Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that will make you the star of any gathering, look no further than these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes. There’s something truly magical about the combination of creamy potatoes blended with rich, nutty brown butter. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated a holiday or family dinner without them! These mashed potatoes are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, bringing comfort and joy to every table.

This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s also about simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients and some straightforward steps, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy enough for any night of the week. So gather your loved ones and prepare to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes come together in under 40 minutes, making them perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family Favorite: With their creamy texture and rich flavor, they’ll become a staple at your family gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare them ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.
• Customizable Flavor: Add your favorite spices or toppings to make these potatoes uniquely yours!
• Impressive Presentation: The drizzle of brown butter will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up these delicious Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes. Each one plays an important role in creating that creamy texture and rich flavor we all love.

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 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!)

For the Brown Butter

• 3/4 cup butter

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with flavors and textures that suit your taste.

• Add Some Spice: Incorporate roasted garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra punch.
• Creamy Alternatives: Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
• Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or goat cheese for unique flavors.
• Vegan Option: Swap butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly version.

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 1-2 inches works perfectly. This helps them cook evenly and quickly! Once boiling, add the potatoes and reduce the heat to medium. Let them simmer until fork-tender, which usually takes around 20-35 minutes depending on size.

Step 2: Mash It Up

Once your potatoes are tender, drain them well and return them to the pot or transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Now it’s time to add in all that creamy goodness! Pour in the milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, parsley, and Parmesan. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash everything together until smooth. Don’t forget to add some horseradish sauce—it adds a delightful kick!

Step 3: Brown the Butter

In a separate pot or skillet over medium heat, add your butter. Stir occasionally as it melts down; you’ll notice it starts foaming after a couple of minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’re aiming for that gorgeous nutty aroma as it turns golden brown with tiny specks forming at the bottom—a sign it’s ready. Pour it into a bowl immediately to stop further cooking.

Step 4: Serve It Up!

Now comes the best part! You can either mix all that luscious brown butter directly into your mashed potatoes or let everyone drizzle it over their servings—because who doesn’t love drizzling warm butter? Either way, get ready for some compliments!

Enjoy these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes as they steal the show at your next family meal or holiday feast!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Making perfect Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes is all about the little details that elevate your dish to heavenly status. Here are some tips to help you achieve mashed potato perfection!

• Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture and ability to hold up well when mashed. They create a smooth consistency without being gummy.

• Don’t skip the horseradish: Adding horseradish sauce gives your mashed potatoes a delightful kick that balances the richness of the butter. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preference.

• Brown the butter carefully: Watch your butter closely as it cooks. The nutty aroma and color change are key indicators that it’s ready. This step adds depth of flavor, making your mashed potatoes truly special.

• Mash while warm: For the best texture, mash your potatoes while they’re still warm. This ensures they absorb the butter and cream more effectively, resulting in creamy, dreamy goodness.

• Taste and adjust: Before serving, always taste your mashed potatoes and adjust the seasonings as needed. A pinch more salt or pepper can make all the difference in enhancing flavors.

How to Serve Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

When it comes to serving your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, presentation is key! Here are some fun ideas to make this delicious side dish shine on your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives or scallions: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the potatoes.
• Crumbled feta or goat cheese: For a tangy twist, add crumbled cheese on top. It contrasts beautifully with the buttery goodness and adds another layer of flavor.
• Toasted nuts: A handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts can provide a delightful crunch that enhances both texture and taste.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their caramelized edges and earthy flavor pair wonderfully with buttery mashed potatoes, creating a comforting autumn vibe.
• Garlic green beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic add a snap to your meal and balance out the creaminess of the potatoes with their bright freshness.
• Herb-crusted chicken: Juicy chicken breast seasoned with fresh herbs makes for an excellent protein option that complements the richness of brown butter.
• Savory stuffed mushrooms: These flavorful morsels bring umami to your table and offer a delightful contrast to creamy mashed potatoes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience around your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance and enjoy the rich, buttery flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store them properly:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the potatoes completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, leaving some room for expansion.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring regularly until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes.

Can I make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes without sour cream?

Yes! You can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative for a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.

How do I achieve the perfect consistency for Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

To get creamy mashed potatoes, make sure not to over-mash. Start with your ingredients at room temperature and add milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

What should I serve with Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or your favorite plant-based protein. They’re versatile enough to complement any main dish!

Are Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They are great for meal prep because you can easily store them in advance and reheat when needed.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They’re a comforting side dish that promises to elevate any meal. With their rich flavors and creamy texture, they’re sure to become a favorite at your dining table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with seasonings or share your own twist on this recipe. Happy cooking!