If you’re a fan of creamy comfort food with a unique twist, you’re in for a treat with these Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes. They bring together the cozy familiarity of classic mashed potatoes and the sophisticated, smoky depth of Gouda in a dish that’s sure to be the star of your dinner table. Imagine buttery Yukon Golds mingling with silky sour cream and a generous handful of gooey, melted cheese—every bite feels special, whether it’s the holidays or just a weeknight dinner in need of a little extra love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes shine because each ingredient, while straightforward, adds something crucial. From the naturally buttery potatoes to that unmistakable smoked cheese, you’re looking at just a handful of pantry staples coming together to create magic.
- Yukon Gold potatoes (2 pounds, peeled and cut into chunks): Their naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture make the mash irresistibly rich.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Melted in while hot, it gives the potatoes luxurious silkiness.
- Whole milk (1/2 cup, warmed): Warm milk helps the mash stay light and fluffy without seizing up.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Brings tang and extra creaminess, balancing the richness.
- Smoked Gouda cheese (1 cup, shredded): The hero ingredient, lending deep, smoky, cheesy flavor to every spoonful.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle savory notes that complement the Gouda.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for spotlighting all those delicious flavors.
- Chopped chives (for garnish, optional): A sprinkle adds freshness and color—optional, but highly recommended!
How to Make Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by placing your peeled and chunked Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and toss in a generous pinch of salt to ensure they draw flavor right from the start. Bring the pot up to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until a fork slides through a potato chunk with zero resistance. Properly cooked potatoes are key for the ultimate creamy consistency.
Step 2: Drain and Return to Pot
Once the potatoes are appropriately tender, drain them well. Don’t let any water hang around, or your mash might turn out runny. Return the potatoes to the hot pot, which helps evaporate any leftover steam, ensuring your Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes aren’t watery.
Step 3: Add the Good Stuff
Drop in the butter, then pour in the warmed milk and scoop in the sour cream. Sprinkle in the garlic powder. Start mashing while everything is hot so the dairy melts in seamlessly. You can use a classic potato masher for a more rustic feel or work with an electric mixer if you want them ultra-silky. This is where all the creaminess builds up!
Step 4: Stir in the Smoked Gouda
This is the moment that takes your mashed potatoes from yummy to unforgettable. Add your shredded smoked Gouda to the warm potato mixture, stirring thoroughly until every bit is melted and infused throughout. The cheese doesn’t just bring flavor—it also makes the whole dish gooey and smooth.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste the potatoes and add salt and black pepper to make those flavors sing. For the finale, scoop the mash into your favorite serving bowl and (if you’re feeling fancy) scatter chopped chives on top for a burst of color. Serve your Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes warm and watch them disappear!
How to Serve Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes
Garnishes
The right garnish turns a humble bowl of mash into something restaurant-worthy. Chopped chives are simple but bring freshness and color, while a pinch of smoked paprika or crumbled bacon can intensify the smokiness. Even a crack of black pepper on top can add the perfect finishing touch to these Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes.
Side Dishes
Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes deserve a spot alongside all your favorites. Think classic roasted or grilled meats like steak, pork chops, or turkey. They’re also dreamy under saucy entrees—imagine a decadent mushroom gravy or braised short ribs. For a vegetarian feast, serve them with roasted root veggies or sautéed greens.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, try portioning these potatoes into ramekins and topping them with a little extra cheese before broiling until bubbly. Or pile them high in a family-style bowl and swirl in roasted garlic or caramelized onions. Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes also make a unique filling for potato skins or as the topping for a modern twist on shepherd’s pie.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes are a meal prep dream. Cool them to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll stay delicious for up to three days—just right for quick lunches or comforting leftovers.
Freezing
If you want to get ahead for holiday hosting, these potatoes freeze surprisingly well. Spoon them into a freezer-safe bag or container, flattening out for easy thawing, and store for up to one month. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge before planning to reheat.
Reheating
When it’s time to warm up your Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore their creamy texture. Stir frequently until hot. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between so everything heats evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! While Yukon Golds are the gold standard for their creamy, buttery flavor, russets also work well for fluffy mashed potatoes. Just note russets may need a little more milk and butter for rich texture.
Is it possible to use a different cheese?
Yes, you can swap in sharp cheddar or a bit of smoked cheddar, but smoked Gouda really delivers the best velvety texture and robust smoky flavor. Try half-and-half if you want to experiment!
How do I add even more smoky flavor?
Add a pinch of smoked paprika when stirring in the cheese, or top your Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes with crumbled cooked bacon for an unbeatable smoky boost.
Can I make these mashed potatoes dairy-free?
It’s definitely possible! Use plant-based butter, dairy-free sour cream, your favorite vegan milk, and a vegan smoked cheese. The flavor may change, but you’ll get plenty of richness with the right swaps.
How far in advance can I prepare Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes?
These mashed potatoes can be made a day ahead. Store them in an oven-safe dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat in a 325°F oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve tried Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes, it’s hard to go back to the plain version! Whether you’re cooking for a holiday crowd or just want to treat yourself to an epic side, this recipe promises rich, smoky, cheesy comfort every time. Give it a whirl—you might just discover your new signature mash!
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Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy and indulgent, these Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes are a delicious twist on classic mashed potatoes. The addition of smoked Gouda cheese gives them a rich, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Additional Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, add salt, and boil for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain well and return them to the pot. Add butter, warm milk, sour cream, and garlic powder. Mash until smooth.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the smoked Gouda until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Garnish with chives and serve warm.
Notes
- For an extra smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or crumbled bacon.
- These mashed potatoes complement roasted meats and holiday meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
