Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes

Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes Recipe - Delicious and Creamy

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 12 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes is a delicious and creamy twist on the classic mashed potatoes recipe. The addition of cream cheese and chives adds a rich and flavorful element to this comforting side dish.

History

Mashed potatoes have been a staple in many households for centuries, with variations of the recipe being passed down through generations. The addition of cream cheese and chives to mashed potatoes is a modern twist that adds a unique and delicious flavor profile to this traditional dish.

Ingredients

4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
0.5 cup cream cheese
0.33 cup snipped fresh chives
0.33 cup milk
1 tsp salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

How to prepare

In a medium saucepan, cook potatoes in 2 inches of boiling water, covered, for about 12 minutes or until tender. Then, drain thoroughly.
Mash the potatoes with an electric mixer or potato masher, and then mix in the cheese and chives.
Gradually mix in the milk mixture until the potatoes reach the desired consistency.
Season with salt and pepper.
Stir gently over low heat just until heated through.

Variations

Add roasted garlic for a more intense flavor.
Substitute sour cream for the cream cheese for a tangier taste.
Mix in cooked bacon bits for added crunch and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to thoroughly drain the cooked potatoes before mashing to prevent the mashed potatoes from becoming too watery.

- For a smoother consistency, use an electric mixer to mash the potatoes.

- Adjust the amount of milk added to achieve your desired consistency for the mashed potatoes.

- Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste, and adjust as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes pair well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a hearty stew.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the potatoes until tender before mashing.

- Use an electric mixer or potato masher to achieve a smooth consistency.

- Heat the mashed potatoes gently over low heat to ensure they are heated through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use red potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes instead of russet potatoes.

- Substitute green onions for chives if desired.

- Use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk for a richer dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes in a decorative serving bowl garnished with additional chives for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes with a glass of Chardonnay or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for a delicious meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes are a good source of Vitamin C, potassium, and calcium.

Alergens

Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes contain dairy (cream cheese) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes are a delicious and creamy side dish that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes are a delicious and creamy side dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With the addition of cream cheese and chives, this recipe adds a flavorful twist to traditional mashed potatoes that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite main course for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes. It was a crisp fall afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha for a cup of tea and some good conversation. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, she casually mentioned that she had a new recipe she wanted to try out for dinner that evening. She pulled out a well-worn recipe card from a drawer and handed it to me, a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

As I scanned the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but be intrigued by the combination of cream cheese and chives with the humble potato. It seemed like such a unique twist on a classic dish. Martha explained that she had come across the recipe in an old cookbook she had picked up at a yard sale years ago. She had made a few tweaks and adjustments over the years to suit her taste, and it had become one of her go-to side dishes.

After that fateful afternoon, I couldn't stop thinking about those Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes. I was determined to recreate the dish in my own kitchen and make it my own. I spent hours researching different recipes, experimenting with different ratios of cream cheese and chives, and finally, after several failed attempts, I landed on the perfect combination.

The key, I discovered, was to use just the right amount of cream cheese to achieve a creamy and luxurious texture without overpowering the delicate flavor of the chives. I also learned that the potatoes needed to be cooked just right – not too mushy, but not too firm either. It was a delicate balance that required patience and precision.

Over the years, I have made these Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes for countless family gatherings, holiday dinners, and impromptu gatherings with friends. Each time, I am met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I always smile and tell them that it's a family secret passed down through generations, but the truth is, it all started with that fateful afternoon in Martha's kitchen.

As I stand in my own kitchen now, preparing a batch of Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes for tonight's dinner, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia and gratitude. This recipe has become so much more than just a side dish – it is a reminder of the bonds of friendship, the joy of discovery, and the simple pleasures of good food shared with loved ones.

So as I take a bite of the creamy, flavorful potatoes, I offer a silent thank you to Martha and all the other friends and family members who have shared their recipes with me over the years. Without their generosity and inspiration, I would never have discovered the magic of Cream Cheese and Chive Mashed Potatoes. And for that, I am forever grateful.