Make Ahead Ranch Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, flavorful, and perfect for stress-free entertaining, these Make Ahead Ranch Mashed Potatoes are a game-changer for any holiday or family dinner. Made with russet potatoes, butter, cream cheese, and a packet of zesty ranch seasoning, this recipe delivers a rich, tangy twist on a classic side dish. Designed for convenience, these ultra-smooth mashed potatoes can be prepped up to two days in advance, so you'll have more time to focus on your main course. Simply bake them to golden perfection when you're ready to serve and garnish with fresh chives for an elegant finishing touch. Whether you're planning Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy Sunday meal, this make-ahead recipe ensures creamy mashed potatoes without the last-minute hassle.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pounds russet potatoes
- 8 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes, about 1-2 inches wide.
Place the potato cubes into a large pot and add enough water to cover them by about 2 inches. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water.
Bring the pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. You can test them by piercing one with a fork; it should slide in easily.
Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Set the pot back on the stove over low heat for 1-2 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Stir gently to prevent sticking.
Add butter, cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and remaining salt and pepper to the pot with the potatoes.
Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash the mixture until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the milk, starting with 1/2 cup and increasing as needed, until you reach your desired consistency.
Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to preference.
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a buttered 9x13-inch baking dish. If preparing in advance, allow them to cool completely, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
When ready to serve, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the potatoes from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes. Bake, covered, for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
For a golden top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking and broil briefly if desired.
Garnish with freshly chopped chives before serving, if using.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3634 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 178.2 g | 228% | |
| Saturated Fat | 100.0 g | 500% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 514 mg | 171% | |
| Sodium | 7711 mg | 335% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 435.8 g | 158% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 32.1 g | 115% | |
| Total Sugars | 44.9 g | ||
| Protein | 78.6 g | 157% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.1 mcg | 16% | |
| Calcium | 834 mg | 64% | |
| Iron | 22.1 mg | 123% | |
| Potassium | 10905 mg | 232% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
