Creamy Make Ahead Potatoes (Ready-to-Print Version)
Smooth, creamy mashed potatoes prepared ahead and easily reheated for holiday meals or gatherings.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Dairy
01 -
4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
02 -
2 cups half and half
03 -
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for topping
→ Produce
04 -
5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces
05 -
3 to 4 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
→ Seasonings
06 -
2 teaspoons kosher salt
07 -
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 -
Dice the cream cheese and let it warm at room temperature to soften.
02 -
Fill a large pot halfway with water. Peel and dice potatoes into uniform 1-inch pieces. Place diced potatoes into the pot with water.
03 -
Add a heaping spoonful of kosher salt to the pot. Bring water to a rolling boil over high heat, then maintain a gentle boil. Cook potatoes until fork-tender, approximately 12 to 15 minutes.
04 -
While potatoes cook, warm half and half with unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat until steaming but not boiling. Keep warm until ready to use.
05 -
Drain potatoes thoroughly, then return them to the hot pot. Heat over low, stirring frequently for 1 to 2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture. Remove from heat.
06 -
Season potatoes with kosher salt and black pepper. Mash using a potato masher or ricer until smooth and creamy.
07 -
Gently fold in the softened cream cheese. Add 1 cup of the warm half and half mixture, folding to combine. Continue adding 1/2 cup increments until the desired creamy consistency is reached, careful not to overmix.
08 -
Transfer mashed potatoes to a covered bowl or casserole dish. Refrigerate for up to 2 days until ready to reheat.
09 -
Reheat gently in the oven, microwave, or slow cooker until warm. Just before serving, top with butter and freshly chopped chives or parsley.
# Handy Tips:
01 -
Heating the half and half mixture until steaming ensures a smooth mash without lumps.
02 -
Allow the potatoes to dry thoroughly after draining to avoid watery mash.