If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food to elevate your meals, look no further than these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes. This isn’t just any mashed potato recipe; it’s a creamy, dreamy dish that will make everyone at your table swoon. The rich flavor of brown butter combined with the smooth texture of the potatoes creates a side dish that is perfect for any occasion—from cozy weeknight dinners to festive family gatherings. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to recipe for mashed potatoes!

Not only are these mashed potatoes delicious, but they’re also incredibly easy to make. You’ll find them a delightful addition to any meal, and with a few simple ingredients, you can impress your friends and family in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Preparation: With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without any fuss.
Family Favorite: These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Flavorful Twist: The addition of brown butter and horseradish adds an unexpected yet delightful kick.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare them in advance and reheat, making dinner stress-free.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair them with almost anything—roasted veggies, grilled chicken, or even a hearty stew!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes call for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Gather these goodies and let’s get started!

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! Feel free to get creative and customize it to suit your taste. Here are some fun variations:

Add more veggies: Stir in some roasted garlic or creamy cauliflower for extra nutrition and flavor.
Cheesy goodness: Swap out the Parmesan for aged cheddar or Gruyère for a different cheesy twist.
Herb-infused delight: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fresh flavor boost.
Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for some warmth.

How to Make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Bring a large pot of water to boil. Scrub the potatoes clean and chop them into equal-sized pieces—about 1-2 inches works best. The smaller they are, the quicker they will cook! Add the potatoes to the boiling water and reduce heat to medium. Let them simmer until fork-tender, which should take about 20-35 minutes depending on their size.

Step 2: Prepare the Mash

Once your potatoes are tender, drain them well and return them to the pot or transfer them to a large bowl. Now it’s time to add all those tasty ingredients! Mix in the milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, parsley, and grated Parmesan. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash everything together until creamy. Don’t forget to taste as you go—add horseradish sauce according to your preference!

Step 3: Make the Brown Butter

In another pot or skillet over medium heat, melt your butter while stirring every minute or two with a wooden spoon. Watch closely as it foams; eventually, it will turn brown with tiny specks appearing at the bottom. The nutty aroma will fill your kitchen! Once it reaches that lovely golden-brown color—remove it from heat immediately so it doesn’t burn.

Step 4: Combine It All

Now you have two delicious components ready! You can either mix all that beautiful brown butter into your mashed potatoes or serve it on the side so everyone can drizzle their own—because who doesn’t love DRIZZLING BUTTER?

And there you have it—deliciously rich Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes that are sure to steal the show at your next meal! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect batch of Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this creamy comfort food.

Choose the Right Potatoes: Red potatoes are ideal because they have a creamy texture and hold their shape well. This ensures your mashed potatoes are smooth without becoming gluey.
Don’t Rush the Browning Process: When making browned butter, patience is key! Allowing the butter to cook slowly will develop a rich, nutty flavor that elevates your dish. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Adjust Consistency as Needed: Everyone has their own preference for mashed potato creaminess. Start with the recommended milk and add more gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Taste as You Go: The beauty of mashed potatoes lies in their versatility. Adjust the seasoning or add more horseradish sauce according to your taste!
Use Fresh Herbs When Possible: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of your dish. If you can, opt for fresh herbs over dried ones for maximum impact!

How to Serve Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Serving Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes is a chance to get creative and impress your guests! Whether it’s for a family dinner or a festive gathering, here are some ideas on how to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

Chopped Chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a mild onion flavor and a lovely green touch.
Crumbled Feta Cheese: For an unexpected twist, crumbled feta provides a tangy contrast that’s delicious alongside the buttery richness.
Extra Parsley: A few leaves of freshly chopped parsley can brighten up the plate and give it that restaurant-quality look!

Side Dishes

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized little gems bring a slight bitterness that complements the creamy potatoes perfectly.
Grilled Chicken Breast: Lightly seasoned and grilled chicken provides protein while keeping the meal light and satisfying.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of honey-glazed carrots balances out the savory notes from your mashed potatoes, creating a harmonious plate.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread on the side is always a crowd-pleaser and great for soaking up every last bit of those brown butter flavors!

Now you’re ready to make and serve these amazing Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes! Enjoy delighting your family and friends with this comforting side dish that’s sure to earn you compliments all around. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze. You can prepare them in advance and enjoy their rich flavors throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

Let the mashed potatoes cool entirely before freezing.
Portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date!

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a splash of milk for creaminess.
Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delicious Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, I’ve got you covered!

Can I make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes without dairy?

Absolutely! You can substitute milk and sour cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version.

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

For the best texture, mash your potatoes while they are still warm. Adjust the milk gradually until you reach your desired creaminess.

What should I serve with Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a hearty vegetarian stew. They’re versatile enough for any main dish!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes a try! They are not just a side dish; they’re a comforting hug on a plate. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every creamy bite and share it with those you love!