Looking to elevate your dinner table? Let me introduce you to cheddar herb mashed potatoes! This rich and creamy delight combines the smooth texture of Yukon Gold potatoes with sharp cheddar cheese and fresh herbs. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking newbie, your taste buds will thank you. Dive in to discover the joy of making this classic dish!

Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
Additional Ingredients
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup cream cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh chives and parsley
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
The base of my cheddar herb mashed potatoes starts with two pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes. These potatoes are buttery and perfect for mashing. I peel and cut them into even cubes to ensure they cook uniformly.
Next, I use half a cup of unsalted butter. This adds richness and helps create a creamy texture. For a cheesy kick, I add one cup of sharp cheddar cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts beautifully into the potatoes.
To boost the creaminess, I include half a cup of warmed heavy cream and a quarter cup of softened cream cheese. The cream cheese adds a nice tang that balances the flavors.
I also love adding fresh herbs, so I chop a mix of chives and parsley, each a quarter cup. They add freshness and color to the dish.
For seasoning, I use one teaspoon of garlic powder along with salt and black pepper to taste. The garlic powder gives a nice depth to the dish.
This ingredient combination makes my cheddar herb mashed potatoes a rich and creamy delight. Each bite is a warm, cheesy hug for your taste buds.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Potatoes
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes that you have peeled and cut into cubes. Cook them for about 15 to 20 minutes. You want them to be fork-tender. That means they should break apart easily. Once they are done, drain the potatoes in a colander. Next, return them to the pot. Set the heat to low for about 2 minutes. This step helps any extra moisture to evaporate.
Mashing and Mixing
Now it’s time to mash! Add 1/2 cup of unsalted butter to the warm potatoes. Use a potato masher or ricer to mash them. Keep mashing until they are smooth and creamy. After that, gradually mix in 1/2 cup of warmed heavy cream and 1/4 cup of softened cream cheese. Stir well until both are fully blended. This will give your potatoes a velvety texture.
Adding Cheese and Herbs
It’s cheese time! Slowly mix in 1 cup of freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts and spreads evenly. Then, add in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, along with 1/4 cup of finely chopped chives and 1/4 cup of finely chopped parsley. Finally, season your mashed potatoes with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Give it a good stir to make sure all the flavors combine.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Consistency
To get creamy mashed potatoes, you need to mash them well. Use a potato masher or a ricer for the best results. This helps break down the potatoes into a smooth texture.
– Best practices for mashing: Mash the potatoes right after boiling. This keeps them warm and makes them easier to mash.
– Adjusting cream for creaminess: If you want more creaminess, slowly add warm heavy cream. Mix until you reach your preferred texture.
Flavor Enhancements
You can boost the flavor of your mashed potatoes with more herbs. Fresh herbs add a nice taste and color.
– Suggestions for additional herbs: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary for an herbal twist. Just chop them finely and mix in.
– Cheese alternatives for variety: If you want to switch things up, use gouda or mozzarella. These cheeses melt well and add a unique flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These mashed potatoes pair well with many dishes. Serve them alongside your favorite meats or veggies.
– Ideal accompaniments: They go great with roast chicken, grilled steak, or steamed broccoli.
– Presentation tips for serving: Use a decorative bowl for serving. Top with more cheese and herbs for a beautiful finish.
Variations
Cheddar Herb Mashed Potatoes with Bacon
You can add crispy bacon bits to your cheddar herb mashed potatoes. This gives a salty crunch that pairs well with the creamy texture. To make this, cook bacon until crispy, then chop it into small pieces. Stir the bacon in after mixing the cheese and herbs. Adjust the seasoning by reducing salt, as bacon adds extra flavor.
Creamy Loaded Mashed Potatoes
For a richer dish, try making creamy loaded mashed potatoes. Add sour cream and chopped green onions for a fresh twist. Mix these in after the cheese. You can also top the potatoes with crispy bacon bits, additional cheese, or even some fresh herbs. This version is hearty and perfect for a cozy meal.
Vegan Option for Herb Mashed Potatoes
You can make a vegan version of these herb mashed potatoes. Use non-dairy butter and almond milk instead of cream. Plant-based cheese can replace sharp cheddar. Some great options are cashew cheese or coconut-based cheese. This way, you keep the creamy texture and delicious flavor while making it plant-based.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftover cheddar herb mashed potatoes safely, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents moisture loss. Store them in the fridge. They should last up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in a pot over low heat. Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk to bring back creaminess. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts, mixing in between, to avoid hot spots.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze cheddar herb mashed potatoes for longer storage. First, let them cool completely. Use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag for best results. Press out as much air as possible before sealing. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. For reheating, warm them in a pot with a bit of cream. Stir well until they are heated through.
Shelf Life
Cheddar herb mashed potatoes last about three days in the fridge and up to three months in the freezer. Look for signs of spoilage before eating. If you see any discoloration or an off smell, it’s best to throw them away. Fresh mashed potatoes should smell cheesy and herbaceous, with no signs of mold. Enjoy these tasty potatoes while they are still fresh for the best flavor and texture!
FAQs
How can I make cheddar herb mashed potatoes vegan?
To make cheddar herb mashed potatoes vegan, you can swap out the butter and cream. Use plant-based butter or olive oil instead of butter. For the cream, try coconut cream or almond milk. You can also use cashew cream for a rich texture. For cheese, look for vegan cheddar options that melt well. These swaps let you enjoy creamy potatoes without dairy.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes are great because they are creamy and smooth. Russet potatoes can also work, but they may make the mash fluffier. Red potatoes are waxy and can give a different texture. Each type will change the taste, so pick what you like best.
What can I do if my mashed potatoes are too thick?
If your mashed potatoes are too thick, don’t worry! You can add more cream or a splash of milk. Stir it in slowly until you reach the right consistency. Another option is to mix in some vegetable broth. This will add flavor and help thin them out. Always mix well and taste as you go.
In this post, you learned how to make delicious cheddar herb mashed potatoes. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step directions, and tips for perfect consistency. You can also try tasty variations like adding bacon or making it vegan. Remember to store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. These mashed potatoes are a great side dish for any meal. Enjoy making them at home and feel proud of your cooking skills!
