Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food, and Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes take this beloved dish to a whole new level. The nutty flavor from the brown butter elevates the creamy texture of the potatoes, making them perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these mashed potatoes will surely become a favorite side dish in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The brown butter adds a unique nutty taste that enhances the overall flavor profile of traditional mashed potatoes.
• Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal steps, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair these mashed potatoes with various main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled vegetables, making them a versatile addition to your meals.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Small saucepan
• Potato masher
• Large pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Small saucepan: Perfect for melting butter evenly and watching it turn to brown without burning.
• Potato masher: Ensures you get fluffy mashed potatoes without any lumps.
• Large pot: Ideal for boiling the potatoes, allowing for even cooking and easy draining once they’re tender.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 900 g / 2 lbs potatoes
• 50 ml / 1/4 cup whole milk (hot)
• 100 g / 1/2 cup butter
• Salt to taste

How to Make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

1. Add the butter to a small saucepan and heat it over medium heat.
2. Once melted, let it turn frothy. Stir when foam appears; this helps in browning evenly.
3. Keep an eye on the butter as it darkens; remove it from heat once it’s brown.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

1. Peel and quarter the potatoes, then place them in a large pot filled with salted water.
2. Boil until tender; this usually takes around 15 minutes.
3. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and let them steam dry briefly in the pot.

Step 3: Mash and Mix

1. Return the drained potatoes to the pot and add hot milk.
2. Use a potato masher to mash until mostly smooth.
3. Stir in the brown butter and continue mashing until you achieve your desired consistency.

Step 4: Season and Serve

1. Taste your mash and season with salt as needed.
2. Serve hot with extra butter on top if desired.

Enjoy your deliciously rich Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes as a delightful side dish!

How to Serve Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Brown butter mashed potatoes are deliciously creamy and have a rich, nutty flavor. They can be served in various ways to complement any meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Pair with Protein

• Roasted Chicken: The savory notes of roasted chicken make a perfect match for the creamy potatoes.
• Grilled Turkey Breast: Add a side of grilled turkey breast for a lean protein option that pairs beautifully with brown butter flavors.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Chives: Sprinkle fresh chives on top for a mild onion flavor and vibrant color.
• Thyme or Rosemary: A few sprigs of these herbs can elevate the dish with their aromatic qualities.

Top with Extras

• Caramelized Onions: Sweet, caramelized onions add depth and sweetness to the potatoes.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top gives a creamy tang that balances the richness of the butter.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

To achieve the best brown butter mashed potatoes, follow these helpful tips. They will enhance flavor and texture for your dish.

• Bold Patience: Allow the butter to brown slowly; rushing this process can lead to burnt flavors instead of the desired nuttiness.
• Bold Quality Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for fluffier mashed potatoes.
• Bold Hot Ingredients: Use hot milk when mashing; it helps create creamier potatoes without lumps.
• Bold Proper Drying: Ensure potatoes are steamed dry after boiling; excess moisture can make them gummy.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Brown butter mashed potatoes are versatile and pair well with many side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrients.
2. Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with toasted almonds offer a crunchy contrast.
3. Garlic Bread: Savory garlic bread brings an appealing crunch alongside the smoothness of mashed potatoes.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides freshness and balances out heavier flavors.
5. Creamed Spinach: Rich, creamy spinach is decadent and complements the buttery taste of mashed potatoes well.
6. Beef Stew: A hearty beef stew pairs perfectly, bringing warmth and depth to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, avoid these common mistakes.

• Not monitoring the butter: When browning butter, keep a close eye on it as it can quickly go from brown to burnt. Stir regularly and remove it from heat as soon as it turns a nice golden brown.
• Overcooking the potatoes: Boil the potatoes just until tender; overcooking can lead to watery mashed potatoes. Test with a fork and drain them immediately after cooking.
• Using cold milk: Adding cold milk can cool down your mashed potatoes. Always use hot milk to ensure a creamy texture.
• Skipping seasoning: A little salt enhances flavor significantly. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Not mashing adequately: For smooth mashed potatoes, mash thoroughly. If you leave lumps, they can affect the overall texture of the dish.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into smaller containers for easier reheating.

Reheating Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make my Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes creamier?

To achieve creamier mashed potatoes, add more hot milk or butter gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, while russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffiness, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different texture and flavor.

Are Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well in the refrigerator or freezer, making them perfect for meal prep options throughout the week.

How can I customize my Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

You can add garlic, herbs like rosemary or chives, or even cheese for added flavor. Experiment with spices to match your meals!

Final Thoughts

Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile enough to accompany various dishes. The nutty flavor from brown butter elevates this classic side dish. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients!