Welcome, friends! As Thanksgiving approaches, I can’t help but reminisce about the big family gatherings filled with laughter, love, and, of course, delicious food. One of the things that always stands out is the amazing *thanksgiving side dishes for a crowd*. There’s just something magical about a warm, cheesy potato dish that everyone can dig into. It brings people together, and let’s be honest, what’s a holiday meal without those comforting sides? This recipe for mashed cheesy potatoes is not only easy to whip up, but it’s also a total crowd-pleaser! Trust me, your guests will be raving about it long after the last bite. Let’s dive into this delightful dish!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create the most scrumptious cheesy mashed potatoes that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
- 4 cups of diced potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creamy texture. Make sure they’re diced into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- 1 cup of milk: Whole milk works best here for that rich creaminess, but you can substitute with half-and-half if you want to take it up a notch.
- 1/2 cup of butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for controlling the salt level. It adds a velvety richness that you’ll absolutely love!
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that really pops. You can also mix in some mozzarella for extra gooeyness!
- 1/4 cup of sour cream: This gives a delightful tang and makes the potatoes extra creamy. You could even use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Salt to taste: A pinch or two enhances all the flavors—don’t skip this step!
- Pepper to taste: Freshly ground black pepper brings just the right amount of warmth to the dish.
- 1/4 cup of chopped green onions: These add a fresh crunch and a beautiful pop of color. You can use chives too if you prefer!
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Side Dishes for a Crowd
Alright, let’s get cooking! This cheesy mashed potato dish is super straightforward and perfect for feeding a large group. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a warm, comforting side dish that will steal the show at your Thanksgiving table.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key for getting that lovely golden top on your cheesy potatoes.
- Next, grab a large pot and fill it with water. Bring it to a boil, then add in the diced potatoes. Boil them until they’re tender—about 15-20 minutes should do the trick!
- Once the potatoes are fork-tender, drain them in a colander and return them to the pot. You want to keep them warm while you mix in all that deliciousness.
- Now, add in the butter, milk, sour cream, and season with salt and pepper. Mash everything together until creamy and smooth. You want to channel your inner potato artist here!
- Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions. Oh wow, the aroma is heavenly already!
- Transfer the creamy mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until it’s heated through and the top is slightly golden.
And just like that, you’re on your way to serving up the ultimate Thanksgiving side dish that everyone will be talking about! Enjoy the deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy holiday cooks!
- Crowd-pleasing flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Comforting and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with turkey and other dishes.
- Simple to scale up for larger gatherings, so you never run out!
- Make-ahead friendly—prep it a day in advance and just bake before serving!
Tips for Success
To ensure your cheesy mashed potatoes turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips! First, make sure to cut your diced potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Don’t rush the boiling—let them get nice and tender before draining. Also, for extra flavor, consider adding a clove or two of roasted garlic to the mix when mashing; it elevates the dish beautifully! If you want an even creamier texture, feel free to add a splash more milk or sour cream as you mash. And remember, taste as you go, adjusting the salt and pepper to your liking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), you can store your cheesy mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let them cool completely before sealing them up. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the potatoes to a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheat—just add a splash of milk to keep them creamy!
FAQ Section
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Absolutely! Sweet potatoes bring a lovely sweetness and vibrant color to the dish. Just keep in mind they may need a slightly different cooking time.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese? If cheddar isn’t your thing, feel free to experiment with other cheeses! Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses can work beautifully.
Can I make this dish vegan? Yes! Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and a vegan cheese alternative. You’ll still get that creamy texture and delicious flavor!
How do I serve these cheesy mashed potatoes? They pair wonderfully with turkey, ham, or any protein. You can even serve them with a sprinkle of additional green onions or fresh herbs on top for a pop of color!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Definitely! Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve—so convenient for holiday gatherings!
Nutritional Information Section
Each serving of these cheesy mashed potatoes is estimated to contain around 250 calories, with 12g of fat and 6g of protein. You’ll also get about 30g of carbohydrates and 2g of fiber. Keep in mind these values can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes. But trust me, every bite is worth it for that creamy, comforting goodness!
Print
Thanksgiving Side Dishes for a Crowd: 5 Cheesy Treats
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving side dish that complements your holiday meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of diced potatoes
- 1 cup of milk
- 1/2 cup of butter
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup of sour cream
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, boil the diced potatoes until tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add butter, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth.
- Fold in cheddar cheese and green onions.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and slightly golden on top.
Notes
- You can prepare this dish a day in advance and reheat it before serving.
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: thanksgiving side dishes for a crowd
