Description
Cheesy, creamy mashed potatoes topped with a golden garlic parmesan potato gratin crust combine smooth, buttery mashed potatoes infused with cheddar cheese and a crispy, savory parmesan topping. This comforting side dish is perfect for holidays, family dinners, or anytime you want to elevate your potato game with simple ingredients and easy techniques.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Potatoes and Mash Base
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk, warmed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Garlic Parmesan Gratin Topping
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (optional)
- Salt, a pinch
- Freshly ground black pepper, a pinch
Optional Garnishes and Variations
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
- Bacon bits (optional)
- Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives (optional)
- Cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy kick (optional)
- Alternative cheeses: Gruyere, Mozzarella, or Pecorino Romano (optional)
- Plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheeses for vegan version (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and dice the russet potatoes into evenly sized chunks to ensure even cooking. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook until tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 15–20 minutes.
- Make the Mashed Potatoes: Drain the potatoes well, then return them to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Add softened butter, warm heavy cream (or milk), shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mash until silky smooth and creamy. Avoid overworking to keep the mash fluffy.
- Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Topping: In a small bowl, combine finely minced garlic with grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of salt and pepper, and optionally melted butter for extra richness. This mixture will create the crispy gratin topping.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer the mashed potatoes into a buttered baking dish and smooth the surface evenly. Sprinkle the garlic parmesan mixture generously over the top, ensuring full coverage.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until the topping is bubbling and golden brown. Watch closely in the last minutes to prevent burning and achieve a perfect crust.
Notes
- Use starchy russet potatoes for fluffy, creamy texture.
- Warm your dairy ingredients before mixing for smoother mashed potatoes.
- Do not skip the garlic parmesan topping—it adds essential savory flavor and crunch.
- Choose quality freshly grated Parmesan and sharp cheddar cheese for best taste and melting.
- Allow the gratin to rest a few minutes after baking to firm up before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg