Effortless Holiday Side: Prepare Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese for Stress-Free Entertaining

Indulge in the comfort and convenience of make-ahead mashed potatoes using cream cheese. This culinary masterpiece combines the classic flavors of mashed potatoes with the velvety richness of cream cheese, creating a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and save you precious time.

Benefits of Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

• Convenience: Prepare your potatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer, freeing up your time on the day of your meal.
• Time-Saving: No more last-minute peeling and mashing. Simply reheat your potatoes when you’re ready to serve.
• Flavorful: The addition of cream cheese adds an irresistible creamy texture and subtle tang to your mashed potatoes.
• Versatile: Make-ahead mashed potatoes can be used as a side dish, topping for casseroles, or base for shepherd’s pie.

Ingredients

• 5 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Boil Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot of cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain Potatoes: Drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot.
3. Mash Potatoes: Use a potato masher or fork to mash the potatoes until smooth.
4. Add Cream and Butter: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and butter until the potatoes reach your desired consistency.
5. Incorporate Cream Cheese: Add the softened cream cheese and stir until well combined.
6. Season to Taste: Add sour cream, parsley, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir until well-seasoned.
7. Store: Transfer the mashed potatoes to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerated Potatoes: Remove the mashed potatoes from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for 30 minutes. Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Frozen Potatoes: Thaw the mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Creative Variations

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add minced garlic to the potatoes while boiling.
• Cheddar Mashed Potatoes: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese before serving.
• Herb Mashed Potatoes: Add chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, to the mashed potatoes.
• Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roast garlic cloves and add them to the mashed potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

• Roasted Chicken or Turkey: Complement your poultry with creamy mashed potatoes.
• Grilled Salmon: Balance the richness of salmon with the fluffy texture of mashed potatoes.
• Beef Stew: Add a comforting touch to hearty beef stew with a side of mashed potatoes.
• Vegetable Casseroles: Use mashed potatoes as a topping for vegetable casseroles, creating a satisfying and flavorful crust.

Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes

• Use russet potatoes for their high starch content, which creates a fluffy texture.
• Don’t overcook the potatoes. They should be tender but still hold their shape.
• Mash the potatoes while they are still hot to prevent them from becoming gluey.
• Add the milk, cream, and butter gradually to avoid making the potatoes too runny.
• Let the mashed potatoes rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use other types of potatoes for make-ahead mashed potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or Red potatoes, but they may not be as fluffy as russet potatoes.

Q: How long can I store make-ahead mashed potatoes in the refrigerator?
A: Refrigerated mashed potatoes can be stored for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze make-ahead mashed potatoes?
A: Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I make mashed potatoes without cream cheese?
A: Yes, you can make mashed potatoes without cream cheese. However, the addition of cream cheese adds a velvety texture and subtle tang.

Q: What can I do with leftover mashed potatoes?
A: Leftover mashed potatoes can be used to make potato cakes, potato soup, or potato dumplings.