  • These mashed potatoes can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; reheat covered in the oven prior to serving.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://kitchenloving.com/make-ahead-mashed-potatoes-recipe/