why make this recipe

Cheesy Smashed Potatoes are the perfect comfort food. They combine the creaminess of butter and cheese with the satisfying texture of smashed potatoes. This dish is easy to make and is great for family dinners or casual gatherings. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy potatoes with extra flavor and richness, making it a favorite for both kids and adults alike.

how to make Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

Ingredients:

12 medium potatoes
50 grams butter (1.7 oz)
100 grams cheddar cheese (3.5 oz)
80 ml heavy cream (1/3 cup)
1 spring onion (green onion)
Sea salt (to taste)
Pepper (to taste)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 180° C / 355°F.
Wash the potatoes thoroughly.
Place the potatoes in a pot. Cover them with cold water and bring to a boil.
When the water is boiling, add a pinch of sea salt.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer.
Cook the potatoes until tender. This should take about 10-15 minutes, depending on their size.
Use a small piece of butter (or muffin liners) in each hole and top with a cooked potato.
Smash each potato flat using the bottom of a small glass.
Top them with a knob of butter, a sprinkle of sea salt, shredded cheddar, and a splash of cream.
Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly and golden, about 18-20 minutes.
Let them set for 5 minutes in the pan.
Remove carefully and top with chopped fresh spring onion (or chives) and more sea salt.
Serve immediately.

how to serve Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

Cheesy Smashed Potatoes are best served hot right out of the oven. They make an excellent side dish for meats like chicken, beef, or pork. You can also enjoy them as a stand-alone snack or light meal. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can enhance the flavor and presentation.

how to store Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

If you have leftovers, let them cool down to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at a low temperature or use a microwave until warmed through.

tips to make Cheesy Smashed Potatoes

Use potatoes that are uniform in size for even cooking.
Feel free to mix different types of cheeses for varied flavors.
Make sure the potatoes are well-seasoned with salt to enhance their taste.
Don’t over-simmer the potatoes; they should be soft but not falling apart.
Experiment with toppings like cooked bacon bits or different herbs for a twist!

variation

You can add roasted garlic for a deeper flavor or even some crispy bacon bits to give it a savory crunch. Adding different herbs can also change the flavor profile, making these potatoes unique every time you make them.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes instead of fresh ones?
While you can use instant mashed potatoes, the texture and flavor will be different. Fresh potatoes offer a creamy texture and taste that instant versions usually lack.

2. Are Cheesy Smashed Potatoes gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it uses simple ingredients that don’t contain gluten.

3. Can I make Cheesy Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the smashed potatoes and keep them in the refrigerator. Just bake them before serving for that fresh, warm taste.