There’s something magical about a big bowl of Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes — so luxuriously creamy, tangy, and smooth, it’s the kind of side dish that steals the spotlight at any gathering. With a swirl of softened cream cheese and a dollop of sour cream, these potatoes are ultra-fluffy yet rich enough to stand on their own, whether you’re pulling off a holiday meal or just craving some serious comfort. If you love a mash that balances buttery decadence with a touch of tang and a cloud-like texture, this recipe is guaranteed to be your new favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe for Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes keeps things simple and classic, ensuring every ingredient has a chance to shine. Each item serves a special purpose, from building a creamy foundation to adding a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes (3 pounds, peeled and cubed): These varieties yield the fluffiest mash — Yukon Golds bring a buttery flavor, while Russets are beloved for their light texture.
- Cream Cheese (4 ounces, softened): The secret to dreamy, tangy richness that sets these mashed potatoes apart.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Lends extra creaminess and a subtle, irresistible tang.
- Whole Milk (1/2 cup, warmed): Helps everything blend beautifully for a smoother mash — warming prevents cooled-down potatoes.
- Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons): Melted into the potatoes for pure richness and that classic buttery finish.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Brings all the flavors together; taste and adjust as needed.
- Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right hint of warmth to balance out the creamy ingredients.
- Fresh Chives (2 tablespoons, chopped, optional for garnish): Sprinkle on top for color and a burst of fresh, oniony flavor that’s always a crowd pleaser.
How to Make Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by placing your peeled, cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt — this seasons the potatoes from the inside out as they cook! Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender enough to easily pierce with a fork. This step is key for potatoes that are fully cooked and mash effortlessly.
Step 2: Drain and Dry
Once your potatoes are beautifully tender, drain them well and return them to the hot pot. Let them sit for a minute or two on the warm burner (heat off) so any excess moisture can evaporate. This helps ensure your Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes are extra creamy without being watery.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
Grab your trusty potato masher or hand mixer and mash the potatoes to your desired smoothness. Whether you prefer them silky or with a little texture, this is your call! Just make sure there are no big lumps before moving on, as the creamier base helps all the other ingredients incorporate evenly.
Step 4: Add the Creamy Goodness
Drop in the softened cream cheese, sour cream, butter, and pour in the warmed whole milk. Sprinkle over the salt and black pepper. Keep mashing or mixing until the potatoes are gloriously creamy and everything has melted together into one smooth, dreamy mash. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding a pinch more salt or pepper as you like.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the finished Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes to a serving dish, then top with freshly chopped chives for a pop of green and gentle onion flavor. Serve them piping hot and watch everyone dig in — it’s always a hit!
How to Serve Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, nothing beats a sprinkle of fresh chives. The mild onion flavor is a lovely contrast to the richness, and their bright color looks beautiful against those fluffy clouds of potatoes. You can also dot the top with extra butter, or sprinkle on grated Parmesan cheese or crispy bacon bits for indulgence.
Side Dishes
These Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes have a personality big enough to shine with classics like roast chicken, turkey, or juicy pork chops. They’re perfect with savory stews, saucy meatballs, or a hearty vegetarian mushroom gravy. Pair them with roasted veggies or a crisp salad for a balanced spread your guests will rave about.
Creative Ways to Present
Try piping the mashed potatoes into individual ramekins for a more elegant dinner party presentation, or pile them into a family-style bowl and make swirls with the back of a spoon for a rustic look. For a cozy casserole spin, spread them in a baking dish, dot with extra butter or cheese, and broil just until golden. However you serve them, Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes bring warmth and comfort to any table!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ready for easy weeknight dinners or a quick lunch reheat. The texture stays creamy, and the flavor just gets better as it sits!
Freezing
To freeze leftovers, scoop the cooled mashed potatoes into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, pressing out as much air as possible. They’ll freeze beautifully for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and give them a good stir with a splash of milk to revive their fluffy texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place the potatoes in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or a pat of butter to loosen them up as they warm. Stir gently and heat until steaming hot. You can also microwave them in short bursts, stirring between each, to prevent them from drying out or getting overly thick.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are recommended for their fluffy and creamy results, you can use red potatoes for a slightly waxier texture. Just remember to peel them for a smoother mash, or leave the skins on for a rustic feel.
How can I make these mashed potatoes even more flavorful?
Try mixing in roasted garlic, caramelized onions, or a handful of shredded cheese for a custom twist. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley add bright notes, while a splash of chicken or vegetable broth can boost savory depth.
Can I make Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, these potatoes are perfect for prepping ahead! Assemble them a day in advance and store them in the fridge. To reheat, spread in a baking dish, cover, and warm in a low oven, adding a splash of milk if needed to keep things smooth.
Are Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes gluten-free?
They sure are! All the main ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so as long as you double-check any add-ins or toppings, you can serve these at any gluten-free table with confidence.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Let the mashed potatoes cool completely before sealing them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days, and always reheat gently with a little extra milk or butter for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a sure-bet side dish that always gets rave reviews, Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes belong in your regular rotation. Give them a try the next time you want to treat yourself or wow your guests — creamy, dreamy, and totally irresistible!
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Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mashing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
Creamy and indulgent, these Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes are a perfect side dish for any meal. With the richness of cream cheese and the creaminess of sour cream, these mashed potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that will elevate any dinner.
Ingredients
Potatoes:
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, add salt, and bring to a boil. Simmer until fork-tender.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes, return to the pot, and mash until mostly smooth.
- Add Ingredients: Add cream cheese, sour cream, butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste, adjust seasoning, transfer to a dish, garnish with chives, and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider using roasted garlic in place of some butter.
- Mashed potatoes can be made ahead and reheated with extra milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
