Step 1: Begin by preparing your potatoes. Peel the potatoes thoroughly to remove any skin. After peeling, cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks, roughly 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) in size. This will help them cook evenly and mash easily later on.
Step 2: Place the cut potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Make sure there’s enough water to submerge all the potatoes completely. This will ensure that the potatoes cook evenly without becoming gummy. Add 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of salt to the water to enhance the flavor of the potatoes while they boil.
Step 3: Bring the pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and allow the potatoes to cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. You can test this by inserting a fork into a potato chunk; it should slide in easily without resistance.
Step 4: While the potatoes are boiling, prepare your ingredients. Measure out 4 tablespoons (56.7 grams) of butter and 1 cup (113 grams) of your favorite shredded cheese. If you’re using a blend of cheeses, consider a combination of cheddar and mozzarella for a rich flavor and gooey texture.
Step 5: Once the potatoes are tender, carefully drain them in a colander to remove the hot water. Be cautious, as the steam will be very hot. Allow the potatoes to sit in the colander for a minute to release excess moisture, which will help achieve a creamier mashed potato consistency.
Step 6: Transfer the drained potatoes back into the pot or into a large mixing bowl. Begin mashing the potatoes using a potato masher or a fork. Mash them just enough to break up the chunks, creating a fluffy texture. Avoid over-mashing as this can make the potatoes gummy.
Step 7: While mashing, add the butter to the potatoes. This will melt as you continue to mash, creating a creamy mixture. Stir in the butter until fully incorporated, allowing it to melt completely into the hot potatoes.
Step 8: After the butter is mixed in, it’s time to add the cheese. Gradually stir in the shredded cheese, reserving a small amount to sprinkle on top as a garnish if desired. Mix well until the cheese has melted and is evenly distributed throughout the potatoes, creating a rich, cheesy flavor.
Step 9: Season the mashed potatoes with additional salt to taste. You can adjust the seasoning based on your preference. Mixing in freshly cracked black pepper or even garlic powder can add an extra layer of flavor if desired.
Step 10: Once everything is combined and the cheese is melted, serve the cheesy garlic mashed potatoes hot. You can spoon them into a serving dish or serve them directly from the pot. For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle the reserved cheese on top and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if you have them on hand. Enjoy your comforting and delicious cheesy garlic mashed potatoes alongside your favorite main dish!
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