Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are already the best side dish of all time. Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes elevate this classic dish to extraordinary levels! The rich, nutty flavor of brown butter combined with creamy potatoes creates a comforting side perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, these mashed potatoes will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The addition of brown butter infuses your mashed potatoes with a nutty richness that is simply irresistible.
• Easy to Make: With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up these delicious mashed potatoes in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with various main dishes, from roasted turkey to grilled chicken, making them a go-to choice for many meals.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the amount of horseradish sauce depending on your taste preferences for an extra kick!
• Creamy Texture: The combination of sour cream and milk creates a smooth and velvety texture that everyone loves.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes requires some essential tools that will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Potato masher or hand mixer
• Skillet or pot for browning butter
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes evenly until they are tender.
• Potato masher or hand mixer: Helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency without overworking the potatoes.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the butter while it browns, allowing you to monitor its color and aroma effectively.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

• 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

How to Make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

1. Bring a large pot of water to boil.
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and chop them into equal-sized pieces (about 1-2 inches).
3. Add the chopped potatoes to the boiling water and lower heat to medium. Simmer for 20–35 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 2: Mash Them Up

1. Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot or transfer them to a large bowl.
2. Add milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Mash everything together using a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth.

Step 3: Brown the Butter

1. In a skillet or small pot over medium heat, add butter.
2. Stir occasionally every 1–2 minutes until it starts foaming.
3. Continue cooking until it turns brown with tiny specks at the bottom, giving off a nutty aroma.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Pour the brown butter over your mashed potatoes directly or let guests drizzle it onto their servings.
2. Adjust with more horseradish sauce if desired for added flavor!

Enjoy your fantastic Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes that are sure to be a favorite at any meal!

How to Serve Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are a creamy, decadent side that can elevate any meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement their rich flavor.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair these mashed potatoes with juicy grilled chicken breasts for a satisfying and balanced meal.

Alongside Beef Roast

• The savory profile of brown butter mashed potatoes enhances the flavors of a tender beef roast beautifully.

With Lamb Chops

• Serve these potatoes with perfectly seared lamb chops, allowing the richness of the butter to pair wonderfully with the meat.

For Turkey Dinner

• This dish is an ideal side for turkey, especially during festive occasions like Thanksgiving. The nutty flavor of the brown butter adds an exquisite touch.

Topped with Sautéed Vegetables

• Add a colorful mix of sautéed seasonal vegetables on top for a fresh and healthy element that contrasts the creamy potatoes.

Drizzled with Extra Brown Butter

• Allow guests to drizzle extra brown butter over their servings for a luxurious finish that enhances every bite.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

To make your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes even better, consider these simple tips that can boost flavor and texture.

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes are creamier than red potatoes, creating an even smoother mash.
• Warm Your Ingredients: Heating the milk and sour cream before adding them helps keep the mashed potatoes warm and fluffy.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to prevent gummy potatoes; they should be fluffy and light.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your mashed potatoes before serving; add more salt or pepper if needed for balance.
• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or chives can elevate the dish with added freshness and flavor.
• Serve Immediately: For best results, serve right after mashing for optimal creaminess and warmth.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

When planning a meal featuring Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, consider pairing them with these fantastic side dishes.

1. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and garlic complements the richness of the potatoes.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic add crunch and flavor contrast.
3. Cauliflower Gratin: A cheesy cauliflower bake can enhance your meal while keeping it comforting yet light.
4. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots provide a delightful balance to savory mashed potatoes.
5. Creamed Spinach: This classic dish brings creaminess and nutrients to your table alongside the mashed goodness.
6. Balsamic Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic reduction offer a tangy kick that pairs well with buttery flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, it’s easy to make small errors that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Using unpeeled potatoes: Always scrub and peel your potatoes for the best texture. Leaving the skin on can result in a gritty feel.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your mixture before serving. You may need to adjust salt, pepper, or horseradish sauce to achieve the perfect flavor.
• Overcooking the potatoes: Keep an eye on boiling time. Overcooked potatoes can turn mushy and watery, so aim for fork-tender.
• Rushing the browning process: Take your time when browning the butter. If you cook it too quickly, it might burn instead of achieving that nutty flavor.
• Skipping the mashing technique: Use a potato masher or hand mixer for smooth mashed potatoes. Using a food processor can make them gummy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool before sealing.

Freezing Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into smaller containers for easier thawing later.

Reheating Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and warm for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, while red potatoes create a creamy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for different flavors and textures.

How do I customize Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

Feel free to add ingredients like roasted garlic, chives, or cheese variations to enhance the flavor profile according to your taste.

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

You can serve them as a side dish with meats or vegetable dishes. Drizzling brown butter on top just before serving adds an extra touch of richness.

Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them ahead and store them in the refrigerator or freeze them for later use. Just reheat when needed.

Why is my Brown Butter not browning properly?

Make sure you’re cooking it over medium heat and stirring constantly. The process takes patience; keep an eye out for that nutty aroma and slight color change.

Final Thoughts

Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are a delicious and versatile side dish that elevates any meal. Their creamy texture combined with rich brown butter creates a comforting experience perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Feel free to customize with various herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences!