These Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food! Buttery smooth, ultra-creamy mashed potatoes infused with tangy cream cheese for an unforgettable twist. Perfect for holidays or any meal, this recipe will take your mashed potatoes to the next level. Serve them as a side dish for a deliciously rich and indulgent treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I absolutely love how these Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes take mashed potatoes to the next level. The cream cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the buttery smoothness of the potatoes. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast. Plus, the potatoes come out so creamy and soft that I can’t help but go back for seconds! This dish will easily become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
I begin by placing the cubed potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. I add a pinch of salt to the water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, I reduce the heat and let the potatoes simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender.
After draining the potatoes, I return them to the pot and let them sit for about 1-2 minutes so that any excess moisture can evaporate.
I add the softened cream cheese, butter, milk (or heavy cream), salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using) to the pot.
Using a potato masher or hand mixer, I mash the potatoes until they’re smooth and creamy. If the consistency isn’t quite right, I add a bit more milk.
I taste and adjust the seasoning, then transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish.
For garnish, I sprinkle fresh chives, extra butter, or a touch of black pepper on top. Serve warm, and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Variations
Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: For an even cheesier version, I add shredded cheddar cheese along with the cream cheese.
Herb-Infused Potatoes: Adding fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme gives these mashed potatoes an extra flavor boost.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: I sometimes add roasted garlic for an additional depth of flavor, making the potatoes even more savory.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, I place the mashed potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen them up, and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Alternatively, I reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to restore their creamy texture.
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FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, while I personally love Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creamy texture, you can use other types of potatoes, such as red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! I often make them a day ahead, then simply reheat them before serving. They hold up well and still taste great!
Can I use a hand mixer instead of a potato masher?
Definitely! A hand mixer makes the potatoes extra smooth and fluffy. Just be careful not to overmix them, as that could make them a little too fluffy or gummy.
Is there a way to make these mashed potatoes dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter, and swap the milk for a non-dairy milk like almond milk or coconut milk.
How can I make these mashed potatoes even richer?
To make the mashed potatoes richer, I suggest using heavy cream instead of milk, and adding more butter and cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Conclusion
These Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and indulgence to any meal. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a holiday gathering, I’m sure they’ll be a hit. The cream cheese adds a unique twist, making them stand out from your regular mashed potatoes. The creamy texture and rich flavor are simply irresistible.
📖 Recipe:
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Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ultra-creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with a rich and tangy twist from cream cheese—perfect for any meal or holiday feast!
Ingredients
2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Place cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt, bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat and let potatoes simmer for 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender.
- Drain potatoes, return to pot, and let sit for 1-2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
- Add softened cream cheese, butter, milk (or heavy cream), salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
- Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed for desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Transfer mashed potatoes to a serving dish.
- Garnish with fresh chives, extra butter, or black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
You can use different types of potatoes such as red or sweet potatoes for a twist.
To make these mashed potatoes dairy-free, swap cream cheese for a non-dairy version and use plant-based butter and milk.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 280 kcal
