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These smoky mashed potatoes are a step up from your everyday mash. Smoked cheddar cheese melts right into the potatoes, giving them a bold, savory flavor that pairs especially well with steak, pork roast, or even grilled chicken.
They’re simple to make but still special enough for a holiday dinner. Try them with a pat of butter and some fresh parsley, or stir in a little roasted garlic to take them over the top.
What You’ll Like About This Dish
Smoky and rich. Smoked cheddar cheese adds bold, savory flavor you won’t get from regular cheese.
Simple to make. Just a few ingredients and basic mashed potato steps.
Versatile pairing. Delicious with beef, pork, poultry, or meatless mains.
Make it your own. Add garlic, herbs, or other mix-ins to suit your meal.
Ingredient Notes
- Russet potatoes: Their starchy texture makes for fluffy, smooth mashed potatoes.
- Smoked cheddar: Bold, smoky flavor sets these apart—use sharp for extra punch.
- Milk: Heated milk blends smoothly into the potatoes.
- Butter: Adds richness and classic mashed potato flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste; adjust depending on the saltiness of your cheese.
- Garnish: Fresh parsley or chives brighten the dish and add color.
Steps to Make Smoked Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
- Peel and cut the potatoes into chunks.
- Boil the potatoes until fork-tender, then drain well.
- Mash the hot potatoes with the shredded smoked cheddar.
- Heat the milk and butter together until warm.
- Add the warm milk mixture, salt, and pepper to the potatoes.
- Mash or beat until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and garnish before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use hot milk and butter to keep the potatoes warm and smooth.
- Drain the potatoes thoroughly before mashing to prevent watery mash.
- For extra flavor, add roasted garlic or a small amount of sour cream.
- If the smoked cheddar is very sharp, reduce added salt slightly.
Recipe Variations
- Garlic cheddar mash. Add roasted garlic or a dash of garlic powder to the mix.
- Chive and cheddar. Stir in a few tablespoons of chopped chives.
- Creamier version. Use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.
- Smoked Gouda option. Replace cheddar with smoked Gouda for a milder smoky flavor.
- Loaded mashed potatoes. Add chopped bacon and green onions.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled or pan-seared steak.
- Serve alongside roasted pork loin or chops.
- Spoon into a bowl and top with chives and extra cheese.
- Use as a base for a savory mushroom or beef gravy.
How to Store
Refrigerate: Transfer leftover mashed potatoes to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen if needed.
Freeze: Freeze mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
These mashed potatoes with kale are another tasty option or try these light garlic and olive oil mashed potatoes.
Smoked Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds potatoes, russet or baking potatoes
- 2 tbsp kosher salt (for the potato cooking water)
- ¾ cup milk, or as needed
- 4 tbsp butter
- 8 ounces shredded smoked cheddar cheese
- Fine salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnish: fresh chopped parsley or chives (optional)
Recommended Equipment
Instructions
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into 2-inch pieces.2 1/2 pounds potatoes (russet or baking potatoes)
- Put the potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with water. Add 2 tablespoons of kosher salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cover, reduce the heat to medium, and boil for about 20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender. Drain well and transfer to a large bowl.2 tbsp kosher salt (for the potato cooking water)
- Meanwhile, combine the milk and butter in a saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer.3/4 cup milk (or as needed) | 4 tbsp butter
- Put the hot drained potatoes through a ricer or mash them and add the hot milk and butter mixture. Stir in the shredded cheese. Add more warm milk if necessary and mix until smooth. Season with fine salt and pepper, to taste.8 ounces shredded smoked cheddar cheese | Freshly ground black pepper (to taste) | Fine salt (to taste)
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives, if desired.Garnish: fresh chopped parsley or chives (optional)
Nutrition
Disclaimer:
Our nutritional information is based on a third-party application that analyzes the ingredients list to determine the values. The information is meant to be helpful, but should be considered an estimate. Values may differ depending on measurements, brands, serving variations, and database availability.
