Cheddar Mashed Potatoes are fluffy, creamy, and buttery. Loaded with cheddar cheese and hints of garlic, every bite of this classic side dish is delicious and flavorful.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 3 pounds Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup butter
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon chopped green onions or chives (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and add enough salted water to cover them by about an inch. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are soft when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or fork to mash the potatoes to your desired consistency.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the butter, milk, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy, and the cheese has melted.
4. Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish, garnish with chopped green onions or chives if desired, and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 310
• Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 7g
• Vitamin D: 0.2mcg
• Calcium: 150mg
• Iron: 1.2mg
• Potassium: 620mg

Why Cheddar Mashed Potatoes Are a Must-Try

Cheddar Mashed Potatoes are a perfect blend of creaminess and cheesy goodness that can elevate any meal. Whether you are preparing a special holiday dinner or looking for a comforting side dish for a weeknight meal, this recipe is a must-try. Mashed potatoes are already a staple in many households, but adding cheddar cheese brings a new level of flavor and richness. The result is a smooth, buttery, and cheesy dish that pairs wonderfully with various main courses, from roasted meats to grilled vegetables.

The Secret to Creamy Mashed Potatoes

The key to making the creamiest mashed potatoes lies in the type of potatoes used, the cooking method, and the balance of ingredients. Yukon gold and russet potatoes are the best choices because they have a naturally fluffy and starchy texture that absorbs butter and cheese well. Another essential factor is ensuring the potatoes are cooked just right. Overcooking can make them too watery, while undercooking will leave lumps. Mashing them while they are hot also helps create a smoother consistency. Using warm milk and melted butter ensures that the starches in the potatoes do not seize up, leading to a silkier texture. The addition of cheddar cheese not only enhances the flavor but also makes the mashed potatoes extra creamy.

Best Cheese for Mashed Potatoes

While cheddar is the highlight of this recipe, there are other cheeses you can experiment with to customize the flavor.

• Sharp Cheddar: Provides a bold, tangy flavor that stands out without overpowering the dish.
• Mild Cheddar: A great option if you prefer a subtler cheese flavor.
• Parmesan: Adds a nutty and salty touch that complements mashed potatoes well.
• Gruyère: Melts beautifully and adds a rich, slightly nutty taste.
• Mozzarella: Makes the mashed potatoes extra gooey and stretchy.

Mixing different cheeses can create a more complex and interesting flavor profile. However, cheddar remains a classic choice because it balances richness and sharpness perfectly.

What to Serve with Cheddar Mashed Potatoes

This dish is versatile and pairs well with a wide range of main courses. Here are some of the best dishes to serve alongside cheddar mashed potatoes:

• Roasted Chicken or Turkey: The creamy potatoes complement the juicy, savory flavors of roasted poultry.
• Grilled or Baked Steak: The cheesy richness of the mashed potatoes is the perfect contrast to a well-seasoned steak.
• Barbecue Ribs: The smokiness of ribs pairs beautifully with the buttery, cheesy texture of the potatoes.
• Vegetarian Options: Serve alongside roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or a fresh salad for a complete meatless meal.
• Seafood: Garlic butter shrimp or baked salmon with cheddar mashed potatoes make for a delicious combination.

Tips for Making the Best Cheddar Mashed Potatoes

1. Use the Right Potatoes: Stick to Yukon gold or russet potatoes for the creamiest results.
2. Avoid Overmixing: Overworking the potatoes can release too much starch, making them gluey instead of fluffy.
3. Season Well: Potatoes need a good amount of seasoning. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper accordingly.
4. Use Fresh Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture. Shred your own for the best results.
5. Keep Them Warm: If not serving immediately, keep the mashed potatoes warm by placing them in a covered dish over a pot of simmering water.
6. Add Garnishes: Chopped chives, green onions, or crispy bacon bits make excellent toppings for extra flavor and texture.

How to Store and Reheat Cheddar Mashed Potatoes

If you have leftovers, they store well for future meals. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cheddar mashed potatoes for up to 2 months. To freeze, place them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag. When ready to eat, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm them in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of milk or butter to restore their creamy consistency. You can also microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Health Benefits of Potatoes and Cheddar Cheese

Although mashed potatoes are often seen as a comfort food, they do offer some nutritional benefits. Potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber when eaten with the skin. They provide sustained energy due to their complex carbohydrates. Cheddar cheese is rich in calcium and protein, which are essential for bone health and muscle function. However, it is also high in saturated fats, so moderation is key when adding cheese to your mashed potatoes.

Variations of Cheddar Mashed Potatoes

If you want to change things up, here are some variations to try:

• Garlic Cheddar Mashed Potatoes: Roast fresh garlic and mash it into the potatoes for a deeper, more intense garlic flavor.
• Loaded Cheddar Mashed Potatoes: Add crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and chopped green onions for a loaded baked potato-style dish.
• Spicy Cheddar Mashed Potatoes: Stir in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.
• Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes: Mix in a dollop of cream cheese for an even richer and tangier taste.

Conclusion

Cheddar Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that can turn any meal into a satisfying feast. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheddar cheese creates a dish that is both indulgent and full of flavor. Whether served at a holiday gathering or as a side for a simple dinner, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.