What makes the perfect comfort food side dish? For me, it’s all about creamy mashed potatoes loaded with cream cheese and fresh parsley. This easy homemade recipe is a weeknight dinner staple, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time. Save this idea for a quick family favorite to enjoy anytime.

mashed potatoes with cream cheese in a bowl and on the side, topped with parsley

Introduction

Mashed potatoes with cream cheese in a bowl and on the side, topped with parsley, is a dish that embodies the perfect blend of comfort food and elegance. This recipe is a testament to the magic that happens when everyday ingredients are combined with a bit of creativity, resulting in a dish that is both easy to make and packed with flavor. The addition of cream cheese brings a richness and depth to the traditional mashed potatoes, while the parsley adds a fresh and vibrant note. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to elevate your weeknight meals or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of mashed potatoes, cream cheese, and parsley creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is both comforting and refined. The ingredients are also easily accessible, making this dish a practical choice for any occasion.
Ease of preparation: This recipe is remarkably easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort and time. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple to work with, making it a great option for busy home cooks.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its creamy texture and fresh flavor. The presentation, with the cream cheese on the side and the parsley on top, adds a touch of elegance that belies the ease of preparation.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe are potatoes, cream cheese, butter, milk, salt, and parsley. The potatoes provide a sturdy base for the dish, while the cream cheese adds a rich and creamy element. The butter and milk help to create a smooth and velvety texture, and the salt enhances the flavor of the potatoes. Finally, the parsley adds a fresh and herbaceous note that complements the other ingredients perfectly. For practical substitutions, you can use low-fat cream cheese or substitute the parsley with chives or dill.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by washing and peeling the potatoes, then chopping them into large chunks. Place the potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 2: While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the cream cheese mixture. In a small bowl, soften the cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for 30 minutes. Then, add the softened cream cheese to a mixing bowl and beat it with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Add the butter, salt, and milk, and mix until well combined.
Step 3: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot. Add the cream cheese mixture to the potatoes and mash everything together with a potato masher or a fork until the potatoes are smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 4: To serve, transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and top with additional cream cheese on the side. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top of the potatoes and serve immediately.

Handy Tips

Use high-quality potatoes that are high in starch, like Russet or Idaho potatoes, for the fluffiest and most tender mashed potatoes.
Don’t over-mix the potatoes, as this can make them gluey and unappetizing.
Experiment with different types of milk, such as almond or soy milk, for a non-dairy version of the recipe.

Heat Control

When cooking the potatoes, it’s essential to monitor the heat to ensure that they cook evenly and don’t become overcooked or mushy. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. For the cream cheese mixture, you can soften the cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for 30 minutes or by microwaving it for 10-15 seconds.

Crunch Factor

The texture of the mashed potatoes should be smooth and creamy, with a slight crunch from the parsley on top. To achieve this, don’t over-mix the potatoes, and add the parsley just before serving. You can also add some crunchy elements, like chopped nuts or crispy bacon, to the top of the potatoes for added texture and flavor.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Use a ricer or food mill to mash the potatoes for an extra-smooth and creamy texture.
Add some grated cheese, like Parmesan or cheddar, to the potatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
Experiment with different types of potatoes, like sweet potatoes or Yukon golds, for a unique flavor and texture.

Storage Tips

Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat the mashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore their creamy texture.
Freeze the mashed potatoes for up to 2 months, then thaw and reheat as needed.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you want to give this dish as a gift, consider packaging it in a decorative bowl or container, topped with a sprinkle of parsley and a dollop of cream cheese on the side. You can also add some crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete gift. Wrap the bowl in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and tie with a ribbon or twine for a beautiful and elegant presentation.

Flavor Variations

Garlic and herb: Add some minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, to the potatoes for a savory and aromatic flavor.
Spicy: Add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the potatoes for a spicy kick.
Smoky: Add some smoked paprika or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the potatoes for a smoky and complex flavor.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the potatoes are too gluey or sticky, try adding a little more milk or cream to restore their creamy texture. If they’re too dry, try adding a little more butter or cream cheese.
Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have cream cheese, you can substitute it with sour cream or Greek yogurt. If you don’t have parsley, you can substitute it with chives or dill.
Over/undercooking signs: If the potatoes are undercooked, they’ll be firm and waxy in the center. If they’re overcooked, they’ll be mushy and falling apart. Adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve the perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the mashed potatoes for up to 2 months, then thaw and reheat as needed.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just adjust the cooking time and ingredient quantities as needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mashed potatoes with cream cheese in a bowl and on the side, topped with parsley, is a dish that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its creamy texture, fresh flavor, and elegant presentation, it’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight meals to special occasions. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to make the recipe your own, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!

Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Parsley