Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that will steal the spotlight at any meal, you’ve found it! Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are a timeless classic, and they just got a delicious upgrade. The addition of nutty brown butter, creamy parmesan, and a little kick from horseradish takes this beloved favorite to the next level. Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressive holiday feasts, these mashed potatoes have a knack for bringing everyone together around the table.

Trust me, once you serve these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, your friends and family will be raving about them long after the last bite. They’re not just tasty; they’re the kind of comfort food that warms your heart on a chilly evening or adds joy to festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
• Family-approved: Everyone loves creamy mashed potatoes—add some brown butter magic and they’re sure to be a hit!
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare them in advance and simply reheat when it’s time to eat.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of brown butter and horseradish gives these potatoes an unforgettable taste.
• Versatile side: These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with almost any main dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to make these scrumptious Brown Butter 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!)
• 3/4 cup butter

Variations

One of the best things about Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes is how adaptable they are! Feel free to experiment with these fun variations that put your own spin on this classic dish.

• Add roasted garlic: For an extra depth of flavor, toss in some roasted garlic instead of raw minced garlic.
• Change up the cheese: Swap out Parmesan for another cheese like cheddar or feta for a whole new taste experience.
• Mix in vegetables: Stir in cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh twist.

How to Make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by bringing a large pot of water to boil. While it’s heating up, scrub those red potatoes clean and chop them into equal-sized pieces—about 1 to 2 inches works best. The smaller they are, the quicker they’ll cook! Once boiling, add your potatoes and lower the heat to medium. Let them simmer until fork-tender—this usually takes about 20 to 35 minutes depending on size.

Step 2: Drain and Return

When your potatoes are perfectly tender, drain them well. It’s important to get rid of all that water so your mashed potatoes don’t end up watery. Return them back to the pot or transfer them into a large mixing bowl where all the magic will happen!

Step 3: Add Creamy Goodness

Now it’s time for all those delicious ingredients! Add milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, parsley, and grated Parmesan directly into your warm potatoes. This step makes sure everything blends together beautifully while keeping those mashed potatoes nice and creamy.

Step 4: Mash It Up

Grab your potato masher or hand mixer and start mashing away! This is where you can really customize the texture—smooth or chunky? It’s totally up to you! After mashing, add horseradish sauce gradually; taste as you go until you find that perfect balance of flavors.

Step 5: Brown the Butter

In a separate pot or skillet over medium heat, melt your butter while stirring every couple of minutes. Watch closely as it foams up—this is where the magic happens! Once it turns golden brown with tiny specks at the bottom and smells nutty divine, it’s done. Pour it into a bowl immediately; we want to stop the cooking process right here!

Step 6: Serve with Style

At this point, you can either mix all that luscious brown butter right into your mashed potatoes or let everyone drizzle their own over each serving. I personally love letting guests drizzle because who doesn’t enjoy drizzling warm butter over their food? It adds an elegant touch that everyone appreciates!

And there you have it—your very own batch of heavenly Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes is all about attention to detail and a little love in the kitchen. Here are some tips to elevate your dish to royal status!

• Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes are great for their creamy texture, but Yukon Golds can add a buttery flavor. Experiment with different varieties to find your favorite!

• Don’t rush the browning process: When making brown butter, patience is key. Stirring frequently prevents burning and allows you to achieve that nutty aroma without any bitterness.

• Taste as you go: Adjusting seasoning is crucial. Start with less horseradish sauce and gradually add more until it reaches your desired level of kick!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Let your milk and sour cream come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother consistency in your mashed potatoes.

• Consider using a ricer: For an ultra-smooth texture, try using a potato ricer instead of a masher. It’s a game-changer for achieving creaminess!

How to Serve Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Presentation can make all the difference when serving Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes! Here are some ideas to wow your guests at your next gathering.

Garnishes

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

• Extra Parmesan: Grate some additional Parmesan on top just before serving for an extra cheesy touch that enhances every bite.

• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can add an aromatic flavor, enhancing the brown butter without overpowering it.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a delightful contrast in texture and their slight bitterness balances the richness of the mashed potatoes.

• Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken: This bright and flavorful chicken pairs beautifully, providing protein and freshness that harmonizes with the creamy potatoes.

• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic are a classic pairing, adding crunch and a burst of color to your plate.

• Cranberry Sauce: For those festive occasions, a side of homemade cranberry sauce brings sweetness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the mashed potatoes perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes will not only taste incredible but also look irresistible on any table! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them for later, ensuring you have a delicious side dish ready to go whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled mashed potatoes in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To prevent browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow mashed potatoes to cool completely.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
• Alternatively, use the microwave in short increments, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes that I hope will help!

Can I make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! These mashed potatoes can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for easy reheating. Just follow the storing and reheating tips above.

What makes Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes special?

The unique flavor of browned butter adds a nutty richness that elevates traditional mashed potatoes. Combined with creamy sour cream and a hint of horseradish, these potatoes become a standout side dish!

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes! While red potatoes provide a creamy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or even Russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that different types may affect the final texture slightly.

How can I customize my Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite herbs or spices! Chives, rosemary, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add delightful variations to your dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this incredible batch of Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes! With their rich flavor and creamy texture, they’re sure to impress at any gathering. Enjoy making them as much as I do, and don’t forget to drizzle that luscious brown butter on top—it’s truly the cherry on top of this comforting dish. Happy cooking!