Easy Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
These easy cheesy garlic mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort side dish — rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. They’re perfect for holidays, family dinners, or anytime you want a hearty, crowd-pleasing side you can prepare ahead and bake when guests arrive.
Servings 16 servings
Calories 246kcal
Ingredients
- 6 large russet potatoes peeled and chunked
- 1/2 cup butter cubed, separated
- 1/4 cup sour cream room temperature
- 1/4 cup half and half room temperature
- 4 large garlic cloves pressed
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 1/2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese separated
- smoked paprika for garnish, optional
- chopped scallions for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes: Place peeled russet potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until fork-tender.
- Mash with butter and cream: Drain the potatoes, return to the pot, and add 5 tablespoons of the butter, sour cream, half-and-half, and seasonings. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cheese: Blend in a 1 1/2 cups of the shredded white cheddar until fully combined.
- Prepare the pan: Use the remaining butter to grease a 9x13 baking dish.
- Assemble for baking: Spoon the mixture into the pan, smoothing the top. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese and smoked paprika and scallions if desired.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until heated through and the cheese is fully melted.
Notes
- Butter generously: Coat your baking dish with plenty of butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Skip the brown top: Don’t overbake or let the cheese brown — this dish is best when soft, creamy, and luscious.
- Prepare ahead: Make it in advance and bake when guests arrive so you can enjoy visiting instead of cooking.
- Freeze in portions: Spoon into smaller freezer-safe containers to reheat for easy weeknight sides.
- Add herbs to the water: Boil the potatoes with a few fresh herbs for a subtle, aromatic flavor boost.
Nutrition
Serving: 12cup | Calories: 246kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 36mg | Sodium: 281mg | Potassium: 606mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 392IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 154mg | Iron: 1mg
