Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that will steal the show at your next gathering, look no further than these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes! They take the classic comfort food we all know and love and elevate it to something truly special. The rich, nutty flavor of browned butter combined with creamy potatoes creates an irresistible dish that everyone will be raving about.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast. Plus, it’s so simple to make that you’ll find yourself turning to it again and again. Trust me, once you serve these mashed potatoes, you might just earn yourself the title of Queen Thanksgiving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible flavor: The combination of brown butter and parmesan adds a depth of flavor that makes these mashed potatoes unforgettable.
• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious side dish without any fuss.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the potatoes in advance and simply reheat them when you’re ready to serve.
• Perfectly customizable: Feel free to adjust the horseradish or add your favorite herbs for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You likely have many of them on hand already!

• 5 pounds red potatoes (chopped into equal size pieces)
• 1/3 cup milk (more as needed)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 3/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2-3 tablespoons parsley (fresh, chopped or 2 teaspoons dried)
• 1/3 cup Parmesan (grated)
• 1 to 5 teaspoons horseradish sauce (taste it!)
• 3/4 cup butter

Variations

This Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to change things up:

• Add cheese: Stir in your favorite cheese like cheddar or gouda for an extra cheesy twist.
• Herb infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chives or thyme for a burst of freshness.
• Creamy alternative: Swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangy kick and added protein.
• Spicy kick: For those who love some heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.

How to Make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by bringing a large pot of water to boil. Scrub your red potatoes clean and chop them into equal-sized pieces—about 1 to 2 inches works well. The smaller they are, the quicker they cook! Once boiling, add the potatoes and reduce the heat to medium. Allow them to simmer until fork-tender, which usually takes about 20-35 minutes depending on their size.

Step 2: Drain and Prepare

When your potatoes are perfectly tender, drain them well in a colander. Return them to the pot or move them into a large bowl. This step is crucial because it helps steam escape from the potatoes, making for fluffier mashed potatoes!

Step 3: Mix in Creaminess

Now comes the fun part! Add your milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, parsley, and Parmesan directly into the warm potatoes. Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash everything together until creamy and smooth. Be sure to taste as you go; if you want more horseradish sauce for some zing, feel free to add it gradually!

Step 4: Brown the Butter

In a separate pot or skillet over medium heat, melt your butter while stirring occasionally. Watch closely as it foams up—this is where magic happens! Keep stirring until it turns golden brown with tiny specks forming at the bottom and gives off a nutty aroma. Once it’s reached that beautiful color, pour it into a bowl immediately to stop cooking.

Step 5: Serve with Style

You can either mix all that gorgeous brown butter right into your mashed potatoes or let guests drizzle it over their servings. I personally love letting people spoon it over their portions—it adds an element of fun! Plus, who doesn’t love drizzling butter?

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes—they’re bound to become a beloved staple at your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes is all about technique and a few little secrets. Here are some pro tips to help you achieve potato perfection!

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Red potatoes are ideal for this recipe since they are waxy and creamy. They hold their shape well and create a smooth, luscious texture when mashed.

• Don’t Rush the Browning Process: When browning butter, patience is key. Allow it to foam and stir frequently until it reaches that beautiful nutty aroma. This depth of flavor is what makes your mashed potatoes truly special.

• Taste as You Go: Horseradish can vary in heat, so start with a small amount and gradually add more to find your desired flavor level. Tasting will ensure you achieve the perfect balance.

• Warm Your Dairy: For creamier potatoes, warm your milk and sour cream before adding them to the potatoes. Cold dairy can cool down the mashed potatoes and make them less fluffy.

• Use a Potato Ricer for Extra Smoothness: If you want ultra-smooth mashed potatoes, try using a potato ricer instead of a masher. It eliminates lumps and gives you that silky texture everyone loves.

How to Serve Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Presentation can take your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes from delicious to dazzling! Here’s how to serve them for maximum impact at your next gathering or weeknight dinner.

Garnishes

• Chopped Chives: Fresh chives add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the potatoes.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper not only enhances flavors but also adds visual appeal.
• Extra Parmesan: Grating some fresh Parmesan on top right before serving elevates both taste and presentation, making it feel more gourmet.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy little gems bring out earthy flavors that pair wonderfully with creamy potatoes. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until golden.

• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéing green beans with garlic gives you a bright, flavorful side that complements the richness of the mashed potatoes beautifully.

• Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed with honey provide a delightful contrast to savory mashed potatoes, adding both color and sweetness to your plate.

• Herb-Crusted Chicken: A simple herb-crusted chicken dish offers protein without overpowering the flavors of your comforting side dish, creating a balanced meal.

Now that you’re equipped with tips for making and serving these heavenly Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, get ready to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every buttery bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip them up in advance, making your holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Portion the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, flatten bags before freezing to save space and ensure even thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of milk or additional butter if they seem dry to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes!

Can I use other types of potatoes for Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! While red potatoes give a creamy texture, you can also use Yukon Golds or even Russets. Just keep in mind that each variety may alter the taste slightly.

How do I make my Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes creamier?

To achieve a creamier texture, you can add more milk or sour cream when mashing. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in some cream cheese for extra richness!

Can I prepare Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! Follow the storage instructions above to make them ahead of time. They are great for meal prep and can be easily reheated!

What is the best way to reheat leftover Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

The best way is on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a bit of milk helps maintain their creamy consistency.

Are Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free. Enjoy without worry!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delicious Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They’re not just a side dish; they have the power to elevate any meal and bring warmth to your table. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, these mashed potatoes will surely impress. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your culinary adventures with me!