Southern Mash

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southern Mash is everything you love about mashed potatoes—soft, fluffy, and full of flavor—but with a decadent twist. The addition of cream cheese, butter, and garlic creates a velvety smooth texture and an irresistible richness that makes these mashed potatoes stand out. They’re perfect for holiday meals, barbecues, or as a side dish to any comfort food. Easy to make and packed with flavor, Southern Mash is a must-try recipe that will elevate your mashed potatoes to new heights.

Ingredients

• 4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup milk (or more for desired consistency)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Boil the potatoes: Place the peeled and chopped potatoes into a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
2. Prepare the garlic: While the potatoes are cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Mash the potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
4. Mix in the ingredients: Add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, the remaining butter, and the cooked garlic to the mashed potatoes. Stir until the butter and cream cheese are fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Gradually add milk until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Season: Season the mashed potatoes with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish and serve: Transfer the Southern Mash to a serving dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Total time: 45 minutes
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Add bacon: For an extra savory flavor, crumble crispy bacon over the top of the mashed potatoes, or mix it into the mashed potatoes.
• Herbed version: Add fresh herbs like chives, rosemary, or thyme to the mashed potatoes for a fragrant twist.
• Cheese variations: Swap the cheddar cheese for other types of cheese such as gouda, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
• Spicy version: Mix in a diced jalapeño or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Southern Mash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the mashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra milk or butter to maintain their creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make Southern Mash ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mashed potatoes a day ahead. Just store them in the refrigerator and reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little milk or butter as needed to restore their creaminess.

Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?

Russet potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes because they have a high starch content and create a creamy texture. However, you can also use Yukon gold potatoes for a buttery flavor, or red potatoes for a slightly firmer texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegan version by swapping the butter, cream cheese, and sour cream for dairy-free alternatives. Use plant-based butter, vegan cream cheese, and a dairy-free sour cream substitute for the best results.

Can I freeze Southern Mash?

Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes. Let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

How can I make the mashed potatoes more garlicky?

For a stronger garlic flavor, you can increase the amount of garlic in the recipe or add roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter garlic taste.

Conclusion

Southern Mash is the ultimate comfort food that takes mashed potatoes to the next level. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and perfect blend of garlic, cream cheese, and butter, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next dinner gathering. Whether you’re serving it with roast chicken, steak, or a vegetable dish, Southern Mash is a satisfying and delicious side that will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

Southern Mash

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Southern Mash is a creamy, rich, and flavorful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, made with cream cheese, butter, garlic, and a variety of optional toppings like cheese and green onions. It’s a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings
• Category: Side dish
• Method: Boiling, Mashing
• Cuisine: Southern
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1. 4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
2. 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
3. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
4. 1/2 cup sour cream
5. 3 cloves garlic, minced
6. 1/2 cup milk (or more for desired consistency)
7. Salt and pepper, to taste
8. 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
9. 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
10. 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)

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Instructions

Boil the potatoes: Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until fork-tender.

1. Prepare the garlic: While the potatoes cook, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat.
2. Mash the potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and return to the pot. Mash until smooth and creamy.
3. Mix in the ingredients: Add the cream cheese, sour cream, remaining butter, and garlic to the mashed potatoes. Stir until fully incorporated, adding milk gradually until desired consistency is reached.
4. Season: Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish and serve: Transfer to a serving dish and top with cheddar cheese and chopped green onions (optional). Serve warm.

Notes

• For added flavor, crumble crispy bacon on top or mix it into the mashed potatoes.
• Fresh herbs like chives, rosemary, or thyme can be added for an extra fragrant touch.
• For a spicier version, add diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the mixture.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 45mg