Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes

Name: Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup whole milk (or more, as needed); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes are a rich and indulgent twist on the classic mashed potatoes, made extra creamy with the addition of cream cheese. This dish is the perfect combination of smooth, velvety texture and tangy flavor, making it a standout side for any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday dinner or just as a comforting side, these mashed potatoes will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes for their creamy, fluffy texture and rich flavor. The cream cheese adds a subtle tanginess that enhances the taste, while the butter and cream make them extra silky and decadent. This recipe is simple to make, and it elevates traditional mashed potatoes to a whole new level. These potatoes are perfect for pairing with meats like roast chicken, beef, or turkey, and they’re sure to be a hit at any dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup whole milk (or more, as needed)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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

Directions

Cook the potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain and mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth and fluffy. If you prefer extra smooth mashed potatoes, you can use a potato ricer.
Add cream cheese, butter, and milk: Add the softened cream cheese, butter, and half of the milk to the mashed potatoes. Continue mashing or mixing until everything is well combined and creamy. Add more milk, a little at a time, to reach your desired consistency.
Season: Season the mashed potatoes with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6-8 servings. Preparation time is around 10 minutes, with cooking time of 20 minutes for the potatoes. The total time is about 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy side dish that’s perfect for any meal.

Variations

Cheesy mashed potatoes: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan for a cheesy version of these creamy mashed potatoes.
Herb-infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor. You can also mix in garlic for a roasted garlic version.
Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free cream cheese, butter, and milk substitutes (like almond or oat milk) to make this recipe dairy-free.
Sour cream mashed potatoes: Swap the cream cheese for sour cream for a tangy variation.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. You can also reheat them on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore their creamy texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze mashed potatoes for up to 1 month. To freeze, transfer the mashed potatoes to a freezer-safe container, and thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a hand mixer instead of mashing by hand?

Yes, using a hand mixer is a great way to get extra smooth and fluffy mashed potatoes. Just be careful not to overmix, as this can make the potatoes gummy.

2. Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes! While russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for creamy mashed potatoes, you can also use red potatoes for a different texture. Red potatoes tend to be a bit waxy and will give a denser, creamier mash.

3. Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them ahead and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a little extra milk and heat gently over the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

4. Can I make these mashed potatoes in the slow cooker?

Yes! You can cook the potatoes in a slow cooker on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 hours. Once they are tender, mash them in the slow cooker and mix in the cream cheese, butter, and milk.

5. Can I make these mashed potatoes without cream cheese?

Yes, you can use sour cream, Greek yogurt, or just extra butter and milk in place of the cream cheese for a slightly different flavor.

6. How can I make these mashed potatoes fluffier?

To make fluffier mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer or food mill for the smoothest texture. Also, don’t overmix them, as this can cause them to become dense and sticky.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes are the perfect blend of creamy, indulgent texture and rich flavor. With the addition of cream cheese, these mashed potatoes are smoother and richer than the classic version, making them an irresistible side dish. Whether you serve them with roasted chicken, steak, or any holiday meal, these mashed potatoes will quickly become a staple at your table. They’re simple, customizable, and incredibly satisfying—what’s not to love?