There’s something special about a warm dish of mashed potatoes fresh out of the oven — creamy, buttery, and golden on top. These Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes are pure comfort food magic.
Imagine smooth, whipped potatoes baked until the edges are just slightly crisp, the top lightly browned, and every spoonful melting in your mouth. It’s the kind of cozy side dish that steals the spotlight — perfect for Sunday dinners, Thanksgiving feasts, or any night when you crave something rich and heartwarming.
The best part? This recipe is foolproof — simple ingredients, minimal prep, and guaranteed delicious results. Let’s get baking!
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Side Dish / Dinner / Comfort Food |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 6–8 servings |
| Calories | ~260 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warm)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional but delicious!)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping, optional)
- Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Boil the potatoes:
Add the cubed potatoes to a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain well. - Mash and mix:
Return the hot potatoes to the pot or a large bowl. Add melted butter, sour cream, cream cheese, and warm milk. Mash with a potato masher (or whip with a hand mixer for extra creaminess) until smooth and fluffy. - Season:
Stir in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency with a splash more milk if needed. - Transfer and bake:
Spoon the mashed potatoes into a greased baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using. - Bake to perfection:
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, until lightly golden and bubbling around the edges. - Garnish and serve:
Top with chopped chives or parsley and serve warm.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Texture tip: Don’t overmix the potatoes — it can make them gummy. Mash gently for a fluffy finish.
- Make-ahead option: Prepare the mashed potatoes up to 2 days in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
- For extra decadence: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy twist.
Recipe Variations
- Garlic Herb Version: Add roasted garlic and a tablespoon of fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary).
- Lightened-Up Version: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use low-fat milk.
- Loaded Baked Style: Mix in crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar, and green onions for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect alongside roast chicken, turkey, or beef.
- Serve with gravy, brown butter, or a drizzle of olive oil and sea salt.
- Pair with green beans almondine, roasted carrots, or cranberry relish for a beautiful dinner plate.
Conclusion
These Creamiest Baked Mashed Potatoes are everything comfort food should be — buttery, fluffy, and baked to perfection. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. So grab your spoon, gather around the table, and savor the warmth in every bite.