Creamy White Cheddar Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of these White Cheddar Mashed Potatoes, inspired by the beloved recipe from Red Lobster. These velvety potatoes combine the classic comfort of buttery mashed potatoes with the rich, sharp flavor of white cheddar cheese, creating a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. This easy-to-follow recipe makes a generous serving size, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can recreate this restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Potatoes
2 lbs (peeled and quartered)
Unsalted Butter
2 oz (room temperature)
Heavy Cream
1/3 cup (none)
Sour Cream
1/4 cup (none)
White Cheddar Cheese
4 oz (grated)
Salt
1 tsp (none)
White Pepper
1/2 tsp (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by placing the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot, and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
2
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, approximately 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander.
3
Using an electric mixer or a potato masher, blend the drained potatoes until they reach a smooth consistency. Avoid over-mixing to prevent them from becoming gummy.
4
With the mixer on low speed, gradually add in the room temperature butter and blend until it is fully incorporated.
5
Next, carefully pour in the heavy cream a little at a time, mixing well after each addition until the potatoes are creamy.
6
Add the sour cream and blend until smooth and well combined.
7
Finally, stir in the grated white cheddar cheese, salt, and white pepper, mixing until everything is evenly distributed and creamy.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Creamy White Cheddar Mashed Potatoes?
This is a rich and velvety side dish that combines buttery mashed potatoes with the sharp flavor of white cheddar cheese, inspired by Red Lobster.
What kind of potatoes are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 pounds of potatoes that are peeled and quartered before boiling.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 4 generous servings.
How long should I boil the potatoes?
Boil the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender.
What is the secret to making these potatoes creamy?
The combination of room temperature butter, heavy cream, and sour cream ensures a smooth and creamy texture.
How do I prevent the mashed potatoes from becoming gummy?
Avoid over-mixing the potatoes when using an electric mixer or masher to maintain the ideal consistency.
What type of cheese is used?
The recipe specifies 4 ounces of grated white cheddar cheese for a sharp and rich flavor.
Why should the butter be at room temperature?
Room temperature butter incorporates more easily into the warm potatoes without cooling them down too quickly.
Can I use black pepper instead of white pepper?
Yes, though white pepper is used to maintain the uniform white color of the mashed potatoes.
What is the role of sour cream in this recipe?
Sour cream adds a slight tang and contributes to the overall smooth and creamy texture.
How much heavy cream is required?
You will need 1/3 cup of heavy cream, added gradually to achieve the right consistency.
Should I start the potatoes in cold or boiling water?
Always start by covering the potatoes with cold water and then bringing them to a boil for even cooking.
What equipment is needed to mash the potatoes?
You can use either an electric mixer on low speed or a traditional potato masher.
Is this recipe difficult to make?
No, it is an easy-to-follow recipe with simple steps suitable for home cooks.
How much butter is needed?
The recipe requires 2 ounces of unsalted butter.
Can I use salted butter?
You can, but you should adjust the amount of added salt to prevent the dish from becoming too salty.
When should I add the cheese?
Stir in the grated white cheddar cheese at the very end until it is evenly distributed and melted.
How much salt is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt, or to taste.
Can these potatoes be served at special occasions?
Yes, their rich flavor and restaurant-inspired quality make them perfect for holiday dinners and special events.
Should the potatoes be peeled?
Yes, for the smoothest texture, the potatoes should be peeled and quartered.
How much sour cream should I use?
Use 1/4 cup of sour cream to add creaminess and depth.
What is the preparation for the cheese?
The white cheddar cheese should be grated before being stirred into the potatoes.
Does this recipe include garlic?
This specific version focuses on white cheddar and cream, but you could add garlic if desired.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized under Potato side dishes.
Can I make a larger batch?
Yes, you can double or triple the ingredients to serve more people.
How do I know when the potatoes are done boiling?
They are done when they are fork-tender, meaning a fork slides in and out easily.
Is white cheddar essential?
White cheddar provides a specific sharp flavor and keeps the potatoes white, but yellow cheddar can be used as a substitute.
What is the amount of white pepper?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of white pepper.
Should I drain the potatoes before mashing?
Yes, drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander to ensure they don't become watery.
Is this similar to the Red Lobster recipe?
Yes, this recipe is specifically inspired by the flavor profile of Red Lobster's mashed potatoes.