Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes

From 30 Day Gourmet. My DH and kids think these are the BEST mashed potatoes. I don't make them this way every time, but they like it when I do!

• Ready In: 1 hr
• Serves: 8-10

Ingredients

• 5  lbs potatoes
• 1  egg
• 1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3  tablespoons butter, melted
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 8  ounces cream cheese
• 1⁄4 cup  almonds, sliced (optional)
•  paprika (optional)
• 1⁄4 cup bacon, cooked & crumbled
• 1⁄2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions

1. Peel and quarter potatoes.
2. Place the potatoes in a saucepan and cover.
3. completely with water.
4. Bring to a boil, then gently cook until tender.
5. Drain well.
6. In large bowl, combine potatoes, cream cheese, egg, garlic powder and salt.
7. Mash well by hand or with an electric mixer.
8. Spoon potatoes into spray-treated or greased 3 quart casserole or 9x13 pan.
9. Drizzle or brush melted butter over potatoes.
10. Sprinkle with almonds (optional) and paprika (optional), or top with bacon and/or cheese if desired.
11. Refrigerate for up to 2 days or label and freeze for later.
12. Freezing and Cooking Directions:.
13. Label and freeze in freezer bags or rigid freezer containers.
14. To serve, thaw completely.
15. Bake at 375 for 30-40 minutes until the top is golden.