Smoked Mashed Potatoes with Gouda

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smoked Mashed Potatoes with Gouda combine the creamy indulgence of mashed potatoes with the rich, smoky flavor from the grill. The smoky notes from the potatoes infuse them with an extra layer of depth, while the Gouda adds a deliciously creamy, slightly nutty finish. Topped with sour cream and butter, this dish is the ultimate comfort food with a sophisticated twist. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal or a backyard BBQ, these potatoes are sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 5 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
• 2 tablespoons salt
• Cold water
• 1 cup salted butter
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Gouda
• ½ cup sour cream

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes (if desired) and cut them into uniform chunks. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, cover the potatoes with cold water and add 2 tablespoons of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender.
3. Smoke the Potatoes (Optional): For that smoky flavor, you can smoke the potatoes on a grill or smoker before mashing. Wrap the boiled potatoes in foil and place them on the smoker at 225°F for 30-40 minutes to infuse them with a smoky flavor.
4. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Begin mashing them with a potato masher or use a hand mixer for a smoother texture.
5. Make the Mash Creamy: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter and heavy cream together over low heat, stirring occasionally. Once the butter is fully melted and the cream is warmed through, pour the mixture over the mashed potatoes.
6. Add Gouda and Sour Cream: Stir in the shredded Gouda cheese and sour cream, mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
7. Season and Serve: Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the potatoes warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 6-8 people and takes around 45 minutes to prepare (including smoking time, if desired).

Variations

• Add Garlic: For an extra burst of flavor, roast some garlic and add it to the mashed potatoes for a subtle, sweet flavor.
• Herb Infused: Add fresh herbs such as chives, thyme, or rosemary to the mashed potatoes for an aromatic finish.
• Swap Gouda for Other Cheeses: If you prefer a different cheese, try cheddar, Gruyère, or even a bit of Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
• Make It Lighter: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and swap the butter for olive oil.

Storage/Reheating

Smoked Mashed Potatoes with Gouda can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish or warm them gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to restore their creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I skip smoking the potatoes?

Yes, smoking the potatoes adds an extra layer of flavor, but it’s optional. You can simply boil the potatoes and proceed with the recipe for a delicious version without the smokiness.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat them gently before serving.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! While Gouda gives the potatoes a rich, creamy flavor, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella for different tastes.

4. How do I make mashed potatoes extra creamy?

To make your mashed potatoes extra creamy, ensure you’re using enough butter and heavy cream, and don’t skimp on the sour cream for richness.

5. Can I make this dish without sour cream?

If you prefer not to use sour cream, you can substitute it with cream cheese or a bit of Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture.

6. Can I make this recipe with sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute the russet or Yukon Gold potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the cheese and other ingredients are checked for any hidden gluten.

8. Can I freeze mashed potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes! Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

9. Can I use other types of cream?

Heavy cream gives the mashed potatoes a rich, smooth texture, but you can use half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter option.

10. Can I use store-bought smoked potatoes?

If you want to save time, you could use store-bought smoked potatoes, although smoking them yourself gives a more authentic flavor.

Conclusion

Smoked Mashed Potatoes with Gouda are a delicious twist on the classic mashed potatoes. With the smoky flavor, creamy Gouda, and richness from butter and sour cream, they make an indulgent and flavorful side dish for any occasion. Whether you serve them for a family dinner, holiday gathering, or BBQ, these potatoes will become an instant favorite!

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