Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed 3 lbs russet potatoes and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Allow them to steam dry for a few minutes.
3 lbs russet potatoes
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the 2 medium shallots and sauté until golden and crispy, about 5 minutes. Stir in the 1 cup panko breadcrumbs3 cloves garlic, and 1 tbsp fresh sage, cooking until the breadcrumbs are golden brown, 2-3 minutes. Season with 1 tsp salt and transfer the mixture to a plate to cool.
2 medium shallots, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp fresh sage, 1 tsp salt, 3 cloves garlic
Mash the potatoes using a ricer and add to the bowl of an electric mixer. Add the 4 tbsp unsalted butter and ½ cup cream cheese and mix on low speed to combine. Add the ½ cup heavy cream and ½ cup whole milk and increase the speed to medium. Whip the potatoes for 2-3 minutes until fluffy and combined.
4 tbsp unsalted butter, ½ cup heavy cream, ½ cup cream cheese, ½ cup whole milk
Fold in the shredded 1 cup Gruyere cheese and mix until melted and fully incorporated. Season with 2 tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper to taste.
1 cup Gruyere cheese, 2 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish. Sprinkle the crispy shallot breadcrumbs generously over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, crunchy perfection!