Healthy mashed potatoes are velvety and smooth, creamy and delicious packed with flavour, but with only a fraction of the calories. What's the secret? Substitute the cream for non-fat Greek yogurt and low-fat milk, and most of the butter with olive oil and chicken stock. These healthy mashed potatoes are the easiest side dish to prepare and can be made ahead of time. Add this quintessential holiday side dish to your Thanksgiving table this year and you won't regret it.
Potatoes are one of those foods that I can eat all day, every day. I like them prepared in any way, shape or form. But mashed potatoes might be my favourite way to enjoy this vegetable. I like them super creamy like in the best and creamiest mashed potatoes, and I like them garlicky like in garlic mashed potatoes with sour cream. I also like them healthy without sacrificing the taste. This recipe cuts out the total calories in this dish by almost 500. Pretty amazing.
Ingredients
- potatoes - I use russet potatoes but Yukon gold potatoes are also perfect for mashed potatoes. They are softer and creamier.
- non-fat Greek yogurt - this adds a creamy velvety texture and also to replaces sour cream or heavy cream used in traditional mashed potatoes.
- non-fat milk - to create that smooth velvety texture without any cream.
- chicken broth - this adds flavour.
- butter - just one tablespoon in the whole dish to still give it that classic buttery texture and flavour.
- extra virgin olive oil - for texture and to keep the amount of butter that we use low.
- salt and pepper
You will also need a large pot and a potato masher.
How to Make the Best Healthy Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the potatoes: Place potatoes in a large pot and fill with salted water to cover the potatoes by about one inch. Bring to a boil over high heat, then turn down to low, cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
- Mash the potatoes: Drain and place the potatoes back in the pot or into a mixing bowl. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher.
- Add remaining ingredients: Add chicken broth, milk, butter and olive oil. Whisk until light and fluffy. Add a generous amount of salt and pepper, to taste. Whisk until combined.
- Serve. Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with parsley, extra butter and serve warm.
Tips
- Use a potato masher. Mash the potatoes using a simple potato masher. For extra creamy potatoes, use an electric hand mixer to mix the ingredients together after you have mashed the potatoes with the masher.
- How to store: Mashed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- How to make ahead: Prepare these mashed potatoes up to 3 days ahead of time. To reheat, transfer to the microwave or oven.
Anne Murphy says
Oh, they sound great! The broth must add wonderful flavor.
It was funny - I didn't grow up eating mashed potatoes, as my parents didn't like them. So when I first made them as an adult, and discovered how good they can be (not like the ones they served in the dorm or a diner LOL) I was fascinated. I hadn't known they could be fluffy!
Sam | Ahead of Thyme says
Hahaha that's hilarious! I am glad you have now discovered the wonderful world of GOOD mashed potatoes 🙂
Boastful Food says
Can't go wrong with mashed potatoes of any kind. Love this recipe!
Sam | Ahead of Thyme says
I know, right? Mashed potatoes are the best!
Ali @ Home & Plate says
I'm right there with you. I love mashed potatoes in all their decadence but love a lighter version because then you can eat more and more often. Yum.
Sam | Ahead of Thyme says
Yes, less calories = a win for me!
Sarah says
You had me at healthy! I love a great mashed potato recipe but making it healthier puts this recipe at the top of my side-dish list!! Thank you! 🙂
Sam | Ahead of Thyme says
No problem! Glad I could help 🙂
Michele says
What a clever idea? The chicken broth also adds a lot of added flavor! I can't wait to try this!
Sam | Ahead of Thyme says
Thanks, Michele! 🙂
Tammi says
Wow! Thanks for sharing this recipe for a "skinnier" alternative to the classic mashed potato. I will try this tonight.
Sam | Ahead of Thyme says
No problem! 🙂 Let me know how you like it!