Cheesy smashed baked potatoes

Cheesy smashed baked potatoes feature creamy cheddar cheese and zesty mustard paired with tender potatoes, creating a satisfying side dish. Baked until bubbly and crispy, these potatoes are perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

19 Jan 2026
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

5 potatoes
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
1 cup milk (1% fat)
1 cup cheddar cheese
2 tsp mustard
1 tsp paprika
2 tbsp chives

Cheesy smashed baked potatoes make for a delightful and hearty side dish that pairs well with many main courses. This recipe combines the creaminess of cheddar cheese with the subtle heat of paprika and the zesty flavor of mustard, creating a savory experience that will satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish is both delicious and easy to prepare.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare Potatoes:
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Leave the skins on for extra texture and flavor.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

3. Prepare Cheese Sauce:
- While the potatoes are boiling, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese, mustard, and paprika. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Set aside.

4. Smash Potatoes:
- Drain the boiled potatoes and transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Use a potato masher or a fork to gently smash each potato, making sure to flatten them slightly but keeping them in one piece.

5. Bake Potatoes:
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the smashed potatoes.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese sauce is bubbly and the edges of the potatoes are crispy.

6. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle with chopped chives.
- Serve immediately as a delicious side dish or a hearty main course.

With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, cheesy smashed baked potatoes are a simple yet delectable addition to any meal. The creamy cheese sauce blended with the slight tanginess of mustard and the hint of spice from paprika will have you coming back for seconds. Enjoy these potatoes fresh out of the oven while they're hot and bubbly for the best experience.

Cheesy smashed baked potatoes FAQ:

What is the baking time for Cheesy Smashed Baked Potatoes?

Bake the smashed potatoes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes. They are done when the cheese sauce is bubbly and the edges are crispy.

How do I know when the potatoes are fork-tender?

Potatoes are fork-tender when you can easily insert a fork or knife into them without resistance. This usually takes around 15-20 minutes of boiling.

Can I use a different cheese instead of cheddar?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar cheese with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even mozzarella for different flavor profiles. Just ensure they melt well.

What is the best way to store leftover Cheesy Smashed Baked Potatoes?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they do not mash as well.

Cooking Tips:

- Choose the right potatoes.: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for this recipe due to their ability to hold their shape when smashed and baked.

- Don’t over-boil the potatoes.: Boil the potatoes until they are just fork-tender to ensure they don’t fall apart when smashed.

- Use good quality cheese.: Opt for a sharp cheddar cheese to add a rich depth of flavor to your potatoes.

- Season well.: Make sure to season the potatoes generously with salt and pepper before smashing them to enhance their flavor.

- Customize your toppings.: Feel free to add other toppings like crispy bacon, sour cream, or green onions for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutrition Facts

6 Servings
Calories 270kcal
Protein 10g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 4.14g
Sugar 3.65g
Fat 11g

Cheesy smashed baked potatoes