Chef notes
It is a myth that mashed potatoes need to be made just before they're served. They can go into a heat-proof bowl set over simmering water for about thirty minutes, as long as you keep adding more liquid to keep them creamy. Or, even easier, I pour them into a baking dish, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and bake them in the oven.
Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish, including the Parmesan, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Bake before serving.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut in 3/4-inch chunks
- 5 large garlic cloves
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 7-8 ounces garlic and herb goat cheese, at room temperature, such as Montrachet
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 1/2 cup half-and-half or milk
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation
1.Preheat the oven to 375 F.
2.Place the potatoes, garlic, and 1 tablespoon of salt in a large pot with enough water to cover the potatoes. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, until very tender.
3.Drain the potatoes and garlic and process them together through a food mill fitted with the coarsest blade set over a bowl. While the potatoes are still hot, stir in the goat cheese, butter, sour cream, half-and-half, 4 teaspoons salt, and 2 teaspoons pepper, until smooth.
4.Pour the mixture into a 9-by-12-by-2-inch oval baking dish, smoothing the top. Sprinkle the Parmesan on top and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until lightly browned. Serve hot.
