Mashed Potatoes with Chili and Cheese Bowl

A super quick basic meal, easily made in minutes, is perfect when everyone is starving. Basically, it’s only 3 ingredients, using ready made products, or work some leftover magic and use leftover mashed potatoes from the fridge and leftover chili from the fridge or freezer. It really doesn’t take long to thaw out the chili if frozen in a flat freezer bag. Add a large spoonful or two of corn if you want to change it up or bulk up the meal.

My first thought when I saw this recipe served on a plate was definitely an “Ewww”, but then I remembered I have seen loaded baked potatoes with chili and cheese at a number of restaurants through the years. Since mashed potatoes aren’t that far off from baked, I decided to give it a try.

Although I always have a can or two of canned chili in the pantry, I opted to use some leftover homemade chili I had in the freezer. I also always have a few packages of instant potatoes for when I am in a huge rush.

Granted, it’s nothing fancy, but sometimes cheap and easy hits the spot. I have to admit though, Hubby and I were both pleasantly surprised with how well it turned out and agree this would be great meal occasionally.

How to Serve Mashed Potatoes with Chili

This can be plated in a number of ways.

• The potatoes and chili can be placed side by side on a plate, with shredded cheese on top of both.
• In a bowl, layer potatoes on the bottom, next spread a layer of chili, and then top with cheddar cheese.
• Same as above, adding corn between the potatoes and chili.
• Double the recipe, and then spread mashed potatoes in the bottom of a casserole dish, corn in the middle if desired, top with chili and shredded cheese.
• To get really fancy, substitute baked potatoes for the mashed, then add chili and cheese on top.

Finishing Touches

This simple dish can be dressed up a bit by adding a spoonful of sour cream and chopped chives to the top.

Cornbread or cornbread muffins always pair well with chili, too.

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Mashed Potatoes with Chili and Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 – 4 oz package flavored instant mashed potatoes (garlic, loaded baked, etc) Can also use leftover mashed potatoes.
• 2 cups left over chili (or 14 oz canned chili, if desired)
• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• Optional: 1 can corn, drained and heated

Directions

1. Prepare instant mashed potatoes according to package directions
2. Heat chili (on stove top or in microwave)
3. Prepare bowls or plates with mashed potatoes, chili (plus heated corn if desired) and then sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the potatoes and chili

Inspired by https://idahoan.com/recipe/mashed-potatoes-with-chili-and-cheese/

Easy Emergency Meal

Another plus with this meal, is that in case of an emergency, it could actually be an easy 2-ingredient meal using just instant potatoes and a can of chili. If near boiling water is accessible, a package of Idahoan brand flavored instant potatoes makes up with only plain hot water.

Thanks for visiting!

Robin