Okay, folks, let’s be honest: Thanksgiving is basically built on potatoes. Mashed, roasted, scalloped…they’re the unsung heroes of the feast. But let’s face it, sometimes those traditional recipes can be, well, a little predictable. Are you tired of the same old spuds? Do you dream of creamy, dreamy potato dishes that will absolutely floor your family? Then you’ve landed in the right place.
I’ve compiled 15 creamy Thanksgiving potato recipes that are guaranteed to elevate your holiday spread (and maybe, just maybe, earn you some extra gravy). We’re talking comfort food, elevated. From decadent bakes to surprisingly speedy sides, there’s something here for everyone – even the picky eaters. Let’s get cooking!
1. Classic Creamy Mashed Potatoes (But Better)
This isn’t your grandma’s mashed potato recipe (unless your grandma is a serious culinary genius). We’re injecting some serious flavor here.
Ingredients:
- 2.5 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 cup heavy cream (full fat is crucial!)
- 1/2 cup butter, unsalted
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A sprinkle of fresh chives, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender.
- Drain them thoroughly – nobody wants watery potatoes.
- Mash the potatoes with a potato masher—no electric mixers here! We want fluffy, not gluey.
- Stir in the butter, heavy cream, and sour cream until everything is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh chives.
Why You’ll Love It: These mashed potatoes are the epitome of comfort. They’re decadent, creamy, and completely satisfying. Trust me, you’ll be making these long after Thanksgiving!
2. Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
Basically, all the best parts of a loaded baked potato, but baked into a glorious casserole.
Ingredients:
- 6 large baking potatoes, baked and mashed (save the skins for a fun appetizer!)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled (because…bacon!)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Combine the mashed potatoes, sour cream, milk, and cream cheese in a large bowl.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s a crowd-pleaser. Everyone loves a loaded baked potato, and this casserole takes it to the next level. Plus, it’s great for feeding a crowd!
3. Gruyere and Potato Gratin
Fancy, yes. Difficult, no. This gratin is surprisingly simple to make and looks impressive.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Gruyere cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer the potato slices in a greased baking dish, seasoning each layer with salt and pepper.
- Pour the heavy cream over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle with the Gruyere cheese and minced garlic.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Why You’ll Love It: The Gruyere cheese adds a nutty, sophisticated flavor that elevates this dish. It’s unbelievably creamy and decadent.
4. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Garlic and parmesan… enough said, right?
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and creamy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
Why You’ll Love It: Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. These are perfect for a weeknight dinner too!
5. Scalloped Potatoes with Ham
A hearty classic, but with a creamy twist.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 oz cooked ham, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the potatoes in the dish, season with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle with half the ham and half the cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers with remaining potatoes, ham, and cheese.
- Pour heavy cream and milk over the potatoes.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and cheese is melted.
Why You’ll Love It: The ham adds a smoky, savory depth to the creamy potatoes. A real comfort food champion!
6. Sweet Potato and Goat Cheese Mash
A slightly healthier and intensely flavorful twist – FYI, that goat cheese really makes a difference.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Boil the sweet potatoes until tender.
- Drain and mash with milk, butter, and goat cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Why You’ll Love It: This mash has a wonderful sweetness balanced by the tangy goat cheese. It’s a surprisingly sophisticated side dish!
7. Creamy Ranch Potatoes
Don’t judge until you try it! It’s creamy, savory, and totally addictive.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs red potatoes, quartered
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (Full fat, please!)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, melted (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Boil potatoes until tender.
- Drain and mash or coarsely chop.
- Stir in the sour cream, mayonnaise, and ranch seasoning.
- Top with melted cheddar cheese, if desired.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s an unexpectedly delicious flavor bomb! Trust me on this one.
8. Potatoes Au Gratin with Bacon & Caramelized Onions
This one demands attention. Bacon, caramelized onions, and a creamy cheese sauce…need I say more?
9. Garlic Herb Creamy Potatoes
Simple, elegant, and full of fresh flavors.
10. Cheddar Broccoli Potato Bake
A hearty and cheesy casserole perfect for feeding a crowd.
11. Spicy Jalapeno Popper Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy, and with a kick – this is a flavor explosion.
12. Maple Dijon Creamy Potatoes
A sweet and savory combination that’s surprisingly delightful.
13. Dill Pickle Potatoes
Don’t knock it till you try it! The tangy dill pickle adds a unique twist to creamy potatoes.
14. Lemon & Herb Creamy Potatoes
Bright, zesty, and refreshing – a lighter option for your Thanksgiving table.
15. Brown Butter Sage Creamy Potatoes
Brown butter adds a nutty depth that elevates these potatoes to a new level of deliciousness.
The Final Verdict
There you have it – 15 creamy potato recipes to make your Thanksgiving extra special! Whether you’re looking for a classic comfort food fix, a fancy-feeling gratin, or something a little different, you’ll find something to love in this list. Who needs stuffing when you have these potatoes? 😉 Happy cooking and Happy Thanksgiving!
