As the weather starts to cool down, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of creamy potato goodness to hit the spot. Idaho potatoes are a staple for any comfort food lover, and when paired with rich and creamy ingredients, they become truly irresistible. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of Idaho potatoes in all their glory.
From classic mashed potatoes to innovative takes on potato skins and gnocchi, these creamy Idaho potato recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling cozy and content.
Garlic Mashed Idaho Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes with the rich flavor of garlic. This simple recipe combines the natural sweetness of Idaho potatoes with the pungency of roasted garlic, creating a delicious side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Idaho potatoes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the garlic cloves on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold into a packet.
3. Roast the garlic in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and mashed.
4. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and return to the pot.
5. Add the roasted garlic, milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Idaho Potato Casserole
A comforting, creamy casserole that combines tender Idaho potatoes with a rich, cheesy sauce and crunchy toppings. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Idaho potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or Saltine)
– Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and enough cold water to cover; let soak for 30 minutes.
3. Drain potatoes and combine with butter, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange half the potato mixture.
5. Pour over heavy cream and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Top with remaining potato mixture, crushed crackers, and additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Idaho Potato Soup with Bacon
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy potato soup, infused with the rich flavor of crispy bacon. This hearty recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Idaho potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and crumbled bacon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Herb-Roasted Idaho Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with these aromatic roasted potatoes, infused with the warmth of thyme and rosemary. Perfect for any meal, from weeknight dinners to special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Idaho potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potato wedges with olive oil, chopped thyme, and dried rosemary until they’re evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potatoes in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loaded Idaho Potato Skins
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these indulgent loaded potato skins! Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with savory fillings, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large Idaho potatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon
– 1/4 cup diced green onions
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about 1/8 inch thick shell.
3. In a bowl, mix together cheese, bacon, and green onions.
4. Stuff each potato skin with the filling mixture, dividing it evenly among the four skins.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the filled potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Idaho Potato Gratin
A rich and comforting side dish perfect for any occasion, this creamy potato gratin is a flavorful twist on the classic baked potato.
Ingredients:
– 3 large Idaho potatoes, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the potato slices for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and stir until smooth.
4. Arrange a layer of potatoes in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour some of the cream mixture over the potatoes, followed by a sprinkle of cheddar cheese. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves (if using). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Idaho Potato Pancakes
Savor the taste of crispy, golden pancakes infused with the natural sweetness of Idaho potatoes. Perfect as a side dish or as a base for your favorite toppings, these fluffy treats are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Idaho potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine grated potatoes, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Drop spoonfuls of potato mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with spatula.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove pancakes from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes per batch
Twice-Baked Idaho Potatoes
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. These twice-baked potatoes are filled with a creamy, cheesy goodness that will become your new favorite side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 large Idaho potatoes
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel.
3. Poke some holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape.
4. Bake the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the oven for 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 10-15 minutes.
6. Scoop out most of the potato flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch thick walls.
7. In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, sour cream, grated cheese, and chopped chives or scallions.
8. Stuff each potato shell with the creamy mixture and place them on a baking sheet.
9. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are heated through and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: Total cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.
Idaho Potato and Leek Soup
This rich and comforting soup is a perfect blend of smooth potatoes and sweet leeks, finished with a hint of creaminess. A delicious and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large Idaho potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the sliced leeks to the pot and cook until they’re tender and lightly browned, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, salt, and pepper to the pot. Pour in enough water to cover the potatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness to the soup.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spicy Idaho Potato Wedges
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these crispy and flavorful potato wedges! Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large Idaho potatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the potatoes into wedges, about 1 inch thick.
3. In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the potato wedges to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the wedges in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
7. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the wedges during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Idaho Potato Hash with Eggs
Start your day off right with a hearty and flavorful Idaho potato hash topped with eggs. This simple recipe is perfect for breakfast or brunch, and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Idaho potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as chives or parsley) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
4. Make 2-3 wells in the potato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
5. Cook the eggs to desired doneness, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Idaho Potato and Cheddar Pierogies
These savory pierogies are filled with the comforting combination of mashed Idaho potatoes and sharp cheddar cheese, making them a perfect snack or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Idaho potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– Water, as needed
– Cooking oil or butter, for frying
Instructions:
1. Boil the chopped potatoes until tender, then mash and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, grated cheddar cheese, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. Beat in the egg until a dough forms. If too sticky, add a small amount of water.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
6. Fry the pierogies in hot oil or melted butter until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings or sides.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Idaho Potato Salad with Dill
This classic potato salad gets a refreshing twist with the addition of fresh dill and a tangy dressing, making it perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any outdoor gathering. The natural sweetness of the Idaho potatoes pairs beautifully with the bright flavor of the dill.
Ingredients:
– 4 large Idaho potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, dill, mustard, and vinegar.
4. Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl and toss until coated with the dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (boiling time)
Idaho Potato and Rosemary Focaccia
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of Idaho potatoes with the earthy flavor of rosemary to create a unique and delicious focaccia. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for sandwiches, this flavorful bread is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Idaho potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, yeast, and warm water. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the yeast to activate.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle.
6. Sprinkle chopped rosemary on top of the focaccia and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Idaho Potato and Chorizo Tacos
A twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the creamy richness of mashed Idaho potatoes with the bold flavor of chorizo sausage. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a unique addition to your next taco Tuesday.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large Idaho potatoes
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook the chorizo sausage over medium-high heat until browned and crispy.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Mash the cooked potatoes with a fork or potato masher.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning mashed potatoes, chorizo mixture, and desired toppings onto each tortilla.
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Idaho Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter
This recipe combines the comfort of homemade gnocchi with the warmth of sage butter, creating a cozy and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Idaho potatoes
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 stick unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Boil potatoes until tender, then drain and mash.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, flour, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope.
5. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook gnocchi for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped sage leaves and cook for 1 minute.
8. Serve cooked gnocchi with warm sage butter and Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Idaho Potato and Spinach Quiche
Idaho Potato and Spinach Quiche: A delicious twist on traditional quiche, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of Idaho potatoes with the earthy flavor of spinach for a satisfying brunch or dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 large Idaho potato, peeled and diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the diced potato and spinach in butter until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
4. Arrange the cooked potato and spinach mixture evenly over the pie crust.
5. Top with grated cheese and pour in the heavy cream mixed with beaten egg.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Idaho Potato and Mushroom Stew
A comforting and flavorful stew perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of Idaho potatoes with the earthy taste of mushrooms. With tender chunks of potato and savory mushroom broth, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large Idaho potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the cubed potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 18 creamy Idaho potato recipes, perfect for comfort food lovers! From classic mashed potatoes to innovative dishes like loaded potato skins and potato gnocchi with sage butter, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at cheesy casseroles, soups, and stews, or go the breakfast route with potato pancakes and hash with eggs. And don’t forget about the savory potato salads and quiches! These recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
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