Nothing says comfort food like mashed potatoes. Serve them with meatloaf or anything else. Form leftovers into patties and cook them like a burger, or mix them with shredded cheese and bake in a casserole for an easy version of scalloped potatoes.

Serves 6 to 8.

3 pounds small red potatoes, peeled, if desired, and quartered
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup unsalted butter at room temperature
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Kosher salt and black pepper to taste

1. Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil over high heat. Lower the heat to medium and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.

2. Drain the potatoes and place them in a medium-size mixing bowl. Mash with a fork or potato masher, gradually incorporating the remaining ingredients. Serve immediately.

From The $50 Dinner Party: 26 Dinner Parties That Won’t Break Your Bank, Your Back, or Your Schedule (Simon & Schuster, 1998)