The Creamiest Mashed Potatoes

Makes 6 servings

5 to 6 potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

3-oz. pkg. cream cheese, thinly sliced and softened

3 T. butter, softened

4 to 5 T. half-and-half or milk

2 cloves garlic, minced

salt and pepper to taste

2 T. fresh chives, snipped, or 3 T. dried chives

Garnish: additional butter

Cover potatoes with water in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Boil potatoes until tender when pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes once they begin to boil. Drain; mash with either a hand masher or an electric mixer on medium speed. Add cream cheese, butter, half-and-half or milk, garlic, salt and pepper. Mix well until butter and cream cheese are melted. Fold in chives; top with a dollop or two of butter.

Create a cheerful, harvest table runner. Lay sunflower blooms down the center of the table and surround with small, brightly colored gourds and pumpkins.