MASHED POTATOES AU GRATIN

[Kitchen Witch]

MASHED POTATOES AU GRATIN

7 medium-sized potatoes (slightly over 2 lbs), peeled and quartered
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream, approximately
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, or similar grated cheese
1/2 cup fine bread crumbs

Cook the potatoes in boiling water until tender. Drain and dry over heat in the pan.
Put through a potato ricer into a bowl. Add the butter, salt, and pepper, and blend well. Gradually blend in the cream until you have the desired consistency.
The mixture should not be too thin.
Spoon the potatoes into a shallow buttered baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with a mixture of the cheese and bread crumbs. Bake in a preheated 400°. oven until heated through and golden on top. Or, if the potatoes are still very hot, place under broiler until golden brown.