Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a creamy, dreamy side dish that will steal the spotlight at any gathering, then you’ve found it! These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are pure comfort in a bowl. The rich, nutty flavor from the browned butter mixed with the creaminess of the potatoes creates a harmony that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting family for dinner or simply enjoying a cozy weeknight meal, these potatoes are your ticket to happiness.

This recipe has become a staple in my household. It’s not just for special occasions; it’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without too much fuss. Trust me, once you try these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, they’ll become your go-to side dish too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for any night of the week.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! They are a crowd-pleaser at gatherings and family dinners.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare these ahead of time and reheat them, saving you stress during busy meal times.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of browned butter and horseradish adds a unique twist that elevates classic mashed potatoes.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients. You probably already have most of them in your kitchen! These components come together beautifully to create the ultimate comfort food experience.

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some veggies: Mix in steamed broccoli or roasted garlic for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
• Try different cheeses: Swap out Parmesan for cheddar or goat cheese for a different taste profile.
• Herb infusion: Experiment with herbs like thyme or chives instead of parsley to give your mashed potatoes a fresh twist.
• Spicy kick: For those who enjoy heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more horseradish sauce!

How to Make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to boil. Scrub those red potatoes clean and chop them into equal-sized pieces—about 1 to 2 inches works best. The smaller they are, the faster they will cook! Once boiling, add the potatoes and lower the heat to medium. Simmer them for about 20-35 minutes until fork-tender. Perfectly cooked potatoes are key for that creamy texture we all love!

Step 2: Drain and Mash

Once your potatoes are fork-tender, drain them well and return them to the pot or place them in a large bowl. Now it’s time to add all those delicious ingredients: milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, parsley, and Parmesan. Grab your potato masher (or hand mixer) and mash away until smooth and creamy! Don’t forget to taste as you go; adding horseradish sauce will give an extra zing that makes these mashed potatoes truly unforgettable.

Step 3: Brown the Butter

In a separate pot or skillet over medium heat, melt your butter while stirring every couple of minutes with a wooden spoon. Watch carefully as it starts foaming; this is where the magic happens! Soon enough, it will turn brown with tiny specks forming at the bottom. The aroma will be nutty and divine! Once browned to perfection, pour it into a bowl immediately to stop cooking—this step ensures you get that beautiful flavor without burning.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

At this point, you can either mix all that glorious brown butter right into your mashed potatoes or let everyone drizzle their portion over each serving—because honestly, who doesn’t love drizzling butter? Either way, prepare yourself for compliments galore as everyone digs in! Enjoy every bite of these wonderfully rich Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes is easy with a little know-how! Here are some tips to elevate your dish and impress your family and friends.

• Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and flavor, but you can also use Yukon Golds for a buttery taste. Just make sure they’re all similar in size for even cooking.
• Don’t rush the browning process: Patience is key when browning butter. The nutty aroma and deep flavor that come from properly browned butter are worth the wait!
• Taste as you go: This is crucial! Start with the recommended amount of horseradish sauce and add more based on your preference. Everyone’s palate is different, so adjust to your liking.
• Use warm milk and sour cream: Adding these ingredients warm helps them blend seamlessly into the potatoes, creating a creamy consistency without cooling down your dish.
• Mash, don’t whip: For the best texture, mash your potatoes gently. Over-mixing can lead to a gluey consistency, so take it easy!

How to Serve Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Presentation is everything when it comes to serving these delicious Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes. Here are some creative ideas to make your dish shine on any table.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives or green onions: These add a fresh pop of color and flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the potatoes.
• Extra grated Parmesan: A sprinkle on top not only looks beautiful but also enhances that cheesy goodness we all love.
• A drizzle of browned butter: Letting guests drizzle their own brown butter over their serving not only looks inviting but adds an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy veggies provide a delightful contrast to the creamy potatoes while adding a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully.
• Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots bring a touch of sweetness that balances out the savory mashed potatoes perfectly.
• Herb-Crusted Chicken: Juicy chicken breast seasoned with fragrant herbs complements the richness of the mashed potatoes without overpowering them.
• Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with garlic and olive oil offer a fresh crunch that rounds out this comforting meal.

There you have it! Whether you’re serving these at a holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes will surely steal the show!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance, making your dinner or holiday gathering effortless. Here’s how to store them properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Cool the mashed potatoes thoroughly.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Don’t forget to label!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if they seem dry.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes:

Can I make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these delicious mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Follow the storage instructions above for optimal freshness.

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

The best way to reheat Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes is on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little milk if necessary. This will keep them creamy and flavorful.

Can I substitute any ingredients in Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

Yes! You can use plant-based milk instead of dairy milk and opt for a non-dairy sour cream alternative if desired. Feel free to adjust seasonings according to your taste!

How do I achieve perfectly creamy Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

To achieve that creamy texture, make sure not to over-mash the potatoes and add enough milk and sour cream as needed while mashing.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes! They’re not just a side dish; they’re an experience that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts after trying out this recipe!