I love this dish, as you can make mashed potatoes in advance and then bake them off at the last minute -- no mashing while trying to get everything on the table. Stress-buster! These are basically twice baked potatoes without the skins. I make a huge dish of these regardless of how many people are coming. I think I have 8 people this year, don't even know, but there will be enough food for the US Army.

• 12 russett potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 - 5 garlic cloves, whole
• 2 cup of heavy cream (it's Thanksgiving, for Pete's sake!)
• 1 stick of butter. Or more. Don't be shy.
• 1 lb. of grated cheddar (see above, it's the holidays)
• 3 - 4 TBSP. of minced fresh sage
• 2 tsp. each salt and pepper
• Old Bay Seasoning

Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork tender. Throw 4 - 5 whole garlic cloves into the water right near the end. Drain well and reserve in a colander.

Using the same pot, melt the stick of butter (or more) and add the heavy cream. Return the potatoes to the pot. I use a potato ricer to get a good texture on them, garlic cloves and all. Add salt and pepper to taste, add the cheese and the sage, and give it a good stir.

Place the whole she-bang in a buttered casserole dish, spread it out all fancy, maybe even make a cross-hatch pattern with a fork, then sprinkle with Old Bay Seasoning. I went rustic this year and as we discussed, I have enough for the US Army and they barely fit in the dish. This can sit covered in your refrigerator for a day or two before Thanksgiving. Like I said, stress-buster!

When it is time to bake it, remove from the fridge and let it get close to room temperature. Bake at 350 degrees uncovered for 20 - 25 minutes or until perfectly browned, which conveniently should be the exact time and temperature your stuffing should take. Win-win.

The beauty of this dish is three-fold. 1. make-ahead. 2. cook two things and once, and 3. super delicious! One could add bacon, sour cream, scallions, etc. I'm full just thinking about it. Send me pictures of yours, and enjoy your holidays!!