Cheddar Ranch Mashed Potatoes

How pretty is that cheddar spiral? As you serve these ranch-spiked mashed spuds, the melted cheese is woven into every spoonful. The act of serving is as awesome as the presentation!

About the ranch dressing: I like to use both powdered ranch dip mix and bottled ranch dressing. The powder adds more seasoning, and is less diluted that the dressing. That said, you need the dressing for creaminess.

Cheddar Ranch Mashed Potatoes

1 1/2 pounds russet/baking potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
1/2 cup ranch dressing, or more if needed
2 tablespoons powdered ranch dip mix
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and ground black pepper
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Parsley leaves for serving, optional

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Place the potatoes in a large saucepan and pour over enough cold water to cover by about 2 inches. Set the pan over high heat and bring to a boil. Boil for 12 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and return the potatoes to the pan. Add the ranch dressing, ranch dip mix, and butter. Mash until smooth, adding more ranch dressing if necessary. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Spoon the potatoes into a shallow baking dish and, using a spoon or your finger, make a spiral groove, like this:

Fill the groove with the cheddar cheese. 

Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Uncover and bake for 5 more minutes. 

Garnish with parsley if desired! 

Serves 4