Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that goes well with almost any main course.
While mashed potatoes are delicious on their own, adding cheese can take them to the next level.
However, not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to mashed potatoes.
In this article, we will explore the best cheese for mashed potatoes and nine other delicious alternatives that can elevate your dish.
Whether you’re looking for a classic cheesy flavor or something more unique, we’ve got you covered.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of cheese and find the best cheese for mashed potatoes!
The Best Cheese for Mashed Potatoes: Cheddar
When it comes to adding cheese to mashed potatoes, cheddar is the undisputed king.
Its sharp, tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes, creating a deliciously rich and savory dish.
Here are a few reasons why cheddar is the best cheese for mashed potatoes:
- Flavor: Cheddar has a strong, distinctive flavor that adds depth and complexity to the dish. The sharpness of the cheese is balanced by the creaminess of the potatoes, creating a deliciously rich and savory flavor.
- Melting properties: Cheddar is a great melting cheese, which means it blends seamlessly into the mashed potatoes, creating a smooth and even texture. The cheese also adds a golden color to the dish, making it even more visually appealing.
- Versatility: Cheddar comes in a variety of forms, from mild to extra sharp. This means you can customize the flavor of your mashed potatoes to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for a mild cheddar. If you like a stronger flavor, go for an extra sharp cheddar.
Overall, cheddar is the perfect cheese for mashed potatoes because of its rich flavor, melting properties, and versatility.
9 Other Cheeses That Go Well in Mashed Potatoes
There are plenty of good cheeses that can add a cheesy twist to mashed potatoes.
In addition to cheddar, which is the top cheese for mashed potatoes, here are nine other best cheeses that you can add to your mashed potatoes to make them even more delicious.
- Parmesan: Parmesan adds a nutty and savory flavor to mashed potatoes. A half cup of shredded parmesan mixed with a cup of shredded cheddar cheese will make your mashed potatoes incredibly cheesy and delicious.
- White cheddar: White cheddar is a good alternative to yellow cheddar. It has a milder flavor that works well with mashed potatoes.
- Cream cheese: Cream cheese is a secret ingredient in some mashed potato recipes. It makes the mashed potatoes extra creamy and decadent.
- Goat cheese: Goat cheese adds a tangy flavor to mashed potatoes. David Tanis has an easy recipe for cheesy mashed potatoes that includes goat cheese and garlic.
- Asiago: Asiago is a good cheese for mashed potatoes because of its sharp and nutty flavor. You can add it to your mashed potatoes for a cheesy and slightly earthy taste.
- Smoked Gouda: Smoked Gouda has a smoky and slightly sweet flavor that makes it a perfect addition to mashed potatoes. You can add it to your mashed potatoes to give them a unique and delicious taste.
- Monterey Jack: Monterey Jack is a good cheese for mashed potatoes because it is mild and creamy. It is a good option for those who want to add cheese to their mashed potatoes without overpowering the dish.
- Feta: Feta is a crumbly and salty cheese that adds a nice contrast of texture and flavor to mashed potatoes. You can add it to your mashed potatoes with some sour cream and heavy cream to make them even more creamy and delicious.
- Parmesan and cheddar: Parmesan and cheddar make a good combination for mashed potatoes. You can mix them together for a cheesy and flavorful side dish that is perfect for Thanksgiving or any other occasion.
Adding cheese to mashed potatoes is an easy way to make the side dish even more delicious. These best cheeses will make your mashed potatoes cheesy and irresistible.
So, add them to your recipe and enjoy the cheesy goodness in just minutes.
Tips for Making Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
If you want to make the best cheesy mashed potatoes, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Start with the right potato: Choosing the right potato is key to making perfect mashed potatoes. Look for a potato with a high starch content like Russet or Yukon Gold, which will result in a fluffy and creamy mashed potato.
- Use butter and cream: Adding butter and cream to your mashed potatoes will make them extra creamy and delicious. Use heavy cream or whole milk for the best results. Don’t forget to add a dollop of sour cream for extra tanginess.
- Mix in cheese gradually: To ensure that the cheese melts evenly into the mashed potatoes, mix it in gradually. Add a small amount at a time, and mix until the cheese is fully melted before adding more.
- Add garlic: Garlic is a great addition to cheesy mashed potatoes, adding a subtle depth of flavor. Simply chop or mince garlic and add it to the mashed potatoes as you mix in the cheese.
- Use a potato masher or ricer: Using a potato masher or ricer will ensure that the mashed potatoes have a smooth and creamy texture. Avoid using a food processor, as this can result in a gummy texture.
By following these tips, you can make the best cheesy mashed potatoes every time. Adding a cup of shredded cheddar cheese to your mashed potatoes is an easy way to boost their cheesiness, while incorporating ingredients like cream cheese and heavy cream will make them even more decadent.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses and ingredients to create your perfect recipe!
Creative Ways to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Cheesy mashed potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be served in many creative ways beyond just being a side dish.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Stuffed Vegetables: Use cheesy mashed potatoes as a filling for stuffed vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes. Simply hollow out the vegetables and stuff them with the mashed potatoes, then bake in the oven until golden brown. This is a great way to incorporate potatoes into a healthy dish and create a hearty vegetarian meal.
- Shepherd’s Pie: Use cheesy mashed potatoes as the topping for a classic shepherd’s pie. Layer ground beef or lamb with vegetables, top with the mashed potatoes, and bake until golden brown and bubbling. This is a perfect comfort food dish for cold winter nights.
- Cheesy Mashed Potato Bake: Bake the cheesy mashed potatoes in a casserole dish with additional cheese, bacon, or even vegetables like broccoli or spinach. Top with breadcrumbs for added crunch. This dish is easy to make and perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
- Mashed Potato Croquettes: Roll the mashed potatoes into balls or other shapes, coat in breadcrumbs, and fry until golden brown for a crispy, cheesy appetizer. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
- Mashed Potato Waffles: Use leftover mashed potatoes to make savory waffles. Simply add an egg and some flour to the mashed potatoes, mix well, and cook in a waffle iron until crispy. Serve with sour cream, chives, and your favorite toppings for a delicious and easy breakfast dish.
By serving cheesy mashed potatoes in creative ways, you can transform this classic side dish into a show-stopping main course or appetizer.
Cheesy mashed potatoes can also be used as a topping for soups or served as a side dish for a variety of main dishes, such as meatloaf or roasted chicken. Experiment with different recipes and flavors to find your perfect cheesy mashed potato dish!
Using Cream Cheese to Make Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
In addition to traditional cheeses like cheddar and parmesan, cream cheese can be used to make delicious and creamy mashed potatoes.
Here’s a simple recipe for using cream cheese in your mashed potatoes:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of potatoes
- 4 oz of cream cheese
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Peel and dice your potatoes into small pieces. Place them in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt to the water to help the potatoes cook evenly.
- Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and add them back to the pot. Add the cream cheese, milk, and butter to the pot.
- Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or use a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the mashed potatoes hot and enjoy!
Adding cream cheese to your mashed potatoes is a great way to create a rich and creamy texture that everyone will love. The tanginess of the cream cheese also adds a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the potatoes and cheese. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses and ingredients to find your perfect recipe!
How to Achieve the Perfect Mash for Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Achieving the perfect texture for your mashed potatoes is key to creating delicious and creamy cheesy mashed potatoes.
Here are some tips on how to achieve the perfect mash:
- Choose the right potato: Choose potatoes with high starch content like Russet or Yukon Gold, which will result in a fluffy and creamy mashed potato.
- Cut potatoes into small pieces: Cut your potatoes into small, even pieces before boiling. This will help them cook evenly and result in a smooth mash.
- Boil potatoes until fork-tender: Boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender, usually around 15-20 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, as this can result in a gummy texture.
- Drain potatoes thoroughly: Drain the potatoes thoroughly to ensure that there is no excess water in your mash.
- Mash potatoes using a potato masher or ricer: Use a potato masher or ricer to create a smooth and creamy texture for your mashed potatoes. Avoid using a food processor, as this can result in a gummy texture.
By following these tips, you can achieve the perfect mash for your cheesy mashed potatoes every time.
This will ensure that the cheese and other ingredients are mixed evenly throughout the mashed potatoes, resulting in a delicious and creamy dish.
What Potato Side Dish to Serve with Cheesy Mashed Potatoes?
Cheesy mashed potatoes make a delicious side dish on their own, but they can also be paired with other potato-based side dishes to create a hearty and satisfying meal.
Here are a few ideas for delicious potato side dishes to serve with your cheesy mashed potatoes:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes make a great side dish for cheesy mashed potatoes. Simply toss the vegetables in olive oil and roast in the oven until golden brown and tender.
- Potato Salad: A classic potato salad with a tangy dressing is a perfect complement to cheesy mashed potatoes. Make a simple potato salad with boiled potatoes, diced onions, and a mixture of mayonnaise and mustard for a flavorful side dish.
- French Fries: French fries are a classic potato side dish that pairs well with cheesy mashed potatoes. Serve your fries hot and crispy with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Hasselback Potatoes: Hasselback potatoes are a fun and easy side dish that look impressive on the plate. Slice your potatoes thinly, but not all the way through, and brush with butter and herbs before baking until crispy.
- Grilled Potatoes: Grilled potatoes make a delicious and easy side dish for cheesy mashed potatoes. Simply slice your potatoes thinly and grill until tender and crispy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, adding cheese to mashed potatoes can take them from a simple side dish to a decadent and flavorful meal.
While cheddar is the best cheese for mashed potatoes due to its strong flavor, melting properties, and versatility, there are plenty of other cheeses that can add their own unique twist to the dish.
Here’s a quick recap of the 10 best cheeses for mashed potatoes:
- Cheddar
- Parmesan
- Gruyere
- Blue cheese
- Fontina
- Asiago
- Goat cheese
- Monterey Jack
- Smoked Gouda
- Feta
Each of these cheeses has its own distinct flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect combination. Whether you prefer a classic cheddar or a more unique option like blue cheese, adding cheese to mashed potatoes is a surefire way to take your side dish to the next level.
The Best Cheese for Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- Cheddar
- Parmesan
- White cheddar
- Cream cheese
- Goat cheese
- Asiago
- Smoked Gouda
- Monterey Jack
- Feta
- Parmesan and cheddar
Instructions
- Select your favorite kind of cheese from this article.
- Organize all the required ingredients.
- Prep your cheese mashed potatoes in 25 minutes or less.