Twice-Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Indulging in comfort food during the holiday season often brings to mind the delightful flavors of rich, creamy mashed potatoes, and this recipe for Twice-Baked Mashed Potatoes, inspired by a treasured find in Southern Living Favorites, is no exception. Not only does this dish encapsulate the warm essence of family gatherings and festive meals, but it also offers a surprisingly easy method to elevate frozen mashed potatoes into a gourmet side dish that pairs beautifully with pork and other proteins. Let’s explore the details of this deliciously cheesy and satisfying recipe.
Description
Once skeptical about utilizing frozen mashed potatoes, I discovered that they can indeed transform into something truly delightful. With the addition of cream cheese, sour cream, crispy bacon, and fresh chives, these Twice-Baked Mashed Potatoes become a mouthwatering dish that could steal the spotlight at any holiday table. Whether served during Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any family gathering, this recipe allows for creativity, as reduced-fat products can easily be substituted without sacrificing flavor.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 252.2 |
| Total Fat | 16.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Cholesterol | 46.4 mg |
| Sodium | 592.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.7 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Protein | 6.6 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mashed potatoes | 1 package |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz |
| Sour cream | ½ cup |
| Fresh chives | ¼ cup (chopped) |
| Bacon | 4 strips (cooked and crumbled) |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Cheddar cheese | ½ cup (shredded) |
Instructions
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Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Begin by preparing the frozen mashed potatoes according to the package directions, allowing them to thaw and reach the desired consistency. This step sets the foundation for the dish, ensuring a creamy texture that will be enhanced with the following ingredients.
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Mix in the Cream Cheese and Other Ingredients: Once the mashed potatoes are ready, transfer them to a mixing bowl. Stir in the cream cheese and sour cream, which will provide a luscious creaminess that elevates the overall flavor profile. Add the chopped fresh chives, crumbled bacon, and salt to the mixture, combining everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
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Choose Your Baking Dish: While the original recipe suggests dividing the mixture evenly among six 6-ounce lightly greased ramekins or custard cups, I personally prefer to prepare it in a single, larger baking dish. This approach allows for easy serving and showcases the beautiful layers of flavor. Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish of your choice to prevent sticking.
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Assemble the Dish: Transfer the creamy mashed potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. The anticipation builds as you prepare to bake this delightful concoction, knowing that each scoop will deliver layers of creamy goodness and savory bites.
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Sprinkle with Cheddar Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the potato mixture. This step not only adds a delightful cheesy crust but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish, creating a golden-brown layer that is simply irresistible.
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Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the baking dish inside. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the dish is thoroughly heated and the cheese has melted into a bubbly, golden layer on top. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning, as every oven varies slightly in heat distribution.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the Twice-Baked Mashed Potatoes are out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly before serving. Scoop generous portions onto plates, allowing the layers of creamy potatoes and melted cheese to shine. Pair this dish alongside your favorite pork roast or any holiday entrée, and watch as it becomes a star at your dining table.
Tips and Variations
- Substitutions: Feel free to use reduced-fat versions of cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter dish without compromising flavor.
- Herb Infusions: Consider adding other herbs such as parsley or thyme for an aromatic twist that complements the bacon and cheese.
- Garnishing: Top with additional crispy bacon or a sprinkle of chives before serving for an extra pop of flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This Twice-Baked Mashed Potatoes recipe encapsulates the essence of hearty comfort food while providing a simple yet sophisticated side that complements a variety of main dishes. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and crispy cheese topping, it’s sure to impress both family and guests alike, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected ingredients can yield the most delightful results. Enjoy creating this dish for your next gathering, and relish in the joy of sharing comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.
