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This Christmas, my family renamed it ‘Holiday Hug in a Bowl’ because it’s requested at every gathering!.

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### **The Key Ingredients**

What makes the “Holiday Hug in a Bowl” so unforgettable? It’s the perfect combination of simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a rich and indulgent dish. Each ingredient contributes its own flavor and texture, resulting in a dish that’s satisfying without being overwhelming. Let’s break down the key components of this recipe:

#### **1. Potatoes: The Heart of the Dish**

Potatoes are the foundation of “Holiday Hug in a Bowl.” Their creamy texture and ability to absorb the flavors around them make them the perfect base for this dish. I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes, as they have a natural creaminess that makes them ideal for mashed or creamy dishes. The soft, buttery texture of these potatoes adds a rich depth to the dish that’s essential for that comforting feeling.

You can cut the potatoes into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. Cubes create a chunkier texture, while slices give the dish a smoother, more uniform consistency. The potatoes are boiled until tender, then mashed or blended into a velvety texture that forms the heart of the dish.

#### **2. Cream: Rich and Luxurious**

No holiday dish is complete without a little indulgence, and this is where the cream comes in. Heavy cream, with its smooth and silky texture, brings a luxurious quality to the dish. When added to the potatoes, it transforms them into something rich and comforting—perfect for a winter holiday meal.

For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or milk, but I highly recommend using full-fat heavy cream for the best texture and flavor. It’s the holidays, after all!

#### **3. Garlic: Bold and Flavorful**

Garlic is a flavor powerhouse that adds depth and warmth to any dish. In this recipe, the garlic is sautéed in butter to create a fragrant base that infuses the potatoes and cream with its bold, savory flavor. The garlic complements the creaminess of the potatoes and adds just the right amount of bite to the dish.

If you prefer a more subtle garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic before adding it to the dish. Roasting garlic brings out its natural sweetness, which creates a softer, mellower flavor profile.

#### **4. Cheese: Sharp and Creamy**

A little bit of cheese goes a long way in enhancing the overall richness of the dish. I use a combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese, which provides a balance of sharpness and creaminess. The sharp cheddar melts beautifully into the potatoes, while the Parmesan adds a subtle nuttiness that elevates the flavor.

Feel free to experiment with other cheeses if you prefer. Gruyère, Gouda, or even a bit of cream cheese can all be great alternatives to suit your taste.

#### **5. Fresh Herbs: Fragrant and Bright**

Fresh herbs are essential to brighten up the richness of this dish. I like to use a combination of rosemary and thyme, both of which have a woody, aromatic flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.

If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs can also work, but be sure to use them sparingly, as dried herbs tend to be more potent than fresh ones.

#### **6. Butter: For Extra Creaminess**

To bring everything together, a little butter is essential. The butter adds richness and a velvety texture to the mashed potatoes, making the dish feel extra indulgent. I use unsalted butter to control the level of salt in the dish, but feel free to use salted butter if you prefer.

### **How to Make “Holiday Hug in a Bowl”**

Now that we’ve broken down the key ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Here’s how you can make your very own “Holiday Hug in a Bowl.” This recipe is simple to follow, and you can easily adjust it to suit your preferences.

**Ingredients:**
– 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste

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