Description
This Cheesy Mashed Potatoes recipe combines creamy mashed potatoes with savory bacon, cream cheese, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Baked to golden perfection and topped with fresh chives, this hearty side dish is perfect for family dinners or holiday meals, offering a rich, flavorful twist on classic mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes & Dairy
- 2 ½ pounds potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and cubed
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Meat & Seasonings
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- ¼ cup chives, minced, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large saucepan, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes thoroughly to remove excess water.
- Cook Bacon: While the potatoes cook, place chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until the bacon is crispy, then drain on paper towels to remove excess grease.
- Mash Potatoes: Transfer the hot potatoes to a large bowl and mash until fluffy. Add softened cream cheese, melted butter, sour cream, milk, half of the shredded cheddar, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the minced chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well by hand or use a hand mixer for a creamier texture.
- Assemble and Bake: Grease a baking dish and spread the mashed potato mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cooked bacon, and the remaining chives over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately while hot and melty for maximum flavor and comfort.
Notes
- Russet potatoes yield the fluffiest mash, while Yukon Gold adds a buttery flavor.
- For extra cheesiness, feel free to add more cheese or swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack.
- Make sure to drain potatoes thoroughly to avoid watery mashed potatoes.
- You can prepare this dish a few hours ahead; just cover and refrigerate before baking.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to retain texture.
