A Beloved Family Classic: Cheesy Baked Mashed Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with aluminum foil.
Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until tender, about 15–20 minutes.
Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Add the milk, butter, and sour cream, then mash until creamy and smooth.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper, and mix until the cheese melts and blends evenly.
Transfer the mashed potatoes to the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top evenly.
Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs over the surface to form a crunchy crust.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh chives if desired. Serve warm.

Mix roasted garlic into the potatoes for a deeper, more complex flavor.
Try different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella to give the dish a fresh twist.
Add a little heat with chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use reduced-fat cheese.