CREAM CHEESE RANCH MASHED POTATOES

3 lb russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch cubes

1 pkg (8-oz) cream cheese, softened

1 cup sour cream

1/2 cup butter, softened, plus a pat for serving

1 pkg (1-oz dry ranch seasoning

Chopped parsley or fresh dill for garnish, optional

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain. Return to the pot and mash.

Meanwhile, mix cream cheese, sour cream. bitter and ranch seasoning with an electric mixer at medium-low speed in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in the mashed potatoes and beat just until desired consistency.

To serve, top potatoes with a pat of butter and the fresh dill or parsley.

Variation: Stir in some chopped green onions and crumbled cooked bacon.

Yield: 8 servings

file photo