Delectable Cream Cheese Smashed Potatoes
Indulge in the creamy, rich flavors of Delectable Cream Cheese Smashed Potatoes, a family favorite inspired by a PBS Test Kitchen show. This delightful dish combines tender, boiled potatoes with smooth cream cheese, fresh chives, and butter for a creamy texture and irresistible taste. It serves as a perfect base to customize with your favorite add-ins, such as crispy bacon or ranch seasoning. Experience the joy of preparing this simple yet satisfying side dish, ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Enjoy the heartwarming taste of home-cooked comfort food!
6
Servings
267
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Whole Potatoes
6-8 (Boiled until fork-tender)
Cream Cheese
8 ounces (Softened)
Butter
4 tablespoons (Softened)
Fresh Chives
4 tablespoons (Chopped)
Salt
2 tablespoons (For boiling and seasoning)
Water
1/2 cup (Reserved from boiling potatoes)
Instructions
1
Begin by boiling the whole potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2
Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the boiling water and let them sit for a few minutes to dry. Be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the potato water for later use.
3
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, butter, fresh chives, and the reserved 1/2 cup of potato water. Using a hand mixer, blend until smooth and creamy.
4
Take the dried potatoes and transfer them to a large bowl. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently smash the potatoes until they break open into chunks—be careful not to mash them completely.
5
Fold the cream cheese mixture into the smashed potatoes until they are well combined, but still retain some texture.
6
Taste the mixture and season with additional salt or your choice of spices as necessary, adjusting for personal preference.
7
Serve warm, garnished with more fresh chives or your favorite toppings.
Nutrition Information
17g
Fat
27g
Carbs
6g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Delectable Cream Cheese Smashed Potatoes?
They are a rich and creamy side dish made by folding a blend of cream cheese, butter, and chives into boiled potatoes that have been gently smashed into chunks.
What was the inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by a show from the PBS Test Kitchen.
How long should I boil the potatoes?
You should boil the whole potatoes for approximately 15 to 20 minutes until they are fork-tender.
Why do I need to reserve potato water?
Reserving 1/2 cup of the potato water is essential for blending with the cream cheese and butter to create a smooth, creamy mixture that binds the dish together.
What is the difference between smashed and mashed potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are gently broken into chunks to retain texture, while mashed potatoes are typically beaten until they are completely smooth and uniform.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 267 calories.
How much fat is in one serving of these potatoes?
There are 17 grams of fat per serving.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
Each serving contains 27 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in this dish?
There are 6 grams of protein per serving.
Can I add bacon to this recipe?
Yes, crispy bacon is a recommended add-in to enhance the flavor and add a crunchy texture.
Is it okay to use ranch seasoning?
Absolutely, ranch seasoning is a great way to customize the flavor of these smashed potatoes.
What ingredients are needed for the cream cheese mixture?
The mixture consists of 8 ounces of cream cheese, 4 tablespoons of butter, 4 tablespoons of fresh chives, and 1/2 cup of reserved potato water.
Should the potatoes be peeled before boiling?
The recipe calls for whole potatoes; leaving the skins on provides a rustic texture and additional nutrients.
How do I ensure the cream cheese mixture is smooth?
Use a hand mixer to blend the softened cream cheese, butter, and other ingredients until the consistency is smooth and creamy.
What tool is best for smashing the potatoes?
A spatula or a wooden spoon is ideal for gently breaking the potatoes into chunks without over-processing them.
Can I use dried chives instead of fresh?
While fresh chives are preferred for flavor, you can use dried chives as a substitute if fresh ones are unavailable.
How much salt is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of salt, intended for both the boiling water and final seasoning to taste.
How should I store leftover smashed potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
What is the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a small splash of milk or water if needed to restore the creamy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, with only 6 ingredients and simple instructions, it is considered an easy cooking recipe.
Can I use a food processor to mix the ingredients?
You can use a food processor for the cream cheese mixture, but do not use it on the potatoes themselves as it will make them gummy.
What type of potatoes should I use?
The recipe specifies whole potatoes; varieties like Yukon Gold or Red potatoes work exceptionally well for smashing.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, the base recipe is vegetarian. Ensure any optional add-ins like bacon are excluded to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can attempt a dairy-free version by substituting the cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.
How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming too dry?
Folding in the cream cheese mixture while the potatoes are still warm and using the reserved potato water ensures they stay moist.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to taste the dish before adding more salt at the end.
What can I serve these potatoes with?
These potatoes pair well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a hearty side for any family dinner.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe consists of 6 main ingredients: potatoes, cream cheese, butter, chives, salt, and water.
Can I freeze these smashed potatoes?
Freezing is possible, but the texture of the cream cheese and potatoes may change slightly upon thawing; it is best enjoyed fresh.