Baked Mashed Potatoes with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting side dish that elevates classic mashed potatoes to a whole new level, this Baked Mashed Potatoes with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine creamy, fluffy potatoes enriched with tangy sour cream and buttery goodness, then baked to golden perfection with a melty cheddar and Parmesan crust that adds the perfect savory crunch. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on your plate and pairs beautifully with any main course. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple on your dinner table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients keep things simple yet impactful, bringing together creamy textures, bold flavors, and just the right amount of richness for that irresistible baked potato dish.
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed: The starchy russet potatoes create the fluffiest, smoothest mash you can imagine.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds creamy tanginess that makes the potatoes extra rich and flavorful.
- 1/4 cup milk: Helps achieve that silky, smooth consistency without being too heavy.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: Brings luscious buttery flavor and richness to every bite.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle warmth and savory depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory notes and adds a gentle sweetness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create that irresistible cheesy layer on top.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional): Offers a fresh, mild bite for a lovely pop of color and flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a slightly nutty and salty crust that pairs perfectly with cheddar.
How to Make Baked Mashed Potatoes with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prep and preheat
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure your cheesy masterpiece doesn’t stick and bakes evenly.
Step 2: Boil the potatoes
Place your peeled and cubed russet potatoes into a large pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender enough to be pierced easily with a fork. This is the foundation of your creamy, fluffy texture.
Step 3: Mash the potatoes
Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash them until completely smooth and creamy. This step ensures you get that light, velvety mash that everyone loves.
Step 4: Mix in the creamy goodness
Stir in the sour cream, milk, and melted butter, followed by garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This blend of ingredients builds the flavor profile and creaminess, so taste and adjust seasoning to make it just right for you.
Step 5: Assemble and top
Transfer your luscious mashed potatoes into the greased baking dish and spread evenly. Now comes the cheesy magic—sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and, if using, the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top to create that golden, crispy crust.
Step 6: Bake to perfection
Pop the dish into your oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and becomes slightly crispy. This baking step transforms the dish from comfort food to an elegant side worthy of any special meal.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
For an extra touch of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped green onions right before serving. Enjoy these warm, cheesy, and creamy baked mashed potatoes with cheddar and Parmesan straight from the oven!
How to Serve Baked Mashed Potatoes with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits add a flavorful crunch and vibrant color that brightens up this creamy dish. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can also lift the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This baked mashed potatoes side pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty vegetable stew, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser for any season or occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch at dinner parties, or fill hollowed-out small bell peppers or baked potato skins with the cheesy mash for an eye-catching appetizer or snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover baked mashed potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This dish holds its creamy texture well after cooling, making it perfect for next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Keep in mind that the cheese topping might change texture slightly after freezing, but reheating will bring back that comforting flavor.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, or microwave in short intervals stirring occasionally until hot and bubbly, restoring the creamy, cheesy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Baked Mashed Potatoes with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan create a classic flavor combo with great meltability, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Gruyere, or even a pepper jack for a different twist.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Peeling gives the smoothest texture, but if you prefer a more rustic feel with extra fiber, leaving the skins on russet or Yukon gold potatoes can add a lovely texture contrast.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time and bake it later?
Definitely. Prepare and mash your potatoes, then store chilled in the baking dish covered tightly with foil. Bake it fresh right before serving, adding the cheese topping just before baking for best results.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese. Both options provide tang and creaminess but adjust amounts to your taste since they vary slightly in thickness and flavor.
How do I get a crispy top without drying out the mashed potatoes?
Baking uncovered at 375°F (190°C) allows the cheese to brown nicely while the mash beneath stays creamy. If you notice it drying out, cover loosely with foil halfway through baking and uncover again at the end.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Mashed Potatoes with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorite comfort foods to share. It’s the perfect balance of rich, creamy, and cheesy flavors with a golden crust that everyone will rave about. Whether you’re serving a holiday feast or just want to cozy up with a homey dish, give it a try—you’ll feel like you’ve discovered a true classic crafted just for you.
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Baked Mashed Potatoes with Cheddar and Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This comforting recipe for Baked Mashed Potatoes takes classic creamy mashed potatoes to the next level by baking them with a cheesy crust. Smooth mashed potatoes are mixed with sour cream, milk, and flavorful spices, then topped with cheddar and Parmesan cheese before baking until golden and bubbly. Perfect as a hearty side dish for family dinners or holiday feasts.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy.
- Mix in Ingredients: Stir in sour cream, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings as needed to achieve a flavorful result.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer the mashed potatoes into the prepared baking dish, spreading them evenly. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and optional Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, optionally garnish with chopped green onions, serve warm, and enjoy your delicious baked mashed potatoes!
Notes
- Russet potatoes work best for fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes but Yukon Gold can also be used for a slightly buttery flavor.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and sour cream.
- Adding Parmesan cheese on top is optional but adds a lovely depth of flavor and a crispy crust.
- Green onions add a fresh, mild bite when used as garnish but can be omitted if preferred.
- Leftover baked mashed potatoes can be reheated in the oven to retain the crispy topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
