Twice Baked Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, these Twice Baked Mashed Potatoes make the perfect comfort food side dish for any meal. Easy, rich, and satisfying!
Ingredients
Potatoes (3 pounds)
- Russet potatoes are classic for a fluffy light mash. Yukon gold potatoes work too, delivering a slightly buttery taste.
Butter (4 tablespoons), softened
- This adds richness and helps with creamy texture.
Sour Cream (½ cup)
- Creates tangy moist mash. You can use Greek yogurt instead, or blend with cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Milk or Half-and-Half (½ cup, warmed)
- Helps achieve a smooth mash and easier mixing.
Cheddar Cheese (1 cup shredded)
- Sharp cheddar melts beautifully. You can also use a Mexican cheese blend or mozzarella for variety.
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
- Essential for balancing flavors. Adjust as needed.
Garlic Powder or Fresh Garlic (optional)
- Adds a mild savory kick. Use about 1 teaspoon powder or 1–2 minced cloves.
Green Onions or Chives (¼ cup, chopped) (optional)
- Sprinkle for color and oniony flavor.
Optional Extras
- Cream Cheese 2–3 tablespoons for richer mash
- Paprika ½ teaspoon for color on top
Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Boil
- Peel the Potatoes (if you prefer): Russets have thicker skins, so most people peel them. Yukon gold can be peeled or left with skins on if you like added texture.
- Cut into Chunks: Slice the potatoes into even pieces so they cook uniformly.
- Place Potatoes in a Large Pot: Add enough cold water to cover them by an inch.
- Boil: Bring to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain them in a colander.
Step 2: Mash the Potatoes
- Return cooked potatoes to the warm pot.
- Add Butter, Sour Cream, and Milk: Mash together with a potato masher or an electric mixer for extra smoothness.
- (Optional) Stir in garlic powder, cream cheese, or extra seasonings.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine with Cheese and Herbs
- Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- (Optional) Mix in chopped green onions, or other add-ins. Adjust flavor as needed.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Spoon Mash into a lightly greased baking dish or casserole dish—9x13 inches works well.
- Top with remaining cheddar cheese. You can sprinkle extra herbs like chives or paprika.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
Step 5: Serve Hot
- Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or more cheese.
- Serve as a side dish with roasted meat, grilled chicken, or any favorite entree.