Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that steals the show, you’ve come to the right place! Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. There’s something magical about combining the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter with creamy, fluffy potatoes. It’s comfort food at its finest and perfect for any gathering or busy weeknight dinner. Trust me, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds!

These mashed potatoes are not just for special occasions; they can easily elevate your weeknight meals too. So grab your favorite potato peeler and let’s dive into this unforgettable recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have creamy mashed potatoes ready in no time.
• Flavor-packed: The addition of brown butter and horseradish gives these potatoes an incredible depth of flavor.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner, these mashed potatoes will be the star of the show.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare them in advance and reheat them when you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes. You might already have most of these in your pantry!

• 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 Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes is how flexible they are! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Add some greens: Stir in sautéed spinach or kale for an extra health boost and beautiful color.
• Try different cheeses: Swap out Parmesan for cheddar or feta to give your potatoes a whole new flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños if you like a little heat in your mashed potatoes.
• Herb-infused goodness: Experiment with different herbs like chives or rosemary for a fresh twist.

How to Make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by bringing a large pot of water to boil. Scrub the red potatoes clean and chop them into equal-sized pieces—about 1-2 inches works well. Smaller pieces cook faster, so this can save you some time! Once boiling, add the potatoes and let them simmer until they’re fork-tender, about 20-35 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

When the potatoes are tender, drain them well and return them to the pot or transfer them to a large bowl. Now it’s time to add all that creamy goodness! Mix in your milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, parsley, and grated Parmesan. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash everything together until smooth. Don’t forget to taste it before adding more horseradish sauce—you want just the right amount of kick!

Step 3: Brown the Butter

Now for the magic ingredient—brown butter! In a separate pot or skillet over medium heat, melt your butter while stirring every minute or so. Watch closely as it foams and eventually turns golden brown with little specks floating around. This nutty aroma means it’s done! Pour it into a bowl immediately so it doesn’t cook further.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

You have two options here: you can mix all that delicious brown butter directly into your mashed potatoes or serve it on the side so everyone can drizzle their own portions. Personally, I love drizzling—it makes each bite feel special!

And there you have it—your very own batch of scrumptious Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes is all about those little details that elevate your dish. Here are some tips to ensure your mashed potatoes turn out creamy and flavorful every time!

• Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes or Yukon Golds are ideal for mashing due to their creamy texture. They hold up well when boiled and create a luscious mash.
• Don’t rush the browning process: When cooking the butter, patience is key. Take your time to let it develop that beautiful nutty flavor, which will truly enhance the overall taste of your mashed potatoes.
• Warm ingredients matter: Using warm milk and sour cream helps maintain the temperature of the mashed potatoes, preventing them from becoming gummy.
• Taste as you go: Adding ingredients like horseradish can vary in intensity, so taste frequently to achieve your desired flavor balance. This ensures you create a personalized dish just right for your palate.
• Consider leftovers wisely: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat them gently on the stove with a splash of milk to bring back that creamy goodness.

How to Serve Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Serving your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes can be as delightful as making them! A few thoughtful touches can make this comforting dish even more special at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the mashed potatoes.
• Extra grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top before serving brings an irresistible cheesy quality and enhances the overall presentation.
• Olive oil drizzle: For an added touch of elegance, drizzle a little high-quality olive oil over the top for a glossy finish and extra depth of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlicky green beans: Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic provide a crunchy contrast to the creaminess of the mashed potatoes, creating a satisfying balance on your plate.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy veggies add a wonderful caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with buttery potatoes while providing a nutritious element to your meal.
• Herb-roasted chicken: Juicy roasted chicken seasoned with herbs complements the rich flavors in your mashed potatoes, making it a classic combination everyone will love.
• Cranberry sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce offers a refreshing contrast against the savory notes of brown butter mash, enhancing each bite with its sweet-tart zing.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes will not only be delicious but also shine as the star side dish at any table! Enjoy crafting this comforting recipe and savoring every mouthful with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep and can easily be made ahead of time. Whether you’re getting ready for a family gathering or planning your weeknight meals, these mashed potatoes will save you time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer them into an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the mashed potatoes completely before freezing them.
• Spoon the potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk as needed to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.

FAQs

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

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

Yes! While red potatoes provide a creamy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or even russet potatoes. Each variety will offer a unique flavor and texture.

How do I make my Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes extra creamy?

To achieve extra creaminess, consider adding more milk or sour cream than the recipe suggests. You can also use cream instead of milk for a richer taste.

Can I prepare Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes in advance?

Absolutely! These mashed potatoes are great for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions above to enjoy them later!

What can I serve with Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

These delicious mashed potatoes pair well with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or your favorite vegetarian dishes. They’re versatile enough to complement any main course!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They bring comfort and warmth to any meal, making it extra special. Remember that cooking is all about sharing love through food; so don’t hesitate to invite family and friends over to enjoy this delightful dish together. Happy cooking!