Frequently Asked Questions
What are Deliciously Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes?
This is a rich and creamy side dish inspired by a recipe from Mormon Chic, known for its robust garlic flavor and smooth texture.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields a generous 14 servings, making it ideal for feeding a large crowd.
What are the main ingredients for these mashed potatoes?
The main ingredients include 5 lbs of potatoes, 1 beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, melted oleo (margarine), and softened cream cheese.
How do I prepare the potatoes for boiling?
Begin by cutting and peeling the potatoes, then place them in a large pot filled with cold water.
How long should I boil the potatoes?
Bring the pot to a gentle boil and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender.
What is the first step after draining the potatoes?
Return the drained potatoes to the pot and combine them with the beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, melted oleo, and softened cream cheese.
What equipment is needed to mash the potatoes?
You can use either a manual potato masher or an electric mixer to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
How can I make the mashed potatoes even fluffier?
For a fluffier result, you can choose to blend half of the potatoes at a time rather than mashing them all at once.
What temperature should the oven be for baking?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking the casserole.
How long does the potato casserole need to bake?
Bake the casserole for 45 minutes until it is heated through and the top is slightly golden.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes up to 3 days in advance.
How should I store the potatoes if I make them early?
Store the prepared potatoes in the refrigerator in a covered container or the casserole dish.
What should I do before baking pre-made potatoes?
Let the potatoes come to room temperature for about an hour before placing them in the oven to bake.
What if the potatoes look dry after being in the fridge?
If the potatoes appear dry after refrigeration, fluff them with a touch of milk before baking.
Is this recipe suitable for picky eaters?
Yes, the recipe notes that even pickiest eaters, including children, find these potatoes irresistible.
Is this recipe considered low protein?
Yes, it is categorized as a Low Protein dish with 3g of protein per serving.
How many calories are in one serving of these potatoes?
Each serving contains approximately 229 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 11 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 31 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much fiber is in the recipe?
Each serving provides about 2.5 grams of dietary fiber.
Should the cream cheese be cold or softened?
The cream cheese should be softened to ensure it blends smoothly into the potato mixture.
What kind of garlic is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder to provide a robust flavor.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, you should transfer the potatoes into a well-greased casserole dish before baking.
What is oleo?
Oleo is another term for margarine; this recipe uses 3 tablespoons of it, melted.
How do I know the potatoes are done boiling?
The potatoes are ready when they are fork-tender, meaning a fork slides in and out of them easily.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, there is no sugar listed in the nutritional information for this recipe.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of powder?
While the recipe specifies garlic powder, you could experiment with fresh garlic, though it may change the texture and intensity.
Why is an egg added to the mashed potatoes?
The beaten egg helps bind the mixture and contributes to the rich, fluffy texture of the baked casserole.
How much salt is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt.
What makes this a 'comfort food'?
The combination of buttery potatoes, cream cheese, and garlic creates a warm, satisfying, and rich dish traditional to comfort food cooking.