If you are ready to transform an everyday classic into something truly irresistible, then this Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy Yukon gold potatoes blended with two kinds of Gouda cheese—regular and smoked—create a rich, velvety mash imbued with layers of smoky depth and buttery goodness. This is a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for elevating weeknight dinners or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.

Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the star-quality ingredients that each add their own magic. From hearty Yukon gold potatoes to luscious smoked Gouda and rich heavy cream, every item is essential for achieving that perfectly smooth, flavorful mash.

3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes: Creamy texture and buttery flavor make them ideal for mashing.
1.5 cups cubed Gouda cheese: Adds a mild, slightly sweet cheesiness to balance the smoky notes.
2 cups cubed smoked Gouda cheese: Brings a rich, smoky depth and bold character to the dish.
1 cup heavy cream: Ensures a smooth, luxurious mash with a velvety finish.
7 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps meld the flavors together seamlessly.
4 garlic cloves, chopped: Infuses the butter with aromatic notes that elevate the entire recipe.
1.5 tsp salt: Enhances every flavor in the potatoes and cheese sauce, adjustable to taste.
1-2 tsp ground white pepper: Adds gentle heat without overpowering the smokiness.
1/4 cup chopped chives (for garnish): Adds fresh color and a subtle oniony crunch when sprinkled on top.

How to Make Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Start by washing and peeling the Yukon gold potatoes, then chopping them into roughly 2-inch chunks. This size ensures even cooking and the perfect tender bite needed for creamy mashed potatoes.

Step 2: Boil Until Tender

Place the potatoes in a large pot filled with cold water, add a tablespoon of salt, and bring to a boil. Allow them to cook for about 10 minutes or until a fork slides easily through the potatoes. Straining the water at the right time keeps your mash from getting waterlogged.

Step 3: Make the Smoked Cheese Sauce

While the potatoes cook, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over low heat in a large pan. Once sizzling, add the chopped garlic and gently sauté until golden and fragrant—this step deepens the flavor base. Stir in warm heavy cream, then gradually add the cubed Gouda and smoked Gouda in a few portions, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted into a smooth sauce. Finally, season with salt and white pepper for a perfectly balanced taste.

Step 4: Rice and Combine

Using a potato ricer (or a block grater if your potatoes have cooled slightly), rice the boiled potatoes into a large bowl. This creates a velvety texture free of lumps. Pour the warm smoked cheese sauce over the potatoes and fold gently until everything is fully incorporated. Take a moment to taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed.

Step 5: Bake for Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a large baking dish with nonstick spray, spread the cheesy mashed potatoes evenly, and brush the top with the remaining tablespoon of melted butter. Bake for 20 minutes, then switch your oven to broil and cook for an additional 3 to 6 minutes until a gorgeous golden crust forms. This final step adds a delightful textural contrast to your creamy mash.

Step 6: Serve Hot and Garnished

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the mashed potatoes with freshly chopped chives. This adds vibrant color and a subtle onion flavor, making the dish as pretty as it is delicious.

How to Serve Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

A scattering of fresh chives or finely chopped parsley gives a fresh pop of green and a gentle sharpness that balances the rich, cheesy potatoes perfectly. For an extra touch of luxury, a light drizzle of truffle oil or crispy fried shallots are fantastic adventurous options.

Side Dishes

This buttery, smoky mash pairs beautifully with roast chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty vegetarian mushroom gravy. The creamy texture and rich flavor make it a wonderful foil for dishes with bold or tangy sauces, and it also shines alongside fresh seasonal vegetables.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive occasion, serve the smoked Gouda mashed potatoes in individual ramekins topped with more melted cheese and crispy breadcrumbs for a personal gratin. You can also pipe the mash onto a baking sheet and bake until golden for a fun, elegant side that looks as impressive as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover smoked Gouda mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making them a great option for preparing ahead after your special meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to leave some room for expansion and press out as much air as possible to maintain freshness.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw refrigerated or frozen mashed potatoes in the fridge overnight. Warm them gently on the stovetop over low heat or in a covered dish in the oven, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess. Stir often to keep the texture smooth and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use regular cheddar instead of smoked Gouda?

Yes, but keep in mind that smoked Gouda brings a unique smoky flavor and creamy melt that cheddar doesn’t replicate. If you want that smoky depth, consider adding a small amount of smoked paprika or chipotle powder alongside cheddar.

What’s the best way to avoid lumpy mashed potatoes?

Using a potato ricer or food mill rather than a standard masher helps you achieve the creamiest, lump-free texture. Also, mash potatoes while they are still warm for the best results.

Is it necessary to bake the mashed potatoes? Can I serve them right after mixing?

Baking adds a lovely golden crust and enhances the flavor with the browned butter on top, but you can absolutely serve them straight from the mixing bowl if you prefer. Just keep the potatoes warm for the best taste.

How spicy will the white pepper make the dish?

White pepper adds gentle heat and a subtle earthiness without the sharpness of black pepper. Adjust the amount based on your preference or omit it if you prefer a milder mash.

Can I prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time?

You can make the cheese sauce in advance and gently reheat it over low heat before combining with the potatoes. Just keep stirring to prevent the cheese from separating or clumping.

Final Thoughts

This Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a heartfelt celebration of comfort and sophistication all in one bowl. Rich, creamy, and bursting with smoky cheesy goodness, it’s an easy way to transform a humble side dish into something unforgettable. Trust me, once you try it, this will quickly become your go-to recipe whenever you want to impress family and friends with minimal fuss. So grab your potatoes and cheese—it’s time to mash, melt, and savor every delicious bite!

Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes Recipe

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3.9 from 35 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

These Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes are a decadent twist on a classic side dish, combining creamy Yukon gold potatoes with rich, melted gouda and smoked gouda cheese. Infused with garlic and baked to perfection with a buttery crust, this recipe elevates mashed potatoes to a gourmet experience perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

3 lbs Yukon gold potatoes

Cheese Sauce

1.5 cups cubed gouda cheese (170g / 6oz)
2 cups cubed smoked gouda cheese (227g / 8oz)
1 cup heavy cream
7 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
4 garlic cloves, chopped
1.5 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1–2 tsp ground white pepper (depending on heat tolerance)

Garnish

1/4 cup chives, chopped

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Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the Yukon gold potatoes, then chop them into large 2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
Boil the Potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a large pot, cover with cold water, add 1 tablespoon of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Drain the potatoes thoroughly once cooked.
Make the Cheese Sauce – Melt Butter: In a large pan over low heat, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it starts to sizzle gently, preparing for sautéing the garlic.
Sauté Garlic: Add the chopped garlic to the melted butter and cook over low heat until golden brown and fragrant, approximately 5 minutes, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Add Cream: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, warming it through while stirring gently to combine with the butter and garlic mixture.
Melt the Cheese: Gradually add the cubed gouda and smoked gouda cheese in 2-3 additions, stirring continuously to help the cheese melt smoothly into a creamy sauce.
Season the Sauce: Stir in 1.5 teaspoons salt and 1-2 teaspoons ground white pepper, adjusting according to your taste preferences and heat tolerance.
Rice the Potatoes: Using a potato ricer (or a block grater if cooled slightly), rice the boiled potatoes into a large mixing bowl for a fluffy texture.
Combine Potatoes and Cheese Sauce: Pour the warm cheese sauce over the riced potatoes and fold gently to mix until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Transfer the cheesy mashed potatoes into the dish and spread evenly.
Butter Topping: Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and brush it over the surface of the mashed potatoes to aid in browning.
Bake and Broil: Bake the mashed potatoes for 20 minutes until heated through, then switch to broil for an additional 3-6 minutes to form a golden brown, slightly crispy top layer. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Serve and Garnish: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped chives, and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Yukon gold potatoes are ideal as they provide a creamy texture when mashed.
Adjust the amount of white pepper based on your preferred spice level.
Use a potato ricer for the fluffiest mashed potatoes; a block grater can be an alternative if the potatoes have cooled slightly.
The broiling step is key to achieving a delicious golden crust on top.
For a lighter version, you can substitute some heavy cream with milk, but this will change the texture and richness.
Leftover mashed potatoes can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American