Creamy Cheesy Mashed Potato au Gratin

Ingredients

• 2 lb Yukon Gold Potatoes (peeled and cut into large chunks)
• 8 pieces Garlic Cloves (whole, added to boiling water for mild roasted flavor)
• 4 Tbsp Unsalted Butter (cut into cubes, room temperature)
• 5.5 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese (grated)
• 2 Tbsp Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
• 1/4 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (for crunchy topping)
• 1/4 cup Bacon Bits (cooked and crumbled; can use store‑bought)
• 1 tsp Salt (plus extra for seasoning the mash)
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

1. Prep Potatoes

   Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and cut them into large, uniform chunks so they cook evenly.

   Time: PT5M

2. Boil Potatoes with Garlic

   Place the potato chunks in a large pot, cover with cold water, add 1 tbsp salt and the whole garlic cloves, then bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce to a gentle simmer and cook until a fork slides easily into the potatoes.

   Time: PT20M

3. Drain and Steam Dry

   Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for 2 minutes to allow excess steam to escape; this prevents watery mash.

   Time: PT2M

4. Rice the Potatoes

   While the potatoes are still hot, push them through a potato ricer into a large mixing bowl. If the potatoes resist, they need a few more minutes of cooking.

   Time: PT5M

5. Mix Butter, Cheese, and Seasonings

   Add the cubed butter, grated cheddar, salt, and pepper to the riced potatoes. Stir gently until the butter melts and the cheese is evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

   Time: PT5M

6. Assemble in Baking Dish

   Transfer the cheesy mash to a greased 2‑quart baking dish, smoothing the top. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar, grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and crumbled bacon bits evenly over the surface.

   Time: PT3M

7. Bake Until Golden

   Place the dish in a pre‑heated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

   Time: PT15M

   Temperature: 400°F

8. Rest and Serve

   Remove the dish from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes so the topping sets, then serve hot.

   Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

350

Protein

10 g

Carbohydrates

45 g

Fat

15 g

Fiber

4 g