Loaded Smashed Taters
You can make an entire pot of smashed taters in the time it takes to bake a single potato! I like to use baby Yukon Golds because the skins are very thin and easy to mash. Make this to your taste—sometimes I add in garlic and chives or sub shallots for the green onions. My husband loves these potatoes with steak, and even my 20-month-old daughter enjoys them!
You can make an entire pot of smashed taters in the time it takes to bake a single potato! I like to use baby Yukon Golds because the skins are very thin and easy to mash. Make this to your taste—sometimes I add in garlic and chives or sub shallots for the green onions. My husband loves these potatoes with steak, and even my 20-month-old daughter enjoys them!
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 green onions chopped
- 3 tablespoons butter softened
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 pound bacon strips cooked and crumbled
- 2-1/2 pounds baby yukon gold potatoes
- 1 cup 2% milk warmed
- 1/2 cup spreadable garlic and herb cream cheese
- 1/3 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Carbohydrate 1.26265896756103 g
- Cholesterol 70.9190233299054 mg
- Fat 36.7053465305976 g
- Fiber 0.195696288132615 g
- Protein 12.7603257571991 g
- Saturated Fat 15.5847890751458 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (117g)
- Sodium 691.730520819549 mg
- Sugar 1.06696267942842 g
- Trans Fat 3.43355365132633 g
- Calories 387 calories
Step-by-step
- Place potatoes in a large saucepan; add water to cover. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat; cook, uncovered, 15-20 minutes or until tender.
- Drain; return to pan.
- Lightly mash potatoes, gradually adding milk, cream cheese and butter to reach desired consistency.
- Stir in bacon, cheeses, green onions, tomatoes, parsley, salt and pepper.
Loaded Smashed Taters: A Weeknight Family Favorite
As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are quick, easy, and most importantly, delicious. This Loaded Smashed Taters recipe has become a staple in our household, a comforting and satisfying side dish that even my picky toddler devours. It’s so simple to make, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been doing it all along!
The secret to these amazing smashed taters lies in the baby Yukon Gold potatoes. Their thin skins make them incredibly easy to mash, resulting in a creamy, dreamy texture. I usually start by boiling the potatoes until they’re tender. This takes about 15-20 minutes, and honestly, that’s the longest part of the whole process. Then comes the fun part: mashing! I don’t mash them completely; I leave them just slightly chunky for a nice textural contrast.
Next, I stir in the magic ingredients: creamy softened butter, rich cream cheese, warm milk (for extra creaminess), and a generous helping of cheese. I usually go for a mix of cheddar and parmesan, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Then, comes the savory additions: crispy bacon crumbles (a must!), chopped green onions for a fresh bite, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes for a touch of sweetness and acidity, and a sprinkle of dried parsley for a pop of flavor. Finally, a dash of salt and pepper to season everything perfectly.
These loaded smashed taters are incredibly versatile. My husband loves them with steak, but they also pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, pork chops, or even grilled fish. They're a fantastic addition to any weeknight dinner, effortlessly elevating a simple meal into something truly special. The best part? They're so quick and easy to make, you’ll have more time to spend with your family, which is what really matters. The clean-up is also a breeze, which is another big plus in my book!
Tips and Variations:
Garlic Lovers Rejoice: If you're a garlic fan like me, add a clove or two of minced garlic to the potato mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Herb Infusion: Feel free to experiment with other herbs. Fresh chives, rosemary, or thyme would be fantastic additions.
Spice it Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and replace it with crispy roasted chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
This recipe is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It's a dish that embodies the spirit of home-cooked goodness, a comforting embrace in every bite. So, the next time you're looking for a quick and satisfying side dish, give these loaded smashed taters a try. You won't be disappointed!
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does! Happy cooking!
