Loaded Mashed Potatoes

Potatoes are an American staple, but mashed potatoes top the list.  There's just something about their silky texture and buttery flavor evoke memories of holidays and family times.  Peeling potatoes is labor of love, making me feel like someone spent time on me.  Now people use boxed, or even frozen, mashed potatoes but it's just not the same.

I think one reason people don't like to make potatoes is that they don't know how to measure.  Generally, for mashed potatoes, you need to prepare 1 1/2 medium-sized potatoes per person.  This allows for a generous serving plus a little left over.

These loaded potatoes are a family favorite in our house.  They have taken over at holiday buffets, and sometimes I make them on a weeknight, just to let my loved ones know I was thinking about them and wanted to do something special.

Here's what you'll need for 4 people:
6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 TBSP butter, room temp
1/2 c sour cream, room temp
1/2 c shredded cheddar cheese
salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp minced garlic
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Boil potatoes in salted water until tender when you poke them with a fork.  Drain thoroughly.

In a mixing bowl, combine the butter, sour cream, cheese and garlic.

Add the drained potatoes and beat until all potatoes are mashed and no lumps remain.  Add salt and pepper to taste.

To serve, sprinkle the cooked bacon on top.

Enjoy!