Description
Mashed Potatoes with Brown Butter is a rich and creamy side dish that elevates classic mashed potatoes by adding nutty, aromatic brown butter. Perfectly fluffy with a velvety texture, this comfort food pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses and is simple to prepare using everyday ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Brown Butter
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
Creaminess
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk, warmed
Seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes, cut them into even chunks, and place them in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Brown the Butter: While the potatoes are cooking, melt unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Allow it to bubble and foam, stirring occasionally until the butter turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma—this usually takes 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot or a warm bowl. Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash until smooth and creamy. Avoid over-mixing as this can make the potatoes gluey.
- Incorporate Brown Butter and Cream: Slowly add the browned butter and warm cream (or milk) to the mashed potatoes, stirring gently. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Adjust consistency by adding more cream if necessary.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the finished mashed potatoes to a serving dish, garnish if desired with fresh herbs, and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use room temperature unsalted butter and cream to blend smoothly into the potatoes without cooling them down.
- Do not overcook the potatoes; boil until just tender to prevent watery mashed potatoes.
- Watch the butter carefully when browning to avoid burning and to achieve a perfect nutty flavor.
- Choose Yukon Gold potatoes for creaminess, or Russets for a fluffier texture according to your preference.
- Season gradually and taste as you go to avoid over-salting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling and Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: mashed potatoes, brown butter, side dish, comfort food, creamy mashed potatoes, easy mashed potatoes
