Tired of ordinary mashed potatoes? Craving a side dish that's both comforting and impressive? Then get ready to elevate your potato game with this recipe for twice-baked mashed potatoes! These aren't your grandma's mashed potatoes – they're creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It's a delicious dish, a quick dinner idea, and a healthy meal option when made with the right ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup butter, unsalted
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or your favorite cheese!)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon bacon bits (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork. Drain well.
Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes
Return the potatoes to the pot. Add milk and butter. Mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and green onions.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mashed potatoes to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Make small wells in the mashed potatoes using a spoon or small spatula. Fill each well with the cheese mixture. If using, sprinkle bacon bits on top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. Let cool slightly before serving.
Tips for the Best Twice Baked Potatoes:
- Use Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for mashing because of their fluffy texture.
- Don't Overmash: Leave a few small lumps for a more rustic texture.
- Get Creative with Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyere would be delicious.
- Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like chives or parsley would add a nice flavor boost.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika can add a little kick.
Variations:
- Bacon and Cheddar: Add crumbled bacon and a generous amount of sharp cheddar cheese for a classic combination.
- Southwest Style: Mix in some diced jalapenos, corn, and pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
- Garlic Lovers: Add more garlic powder, or even some roasted garlic cloves, for an intense garlic flavor.
- Herb and Garlic: Fresh rosemary and thyme would elevate the flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size. Use a nutrition calculator for a precise estimate. However, expect this delicious side dish to be relatively high in carbohydrates and fat, making it a comforting but potentially higher-calorie option to consider within your daily meal plan.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious twice-baked mashed potatoes! This homemade cooking recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. It’s a simple addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Let me know in the comments how yours turned out!