Holiday Potatoes

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Cook Time: 20 minutes

When the holiday season arrives, why not dress up your mashed potatoes! Thats what we do. All it takes is some cream cheese, sour cream, a little garlic, and your mixer! Dolly and Rachel

Ingredients

• 5 pounds russet potatoes - washed, peeled, and quartered
• 1 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic paste, or 1 garlic clove, minced
• 8 tablespoons butter, room temperature
• 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• cup sour cream
• 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: Place potatoes in a colander and rinse them under cold water until the water runs clear.

Step 2: Transfer the potatoes to a large pot and fill it with enough cold water so that the potatoes are covered by about 2 inches. Add 1 teaspoon of salt.

Step 3: Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 20 minutes.

Step 4: Drain the potatoes in a colander and transfer them to a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer.

Step 5: Add the remaining teaspoon of salt, garlic, 6 tablespoons of butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and cup of milk to the potatoes.

Step 6: Using an electric hand mixer, or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, blend the ingredients on medium speed.

Step 7: Once the mixture is combined, pour in the remaining cup of milk and continue mixing on high speed until the potatoes are light and fluffy.

Step 8: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and top with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.

Step 9: Garnish with chopped parsley and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 318
• Total Fat: 14g (18% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 8g (41% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 37mg (12% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 407mg (18% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 43g (16% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (16% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 7g (13% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 17mg (19% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 81mg (6% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (12% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 1101mg (23% Daily Value)

Holiday Potatoes is a luxurious mashed potato dish that is perfect for any festive occasion, particularly during the holiday season. This indulgent recipe, developed by Dolly Parton and Rachel Parton George, adds a rich twist to traditional mashed potatoes by incorporating cream cheese, sour cream, and butter. Its creamy texture and flavor are sure to make it a crowd favorite.

Origin of Holiday Potatoes

The origins of mashed potatoes can be traced back to the 18th century in Europe, particularly in France, where they were initially served as a simple side dish. However, the Holiday Potatoes recipe, as we know it today, has been popularized in the United States, especially during festive gatherings. The addition of ingredients like cream cheese and sour cream is a more modern adaptation, adding a luxurious richness to the dish. Dolly Parton, a beloved figure in American culture, is known for her down-to-earth Southern cooking, and this recipe, taken from her cookbook "Good Lookin' Cookin'," has become a beloved part of holiday meals for many families.

Regional Variations

While Holiday Potatoes are enjoyed across the U.S., different regions might have slight variations in the recipe. In the South, where comfort food reigns supreme, its common to find mashed potatoes enriched with heavy cream, butter, and cheese. In the Northeast, some variations might include roasted garlic or a sprinkle of fresh thyme. Regardless of the specific tweaks, the essence of the dish remains the same: a creamy, indulgent potato side dish that pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or other festive main courses.

How Holiday Potatoes Differs from Similar Dishes

Holiday Potatoes are more decadent than traditional mashed potatoes due to the addition of cream cheese, sour cream, and garlic. This gives the potatoes a fluffy, rich texture thats distinct from the simpler mashed varieties. Unlike the standard mashed potatoes, which might only use butter and milk, this dish incorporates more indulgent ingredients that elevate it to a true holiday side dish. Additionally, the recipe calls for fresh parsley as a garnish, offering a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Where Are Holiday Potatoes Usually Served?

Holiday Potatoes are typically served during holiday meals, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. They are a staple at family gatherings and large feasts, where they complement a variety of main dishes, including roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib. The rich and creamy texture of the potatoes makes them a perfect side dish to balance out the savory flavors of meats, as well as the sweetness of cranberry sauce or glazed vegetables. They can also be served at casual gatherings, dinner parties, or any occasion that calls for a comforting side dish.

Interesting Facts About Holiday Potatoes

• Mashed potatoes have been a part of American cuisine since the 1800s, but the richer variations like Holiday Potatoes have become popular in the 20th century.
• Although the recipe for Holiday Potatoes may vary slightly, it is widely loved for its creamy consistency, making it an instant favorite at any festive meal.
• Dolly Parton, known for her Southern hospitality, shares this recipe in her cookbook "Good Lookin' Cookin'". The cookbook is a collection of recipes that reflect her love for family and friends.
• Holiday Potatoes are not just a side dishtheyre a comfort food that often becomes the highlight of any meal, earning a reputation for bringing people together around the table.

Conclusion

Holiday Potatoes are a simple yet luxurious dish that brings joy to any occasion. With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, it stands as a testament to the heartwarming tradition of Southern cooking. Whether you're celebrating a major holiday or enjoying a family meal, this dish is sure to become a beloved part of your menu.

FAQ about Holiday Potatoes

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