The Great Debate: Can You REALLY Put Philadelphia Cream Cheese in Mashed Potatoes?
Let's be honest, mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Fluffy, buttery, a warm hug for your taste buds. But what if we told you there was a way to take this classic dish to a whole new level of creamy, dreamy deliciousness? Enter Philadelphia cream cheese, the smooth operator of the dairy aisle.
Can You Put Philadelphia Cream Cheese In Mashed Potatoes |
The Purists vs. The Adventurous Eaters
Now, before you grab your pitchforks, traditionalists, hear us out! The world of mashed potatoes can be a welcoming place. There's a camp that believes in the sanctity of the spud, keeping things simple with butter, milk, and a sprinkle of love. But for those of us who like to push the mashed potato envelope (because, frankly, envelopes were made to be pushed), cream cheese is a game-changer.
The Case for Cream Cheese
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Think about it. Cream cheese is already magic in its own right. Spread on a bagel, it's a breakfast of champions. Dolloped on veggies, it's a healthy-ish (okay, maybe not that healthy) dip. So why wouldn't it work its magic on mashed potatoes? The tangy creaminess adds a whole new dimension of flavor, a richness that butter and milk alone can't quite achieve. It's like giving your mashed potatoes a fancy upgrade, without the fuss of a fancy French name.
But Wait, There's More!
The beauty of cream cheese in mashed potatoes is its versatility. Feeling adventurous? Throw in some chopped chives or crumbled bacon for a savory twist. Craving a little somethin' somethin' sweet? A dollop of honey goat cheese or a drizzle of maple syrup can add a delightful touch. The possibilities are endless, as limited only by your imagination (and maybe your refrigerator contents).
Okay, Okay, You Convinced Me. But How Do I Do It?
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
Here's the best part: it's ridiculously easy! Just follow your favorite mashed potato recipe, and when it's time to mash, add a few tablespoons of softened cream cheese along with your usual butter and milk. Start with a little and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can't take it away (unless you have a time machine, then by all means, be our guest).
Mashed Potato FAQs
How to soften cream cheese quickly?
Microwaving it for a few seconds on low power works in a pinch, but be careful not to melt it completely!
Tip: Pause, then continue with fresh focus.
How much cream cheese should I add?
Start with a couple of tablespoons and adjust to your taste.
Can I use other types of cream cheese?
Absolutely! Goat cheese, herb and garlic cream cheese, even smoked cream cheese can add exciting flavors.
Do I have to use milk with the cream cheese?
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Nope! You can skip the milk altogether for an extra decadent mash.
Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time with cream cheese?
Yes, but the cream cheese can make them stiffen a bit as they cool. Just add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to achieve the desired consistency.
So there you have it, folks. The answer is a resounding YES, you can absolutely put Philadelphia cream cheese in your mashed potatoes. Give it a try, and we guarantee you'll be a convert. Just don't tell the purists. We wouldn't want to rock the mashed potato boat too much.