Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
Jump to Recipe
These Cheddar Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish—fluffy, creamy, buttery, and loaded with melty cheddar cheese. With a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of optional chives or green onions, every bite is packed with flavor. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy Goodness: Sharp cheddar cheese melts right into the potatoes, creating the perfect creamy texture.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have everything you need in your kitchen!
- Versatile Side Dish: Pairs beautifully with everything from roasted chicken to barbecue ribs.
- Customizable: Add your favorite garnishes or mix-ins to make it your own.
Ingredients for Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
- 3 pounds Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon chopped green onions or chives (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and add enough salted water to cover them by about an inch.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 2: Drain and Mash
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Using a potato masher or fork, mash the potatoes to your desired consistency (chunky or smooth—your choice!).
Step 3: Add the Good Stuff
- Add the butter, milk, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes.
- Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or chives, if desired, and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon golds are creamy and buttery, while russets are light and fluffy. Either works great for this recipe!
- Mash While Hot: Mashing the potatoes while they’re still hot ensures a smoother texture.
- Warm Your Milk and Butter: Adding cold ingredients can cool down the potatoes and make them less creamy. Warm them slightly before mixing in.
- Season Generously: Potatoes need a good amount of salt to enhance their flavor. Taste and adjust as needed!
Why Cheddar Mashed Potatoes Are a Must-Try
1. Comfort Food Elevated
Mashed potatoes are already a classic, but the addition of cheddar cheese takes them to a whole new level of indulgence.
2. Easy to Make
With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a side dish that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion
From holiday dinners to casual weeknight meals, these mashed potatoes fit right in.
What to Serve with Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
- Roasted Chicken or Turkey: A classic pairing that’s perfect for holidays or Sunday dinners.
- Grilled or Baked Steak: The creamy, cheesy potatoes complement a juicy steak beautifully.
- Barbecue Ribs: The smoky, tangy flavor of ribs pairs perfectly with the richness of the mashed potatoes.
- Vegetarian Options: Serve alongside roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or a fresh salad.
- Seafood: Try garlic butter shrimp or baked salmon for a lighter yet satisfying meal.
Variations and Add-Ins
1. Loaded Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
- Add crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and extra cheese for a loaded baked potato vibe.
2. Garlic Lovers’ Mashed Potatoes
- Roast fresh garlic and mash it into the potatoes for a deeper, richer garlic flavor.
3. Spicy Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
- Stir in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
4. Herb-Infused Potatoes
- Mix in fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley for an herby twist.
5. Extra Creamy with Cream Cheese
- Add a dollop of cream cheese for an even richer, tangier flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Freeze mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
- Warm in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of milk or butter to restore the creamy texture.
- Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Nutritional Information
Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Potassium: 620mg
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
1. Simple Yet Impressive
Cheddar Mashed Potatoes are easy to make but taste like a gourmet side dish.
2. Crowd-Pleaser
Everyone—from kids to adults—will love the cheesy, garlicky goodness of this recipe.
3. Versatile and Customizable
You can tweak this recipe to suit your tastes, making it a staple in your kitchen.
The Ultimate Comfort Food Side Dish
Cheddar Mashed Potatoes are everything you want in a side dish: creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering, a dinner party, or a cozy family meal, they’re guaranteed to steal the show.
