Description

Craving a side dish that’s the epitome of comfort food? Creamy Mashed Potatoes, inspired by Ree Drummond’s recipe from The Pioneer Woman, deliver a velvety texture with rich, buttery flavor thanks to cream cheese, butter, and cream. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars from 218 reviews, this easy recipe is a holiday and everyday favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Creamy Mashed Potatoes use rich ingredients for a decadent result. Here’s what you’ll need for 12 servings:

5 pounds Yukon gold or russet potatoes: The starchy base for a creamy texture.
1 ½ sticks (12 tablespoons) softened unsalted butter, plus more for baking: Adds rich flavor and smoothness.
1 ½ (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened (12 ounces total): Creates a velvety, tangy texture.
½ cup half-and-half: Enhances creaminess.
½ cup heavy cream: Boosts richness.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Milk, if needed: For thinning the consistency (about ¼-½ cup if used).

Why These Ingredients Matter

Potatoes: Yukon golds are creamy, russets are fluffy—both work beautifully.
Butter and Cream Cheese: Provide indulgent richness and a smooth texture.
Half-and-Half and Cream: Ensure a velvety, luxurious consistency.
Salt and Pepper: Balance the rich flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

Potatoes: Use red potatoes for a waxy texture or a mix for varied consistency.
Butter: Swap with plant-based butter for vegan or olive oil for a lighter option.
Cream Cheese: Use low-fat cream cheese, mascarpone, or vegan cream cheese.
Half-and-Half and Cream: Replace with whole milk, evaporated milk, or plant-based cream (e.g., coconut or oat) for vegan.
Milk: Use plant-based milk or broth for thinning.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, cream cheese, and cream/milk alternatives.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
Flavor Variations:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add 2-3 roasted garlic cloves, mashed, with the butter.
- Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan before baking.
- Herb Mashed Potatoes: Add 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, parsley, or rosemary.
- Spicy Mashed Potatoes: Mix in ¼ teaspoon cayenne or 1 tablespoon hot sauce.
- Bacon Mashed Potatoes: Stir in 4 slices cooked, crumbled bacon before baking.

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Instructions

Step 1: Gather and Prep

Gather all ingredients: 5 pounds potatoes, 1 ½ sticks butter, 12 ounces cream cheese, ½ cup half-and-half, ½ cup cream, salt, pepper, and milk (if needed).
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Peel potatoes and rinse in cold water; cut into quarters for even cooking.
Prepare a large casserole pan (e.g., 9×13-inch).

Tip: Choose similar-sized potato pieces for even boiling; soften butter and cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing.

Step 2: Boil and Mash Potatoes

Place potato quarters in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
Bring to a boil over high heat, then cook until fork-tender, 20-25 minutes.
Drain potatoes and return to the pot.
With the burner on low heat, mash with a potato masher for about 5 minutes, allowing steam to escape for a fluffier texture.
Turn off the burner.

Tip: Mash thoroughly to release steam; don’t overcook potatoes to avoid gumminess.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add 1 ½ sticks softened butter, 12 ounces softened cream cheese, ½ cup half-and-half, ½ cup cream, and salt and pepper to taste.
Stir until fully combined and smooth; add a splash of milk (¼-½ cup) if the mixture is too thick.
Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper.

Tip: Stir gently to avoid a gluey texture; add milk gradually to reach desired consistency.

Step 4: Bake

Pour the mashed potatoes into the casserole pan, spreading evenly.
Dot the surface with small pieces of butter (about 1-2 tablespoons).
Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until heated through and slightly golden.

Tip: Dot butter evenly for a rich finish; remove foil carefully to avoid steam burns.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot, scooping about ¾ cup per serving.
Pair with roast turkey, gravy, or green beans for a holiday meal.

Tip: Let cool for 5 minutes for easier scooping; garnish with extra pepper or herbs for presentation.