Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that will elevate any meal, look no further than Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes. This recipe combines the creamy comfort of classic mashed potatoes with the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a staple at your family gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. Whether you’re serving up a festive feast or just enjoying a cozy evening at home, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create something truly special that everyone will rave about. Plus, the addition of horseradish gives it an unexpected kick that makes it even more delightful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect even for beginner cooks.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes will be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare them in advance and reheat them easily, making dinner prep a breeze.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of browned butter, garlic, and parmesan creates a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.
• Versatile Dish: Suitable for any occasion—from casual weeknight meals to holiday feasts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these fantastic Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. They come together beautifully to create the ultimate comfort food experience!

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 Browned Butter

• 3/4 cup butter

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Extra Veggies: Stir in some roasted garlic or steamed cauliflower for added nutrition and flavor.
• Change Up the Cheese: Swap out parmesan for another cheese like cheddar or gouda for a different twist.
• Herb It Up: Experiment with different herbs like chives or thyme instead of parsley for a unique taste.
• Creamy Alternative: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free sour cream for a lighter option without losing the creamy texture.

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, then chop them into equal-sized pieces—about 1-2 inches works best. Smaller pieces cook faster, ensuring they turn tender more quickly!

Step 2: Cook Until Tender

Add the chopped potatoes to the boiling water and cook on medium heat for about 20-35 minutes. You want them fork-tender! Once they reach that perfect texture, drain the water and return them to the pot or transfer them to a large bowl.

Step 3: Add Creaminess and Flavor

Now it’s time to add all those delicious ingredients! Mix in your milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash everything together until creamy and smooth. Don’t forget to add some horseradish sauce; taste as you go so you get just the right amount of zing!

Step 4: Brown the Butter

In a separate pot or skillet, melt your butter over medium heat. Stir it every minute or so. After a couple minutes, watch closely as it begins to foam. Keep stirring until it turns brown with tiny specks—it should smell nutty! This step makes all the difference in flavor.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

You have two options here: either mix all that beautiful browned butter into your mashed potatoes or let everyone drizzle it over their servings. Personally, I love the idea of drizzling—there’s something so satisfying about it!

Enjoy your heavenly Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes—your friends and family will thank you!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Making Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes can be a delightful experience, and a few simple tips can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes are great for a creamy texture, but feel free to experiment with Yukon Golds for an extra buttery flavor. The type of potato you use can change the creaminess and taste of your mashed potatoes.

• Don’t rush the browning process: Allow the butter to brown slowly over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This patience will reward you with a rich, nutty flavor that transforms your mashed potatoes into something truly special.

• Adjust the horseradish to taste: Start with 1 teaspoon and gradually add more if you prefer a spicier kick. This customization lets you tailor the flavors to your liking and personal preferences.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your milk and sour cream to come to room temperature before adding them to the potatoes. This will help create a smoother mash without cooling down your potatoes too much.

• Keep it warm before serving: If you’re making these ahead of time, keep the mashed potatoes warm in a slow cooker on low heat or covered in a warm oven until you’re ready to serve. This ensures they stay deliciously fluffy and inviting!

How to Serve Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Serving Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes is just as important as making them! Here are some fun and creative ideas to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives or green onions: Sprinkling these on top adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the potatoes.
• Crumbled feta or goat cheese: A bit of tangy cheese adds an exciting flavor contrast that elevates each bite.
• Toasted nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans not only add crunch but also introduce earthy tones that balance well with the creamy texture.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy veggies bring a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, making them a perfect companion for rich mashed potatoes.
• Herb-roasted chicken: Juicy herb-seasoned chicken pairs beautifully with the buttery goodness of mashed potatoes, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Garlic sautéed green beans: The bright green color and garlic infusion provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mash, keeping your palate engaged.
• Creamy coleslaw: A cool, crunchy coleslaw offers textural variety and its tangy dressing helps cut through the creaminess of the mashed potatoes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every buttery bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep those creamy potatoes fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the mashed potatoes cool down, then portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze without adding the brown butter; you can add it later when reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add extra milk or butter as needed to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

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

Can I make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat before serving for that fresh taste!

What makes Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes so special?

The addition of brown butter adds a nutty flavor that elevates classic mashed potatoes to something truly unique and delicious.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes! While red potatoes create a creamy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or even Russet potatoes if you prefer.

How do I adjust the horseradish sauce in Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

Start with a teaspoon and gradually add more to taste. This allows you to control the spiciness according to your preference!

Final Thoughts

Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re a celebration of flavor and comfort on your table. I hope you have as much fun making this recipe as I do sharing it with family and friends. Enjoy every buttery bite, and don’t forget to drizzle that brown butter on top! Happy cooking!