Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that makes your taste buds dance, look no further than these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes. This recipe is not just about mashed potatoes; it’s about transforming a beloved classic into something truly special. The nutty aroma of browned butter combined with creamy potatoes and a hint of horseradish takes comfort food to a whole new level. Whether you’re whipping this up for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it at family gatherings, these mashed potatoes will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to prepare. It’s the perfect blend of simple ingredients and rich flavors, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Plus, they pair beautifully with just about any main course, so you can feel confident serving them at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of browned butter and parmesan brings a unique richness that elevates traditional mashed potatoes.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy texture and savory taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a show-stopping side dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These mashed potatoes can be prepared in advance, making them ideal for holiday meals or busy weeknights.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your family’s tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes truly shine. Thankfully, they are all simple, wholesome items that you likely already have on hand! Here’s what you’ll need:

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

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes by trying one of these variations:

• Add Extra Veggies: Stir in some cooked cauliflower or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cheesy Goodness: Swap in different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a twist on the classic flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like chives or rosemary for a fragrant touch.
• Sweet Potato Twist: Substitute half of the red potatoes with sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter 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 best for even cooking. Add them to the boiling water and let them simmer until fork-tender, which usually takes around 20-35 minutes depending on size. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked potatoes will yield a creamy texture when mashed.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

Once your potatoes are tender, drain them well and return them to the pot or place them in a large mixing bowl. Now it’s time to add in all those flavorful ingredients! Pour in the milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Mixing these together will create that luscious base we all love in mashed potatoes.

Step 3: Mash It Up

Now comes the fun part—mashing! Use either a potato masher or hand mixer to achieve your desired consistency. If you want an extra kick, add in some horseradish sauce at this stage. Give it a taste test; if you enjoy more heat, feel free to mix in additional horseradish until it’s just right.

Step 4: Brown the Butter

In another pot or skillet, add your butter over medium heat. Stir it every minute or two as it begins to foam. Keep an eye on it because we want that beautiful brown color! Once it turns brown with tiny specks at the bottom and releases a nutty aroma—it’s ready! Pour it into a bowl immediately to stop cooking.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Now you have two options: you can stir all that glorious brown butter into your mashed potatoes for an even richer flavor or let everyone drizzle their own over each serving. Personally, I love letting people drizzle their own—it feels special!

And there you have it—Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes that are sure to impress! Enjoy every bite with family and friends; they won’t forget this side dish anytime soon!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect brown butter mashed potatoes is all about finesse and a little love. Here are some tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose the right potatoes: Opting for red potatoes gives you a creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor, making them ideal for mashing. Their waxy nature helps hold moisture better than starchy varieties.

• Don’t rush the browning process: Allowing the butter to brown slowly enhances its nutty flavor, which is key to this recipe. Stir frequently and keep an eye on it; patience pays off with delicious depth of flavor.

• Taste as you go: When adding horseradish sauce, start small and adjust according to your preference. This way, you can control the heat and ensure the flavors balance perfectly.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your milk, sour cream, and butter to room temperature before mixing helps them incorporate more smoothly into the potatoes, resulting in a fluffier mash.

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with garnishes! Fresh herbs or crispy shallots can add texture and flavor that make each bite exciting.

How to Serve Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Serving brown butter mashed potatoes can be as fun as making them! With their rich flavor and creamy texture, they deserve a presentation that does them justice.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh chives: A sprinkle of bright green chives adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the potatoes.

• Crispy shallots: Fried shallots offer a delightful crunch and sweetness that contrasts beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes.

• Cracked black pepper: A simple dusting of freshly cracked pepper not only enhances visual appeal but also adds a subtle kick that balances the dish’s richness.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their slightly bitter flavor provides a perfect contrast to the buttery mashed potatoes. Simply roast with olive oil, salt, and pepper for an easy yet elegant side.

• Honey-glazed carrots: These sweet, tender carrots brighten up any plate while their natural sugars complement the savory notes of the potatoes.

• Garlic green beans: Lightly sautéed green beans tossed with minced garlic add freshness and crunch that harmonizes beautifully with your creamy side dish.

• Creamy mushroom sauce: Drizzle over your mashed potatoes for an added layer of umami goodness. The earthy flavors of mushrooms pair wonderfully with the nutty notes from the browned butter.

Now you’re ready to create a meal that’s not just delicious but also beautifully presented! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time and enjoy their creamy goodness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled mashed potatoes in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
• If you notice any excess moisture, you can drain it off before sealing.

Freezing

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or butter if needed to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes.

Can I make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes without sour cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream for a similar tangy flavor.

How do I achieve the best flavor in my Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

To enhance the flavor of your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, ensure you brown the butter until it’s nutty and fragrant. This step is key to making your mashed potatoes truly special!

Can I add other ingredients to my Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

Yes! Feel free to mix in roasted garlic, chives, or even cheese for extra flavor. Just remember to keep it balanced so the browned butter shines through.

How long do Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes last?

When stored properly in the fridge, they will last for about 3-5 days. They also freeze well for up to 2 months!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They’re a comforting side that adds a dash of elegance to any meal. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, these potatoes are bound to impress. Happy cooking—you’ve got this!