Are you craving comfort food that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This creamy mashed potato recipe, elevated with the tang of cream cheese and the richness of sour cream, is the ultimate side dish—or even a satisfying meal on its own. Forget bland, boring potatoes; this recipe delivers a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds. It's perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or any time you need a quick and healthy meal. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup milk (whole milk recommended for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Boil the Potatoes: Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
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Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes thoroughly. Return them to the pot and mash until mostly smooth. You can use a potato masher, a hand mixer, or even a food processor for extra smoothness.
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Incorporate the Creamy Goodness: Add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, butter, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) to the mashed potatoes. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined and the mixture is light and fluffy. If it seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of extra milk until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the mashed potatoes into bowls or serve alongside your favorite dishes. Garnish with fresh chives for an extra touch of elegance and flavor. This recipe offers a great option for quick dinner ideas.
Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes:
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes due to their fluffy texture.
- Don't Overmash: While you want smooth mashed potatoes, avoid over-mashing, as this can make them gummy.
- Keep it Warm: If you're not serving the mashed potatoes immediately, keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F) to prevent them from drying out.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the salt, pepper, and garlic powder to your liking.
Variations:
- Add Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, parmesan, or Gruyere for a bolder flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Herby Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for an aromatic twist.
- Roasted Garlic: Use roasted garlic instead of garlic powder for a deeper, sweeter garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This easy recipe provides a healthy and delicious side dish or light meal. The recipe is perfect for those looking for simple food recipes or healthy meals. Enjoy your creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes!