Take your mashed potatoes to the next level with this customizable "Mashed Potatoes with Variations" recipe, perfect for any occasion! Start with creamy, fluffy Russet potatoes blended with rich butter and a hint of heavy cream for a classic comfort food base. From there, elevate your dish by choosing one of three delicious variations: a savory garlic herb mash with sautéed garlic and fresh parsley, a gooey cheesy version featuring cheddar and Parmesan, or a loaded bacon and chive twist bursting with smoky, salty goodness. With only 15 minutes of prep time and endless flavor possibilities, this versatile recipe is your go-to side dish for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or special gatherings. Serve it as-is or mix and match add-ins for a crowd-pleasing, homemade masterpiece that never disappoints! Keywords: mashed potatoes recipe, loaded mashed potatoes, garlic herb mashed potatoes, cheesy mashed potatoes, easy side dish, customizable mashed potatoes.
Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch.
Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
While the potatoes are cooking, warm the heavy cream and butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Do not let it boil.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or ricer until smooth.
Gradually mix in the warm butter and cream mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
For the garlic herb variation: Mince the garlic cloves and sauté them in 1 tablespoon of butter over low heat until fragrant. Stir the sautéed garlic and chopped parsley into the mashed potatoes.
For the cheesy variation: Stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
For the loaded bacon and chive variation: Fold in the crumbled bacon and chopped chives.
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with additional parsley, cheese, bacon, or chives, if desired. Serve hot.
Calories |
2882 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 186.4 g | 239% | |
| Saturated Fat | 108.7 g | 544% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 522 mg | 174% | |
| Sodium | 5366 mg | 233% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 209.8 g | 76% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.6 g | 59% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.7 g | ||
| Protein | 99.2 g | 198% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.6 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 1638 mg | 126% | |
| Iron | 12.0 mg | 67% | |
| Potassium | 5482 mg | 117% | |
*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.