Party Mashed Potatoes

If you’ve been tasked with bringing a creative side dish to your next potluck party, there’s no better recipe than these party mashed potatoes. With a combination of creamy texture from mashed potatoes, cheesy flavor from cheddar cheese and tanginess from sour cream and cream cheese, these potatoes are packed with complex, layered flavors that are hearty and comforting. Breadcrumbs offer a crunchy topping that’s golden and crispy, and minced chives add bright zest. Serve them as an easy side dish, or make them the star of the show by adding crumbled bacon.

Party Mashed Potato Ingredients

• Mashed potatoes or prepared instant potatoes: Creamy, soft and savory mashed potatoes are easy to dress up with different toppings, such as cheese, sour cream and chives.
• Sour cream: Sour cream is super tangy, so it adds bold flavor to upgrade these otherwise mild mashed potatoes.
• Cream cheese: Cool and refreshing, cream cheese helps bulk up mashed potatoes with a creamy texture and subtle sweetness.
• Chives: Chopped chives make a yummy topping for mild potatoes because they add bright color and oniony flavor.
• Garlic powder: Garlic powder is an important dried spice to keep in your spice cabinet because it adds bold, earthy flavor that’s slightly spicy and sweet at the same time.
• Bread crumbs: In this recipe, breadcrumbs combine with butter to create a crunchy, rich topping that gets golden and crispy when baked in the oven.
• Butter: Rich and savory, butter melts into the potatoes as they cook, leaving behind a crunchy topping with a rich, moist layer underneath.
• Cheddar cheese: Savory, sharp and tangy, cheddar cheese is an easy way to elevate party mashed potatoes with extra flavor and texture.

Directions 

Step 1: Mix and season the potatoes

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In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, sour cream, cream cheese, chives and garlic powder. Turn the potatoes into a greased two quart casserole. Combine the bread crumbs with butter and sprinkle over the potatoes.

Step 2: Bake and serve

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Bake at 350° F for 50 to 60 minutes. Top with the cheese and serve immediately.

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Party Mashed Potato Variations

• Add bacon: Only one thing could make these savory mashed potatoes even more flavorful—a heaping pile of crumbled bacon! Smoky and salty, crumbled bacon adds both texture and flavor.
• Add jalapenos: If you like a bit of spice, garnish these potatoes with sliced jalapeno. They’re crunchy and vegetal with bold heat that pairs perfectly with potatoes and cheddar cheese.

How to Store Party Mashed Potatoes

Party mashed potatoes are best enjoyed right away, but they can certainly be stored in the refrigerator if you have any leftovers. First let the potatoes come to room temperature after cooking, then cover the dish with plastic wrap. Place the leftovers in the refrigerator and store for two to four days.

Can you make party mashed potatoes ahead of time? 

You can absolutely prepare these potatoes in advance, just don’t bake them until before you’re ready to serve. Prepare the potatoes as outlined in step one, then cover them with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, place the potatoes in the oven and carry on with the recipe as outlined in step 2.

Party Mashed Potatoes Tips

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What should I serve these with?

This is a fantastic side dish that’s delightfully hearty and filling. It’s an easy option to bring to a tailgate or barbecue party, and it pairs nicely with chicken, beef or pulled pork. It’s so versatile, you could serve it with hamburgers, meatloaf or roasted chicken thighs.

What else can I use instant potatoes for?

Instant potatoes are a smart ingredient to keep on hand when you want to make a quick side dish. They’re quick, affordable and easy to prepare. If you’re not sure what to do with them, try one of these recipes to make instant mashed potatoes better.

What type of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?

The best potatoes for mashed potatoes are the starchy varieties, like russet, Idaho or Yukon. The starchiness in the potato lends itself to an airy, fluffy texture that’s perfect for this beloved comfort food.