Mashed potatoes are a must-have side dish at every Thanksgiving day feast. They're creamy, fluffy, versatile, and just the perfect pair for turkey and gravy. So I've compiled my top-five Thanksgiving mashed potato recipes that have all been a huge hit with my family over the years! Whether you're a fan of cheesy mashed potatoes or classic creamy mashed potatoes, you'll find an easy and delicious recipe here.
Table of Contents
The Best Mashed Potato Recipes For Thanksgiving
1. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
This recipe takes traditional mashed potatoes to the next level by adding a mix of shredded cheddar cheeses and a touch of cream. They're extra creamy and cheesy with a golden cheese crust on top from baking in the oven.
What I love is you can make them ahead of time, then top the potatoes with cheese and bake right before you're ready to serve dinner!
Why it's a hit: The combination of creamy potatoes and ooey-gooey cheese makes this cheesy mashed potatoes recipe a favorite with kids and adults!
Click here for this cheesy mashed potatoes recipe!
2. Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes
If you want to make extra smooth and creamy mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving this year, you have to make this recipe! Adding cream cheese makes these mashed potatoes unbelievably creamy with a slight tang that sets the flavor apart. Whenever I serve these, someone always asks what my secret is!
Pro-tip: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture. Make sure to let it come to room temperature before mixing!
Click here to make these cream cheese mashed potatoes.
3. Mashed Potatoes Without Milk
This recipe was born out of necessity during a family gathering when I ran out of milk, and it’s since become a go-to for me ever since.
Instead of milk, I use butter - or dairy-free butter to make vegan Thanksgiving mashed potatoes - to create a lighter but equally creamy texture. It’s perfect for guests with dietary restrictions!
Why it’s a standout: It’s a lighter take on classic mashed potatoes without sacrificing any of the creamy goodness.
Here is my mashed potatoes without milk recipe.
4. Twice-Baked Mashed Potatoes
If you want to add an indulgent side to your Thanksgiving day feast, you have to check out my twice-baked mashed potatoes. They’re loaded with sour cream, cheese, and butter all blended throughout, baked until the tops are crispy and golden.
The best part? You can prep them ahead of time and just pop them in the oven before serving!
Click here for my twice baked mashed potatoes recipe.
Bonus: This recipe is great for putting into individual portions so everyone can grab a dish to make for easy serving!
5. Red Skin Mashed Potatoes
My aunt would always make these red skin mashed potatoes and bring them to our family's Thanksgiving. I thought they were gross as a kid, but I love them as an adult!
The potatoes have some more texture from the skins of the potatoes, and they also add a slightly nutty flavor that's truly delicious. These potatoes are mashed just enough to be creamy but still have delightful chunks for a hearty feel.
Pro tip: Add a sprinkle of chives or crispy bacon on top for extra flavor!
Here is my red skin mashed potatoes recipe.
My Pro- Tips for Perfect Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes
I've made so many Thanksgiving mashed potato recipes over the years, and I've found that there are a few pro-tips that will help no matter which recipe you're making!
Check out my pro-tips:
- Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for if you want your potatoes to have an extra fluffy texture.
- Don’t overmix your mash or it will make your potatoes gummy. If you want them to be smooth, stop mixing as soon as you don't notice any more lumps.
- If you want to make creamier mashed potatoes, add a splash of whole milk or softened cream cheese as you're mashing.
- Make the mashed potatoes the day before and reheat them in the oven right before serving for a stress-free holiday. All mashed potatoes taste delicious reheated!
- Serve your mashed potatoes with this brown gravy, pork gravy, or white country gravy!
My Final Thoughts
No Thanksgiving table is complete without a killer mashed potato dish, and these five recipes offer something for everyone. From cheesy and indulgent to light and creamy, I promise your family will love whichever recipe you decide to make!
So try one (or all) this Thanksgiving, and watch your guests go back for seconds and thirds!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Nadia
I've made your red skin mashed potato recipe almost 10 times now. It is a keeper! Can't wait to try some of these other ones though 🙂