Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

These cheesy mashed potatoes are indulgently rich, creamy, and full of flavor, thanks to a mix of sharp cheddar and Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese. They’re the perfect comfort food and an essential addition to any holiday feast!

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword cheesy mashed potatoes, mashed potato recipe, side dishes

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Servings

Calories 336kcal

Author Erin Dooner

Ingredients

3 pounds (1360 grams) starchy potatoes (Yukon gold are best, followed by Russet)
1/4 cup (56 grams) unsalted butter room temp or warmed
3/4 to 1 cup (177 to 236 ml) whole milk or whatever you have on hand, room temp or warmed
2 cups (225 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese room temp
1/2 cup (52 grams) shredded Parmesan or Pecorino Romano room temp
1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Peel the potatoes and cut into 1" chunks.
Put the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water, making sure the potatoes are covered with at least 1" of water.
Turn the heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low to keep the potatoes at a simmer. Simmer for about 10-14 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Drain the potatoes and return the pot (with the potatoes in it) back to the stove. Let any remaining moisture cook off.
Add the butter and stir to coat the potatoes in the butter.
Add the remaining ingredients (use just 3/4 cup of milk at the beginning and add more, if needed - I used 1 cup). Mash the potatoes with a potato masher, food mill or ricer.
I used a potato masher, and when I couldn’t get out any more lumps, I switched to a hand mixer and used that just a bit until the lumps were mostly gone and the potatoes were fluffy. The more you mess with the potatoes, the gummier they'll be.
Serve immediately. Cool any leftovers and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Notes

Starchy potatoes such as Yukon Gold or Russets are ideal for mashed potatoes. Yukon Gold offers a naturally rich flavor, while Russets deliver a light, fluffy texture. As mentioned earlier, Russets were used in the photos, but if you're aiming for a richer golden color, Yukon Gold is the way to go.

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