Get ready to transform your ordinary mashed potatoes into a mind-blowing, cheesy masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! These Baked Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes are not just a side dish - they're a creamy, golden-topped sensation that elevates comfort food to a whole new level of deliciousness. Imagine velvety potatoes infused with roasted garlic, smothered in melted cheddar, and baked to crispy, bubbly perfection - this recipe is about to become your new go-to crowd-pleaser that'll make you the culinary hero of any meal.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of cold, salted water. Ensure the water covers the potatoes by about an inch.
- Bring the potatoes to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and cook for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- While potatoes are cooking, sauté the minced garlic in a small pan with a tablespoon of butter until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander and return them to the hot pot.
- Add the butter, cream, sautéed garlic, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash thoroughly until smooth and creamy, using a potato masher or electric mixer.
- Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until well combined.
- Transfer the mashed potato mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the potatoes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the dish to set.
- Garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Choose the right potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the creamiest texture.
- Salt your potato water generously to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Make sure to drain potatoes completely to prevent watery mashed potatoes.
- Sauté garlic briefly to release its aromatic flavors without burning.
- For extra smoothness, use a potato ricer or electric mixer instead of a manual masher.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and flavors to meld.
- For a crispy top, you can briefly broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like adding some Parmesan or Gruyère for more depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
