CRAZY COOKING CHALLENGE Smokey and Cheesy Buttermilk Baked Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes really aren't my thing, but when I was looking for a recipe to make for the Crazy Cooking Challenge this month, this one immediately caught my eye.  They are a little extra work with the double cooking and all, but I think they are worth the effort.  This dish might just grace my table for the holidays.  Everyone here absolutely loved the smokey flavor of the paprika combined with the sharp taste of buttermilk.  Really simple ingredients combined for a great tasting dish!  If you think so too.....click the like button and vote for me ;o)  Thanks for stopping by!

SMOKEY AND CHEESY BUTTERMILK BAKED MASHED POTATOES

2 bags (about 2.5 lbs total) Honey Gold new potatoes

6oz cream cheese

6-8 tbs real butter

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup half and half or whole milk

1 tbs smoked paprika (I used regular didn't have the smoked version but I imagine it would be really good)

1 tsp black pepper or to taste

2 tsp salt or to taste

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2-1 cup grated medium cheddar cheese
Original recipe found here.

1. Boil potatoes in salted water for approximately 15 minutes or until tender.  These tiny potatoes are so small, I left the skins on but then again....we love the skin.
2. Place cooked potatoes in a stand mixer or large bowl able to accomodate a mixer.  I used my stand mixer bowl but had to manually smash the potatoes prior to whipping with the attachment.
3. Add all ingredients to the bowl with the exception of the half and half or whole milk.  Whip until all ingredients are thoroughly combined adding half and half or whole milk until creamy and light and fluffy.  If desired you could use more buttermilk at this step if you would like.....
4. Place potatoes in an oven proof 11 x 13 dish and top with cheese, bake at 350 until cheese is melted, about 15-20 minutes.

**Tip--If you don't have any buttermilk....make your own.  Just add 1 tbs white vinegar in a one cup measuring utensil, fill the cup with milk and allow to sit for a few minutes.  Voila, no extra trip to the store required!

Not a great pic (really dark in my kitchen), but a really tasty dish :o)

Thanks so much to the Picky Palate for sharing!