CHEF JEFF -- ONE BYTE AT A TIME: Snowy Mashed Potatoes

What would Thanksgiving be without mashed potatoes?

Snowy Mashed Potatoes

12 medium potatoes

1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened

1 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon pepper

1 clove garlic, crushed

¼ cup chives, chopped (optional)

½ teaspoon paprika

1 tablespoon butter

Peel, quarter and boil potatoes until tender. Combine with cream cheese, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic and optional chives, and beat with mixer on high speed until smooth and light. Spoon into lightly greased round baking dish. Sprinkle with paprika and dot with butter. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Dish can be baked covered (for smooth top) or uncovered (for slight crusting on top).

Note: Potatoes can be cooked and mashed the day before and refrigerated overnight, in which case bake at 350 degrees for 45 to 60 minutes.

Grab more food tidbits at the Chef Jeff blog at GrandForksHerald.com.