Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food to elevate your dinner table, look no further than these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes. This recipe has a special place in my heart, and I bet it will find its way into yours too! The rich, nutty flavor of browned butter combined with creamy potatoes creates a dish that’s both simple and extraordinary. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress.

What makes this recipe even better is its versatility. You can whip it up as a comforting side for your weekday meals or serve it during holiday feasts. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown butter and horseradish gives these mashed potatoes a unique twist that will wow your taste buds.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, anyone can master this recipe, even if you’re new to cooking!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them when you’re ready to serve, making meal prep a breeze.
• Family Favorite: These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are sure to become a beloved dish at the dinner table, pleasing both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these mouthwatering Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes. You’ll find everything you need is likely already in your kitchen!

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try that can add your personal touch:

• Add some cheese: Mix in different cheeses like cheddar or goat cheese for an extra creamy texture.
• Get herby: Toss in fresh herbs like chives or rosemary for added flavor and freshness.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you like some heat in your mash.
• Mix in veggies: Fold in cooked cauliflower or broccoli for a delicious veggie-packed side.

How to Make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by bringing a large pot of water to boil. While the water heats up, scrub the potatoes clean and chop them into pieces about 1-2 inches. The smaller the pieces, the quicker they cook! Once boiling, add the potatoes and let them simmer until fork-tender—this usually takes about 20-35 minutes.

Step 2: Drain and Mash

Once your potatoes are tender, drain them well and return them to the pot or place them in a large bowl. Now comes the fun part! Add milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash everything together until creamy. Don’t forget to add horseradish sauce gradually—taste as you go!

Step 3: Brown the Butter

In another pot or skillet over medium heat, melt your butter while stirring every minute or so. Watch closely as it foams; soon enough you’ll see tiny brown specks forming at the bottom. The nutty aroma means it’s done! Pour it into a bowl immediately to stop cooking.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Now you have two choices: mix all that delicious brown butter into your mashed potatoes for rich flavor throughout or let guests drizzle it on their servings. I love watching everyone drizzle their own because who doesn’t want that extra buttery goodness? Enjoy every bite of these fantastic Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Making the creamiest, dreamiest brown butter mashed potatoes is easier than you think! Here are some simple tips to elevate your dish.

• Use the right potatoes: Red potatoes are perfect for this recipe because they have a creamy texture and hold their shape well when boiled. This ensures your mashed potatoes are fluffy and not gummy.

• Watch the butter closely: When browning the butter, keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. The nutty aroma is your cue that it’s almost there, but remember, once it starts browning, it can go from perfect to burnt very quickly.

• Taste as you go: Don’t be shy about tasting your mixture! Adding horseradish sauce is all about personal preference—some like it with a kick, while others prefer just a hint. Make it yours!

• Mash or whip to your liking: If you want a smooth consistency, using a hand mixer will do wonders. For a chunkier style, stick with a traditional potato masher. Either way, adjust the milk for your desired creaminess.

• Let the flavors meld: If time allows, let the mashed potatoes sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting period lets the flavors blend beautifully and makes each bite taste even better!

How to Serve Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

These brown butter mashed potatoes are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas to present this comforting side dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: Freshly chopped chives add a pop of color and mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Crumbled feta cheese: For an extra creamy and salty bite, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.
• Extra browned butter drizzle: A light drizzle of additional browned butter right before serving enhances both flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy Brussels sprouts bring a delightful crunch and slightly bitter flavor that balances out the richness of the mashed potatoes.
• Garlic green beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic add freshness and vibrancy to your plate while contributing their own unique taste.
• Herb-crusted chicken: A juicy herb-crusted chicken pairs perfectly with these mashed potatoes, adding protein and complementing their savory flavors.
• Creamy mushroom gravy: This rich gravy is an excellent addition for those who love extra sauce on their potatoes—just spoon it over for added decadence!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to impressing everyone at your next gathering with these irresistible brown butter mashed potatoes! Enjoy every buttery bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other dishes or enjoy more time with loved ones during busy cooking days.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftover mashed potatoes to an airtight container.
• Allow the potatoes to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, scoop portions of the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label and date each container for easy identification later.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use a microwave in short intervals.
• Add a splash of milk or butter if they seem dry while reheating.

FAQs

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

Can I make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes without sour cream?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or simply add extra milk for creaminess.

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

To get that creamy texture, mash your potatoes thoroughly but avoid overmixing them. Adding warm ingredients like butter and milk helps keep them fluffy!

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes! While red potatoes give a lovely texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Just be mindful that different types may yield slightly different textures.

What makes these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes special?

The secret lies in browning the butter, which adds a nutty flavor that elevates traditional mashed potatoes to something extraordinary. It’s an indulgent twist that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They’re not just a side dish; they’re an experience that brings warmth and comfort to every meal. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy dinner at home, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress. Enjoy every buttery bite, and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family!