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    Home » Side Dishes » Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

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    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter and just the right amount of seasoning. Not to mention, the looks of it are just as gorgeous and appetizing as the flavor!

    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com

    Whether you’re looking for something unique to serve at a holiday meal or just want to add some gourmet flair to your weeknight dinner, this mashed potatoes recipe takes the humble spud to a whole new level. The addition of brown butter adds a nutty, caramelized flavor that you won’t find in your regular mashed potatoes. Plus, mashed potatoes with brown butter can be paired with almost any protein, from Stuffed Chicken Breasts and Parmesan Crusted Chicken to Roast Beef and Creamy Garlic Salmon.

    Why You'll Love this Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes Recipe

    • That brown butter. The moment you add brown butter to your mashed potatoes, you might wonder why you haven’t been doing this all along! It’s amazing how much flavor it adds that you probably won't be able to go back to regular mashed potatoes.
    • Super simple to make. This brown butter potato recipe is so easy to follow yet it still adds a gourmet touch to your meal. It takes about 30 minutes to make and all you need are potatoes, butter, cream, cheese, and seasonings.
    • Perfect for entertaining. Everyone loves mashed potatoes, and these brown butter ones will probably become a new favorite. It doesn't take long to make, so you can easily whip it up for last-minute guests. You can even make it ahead of time if you’re serving a large crowd.
    • Incredibly creamy. If you’ve ever been disappointed by dry, lumpy mashed potatoes, making this mashed potato with brown butter recipe will turn that around. The combination of butter, sour cream, and whole milk makes the creamiest and fluffiest mashed potatoes ever!
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com

    Ingredient Notes

    To make easy and delicious Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, you will need the following ingredients (full measurements in recipe card below):

    • potatoes - I use Russets in this recipe, which are starchy and perfect for mashing. But Yukon Gold works great as well!
    • butter - use unsalted butter to make the brown butter. Browning the butter is an extremely easy process yet it adds tons of amazing flavors to the mashed potatoes.
    • garlic - fresh garlic is always best!
    • sour cream - this adds a slightly tangy flavor and makes the mashed potatoes extra creamy. You can also use Greek yogurt if that’s all you have.
    • whole milk - use whole milk to get the perfect consistency without thinning the flavors. You can also use heavy cream — especially if you’re using Greek yogurt which is thinner and lower in fat.
    • Parmesan cheese - I recommend using freshly grated Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor.
    • salt and black pepper - season to taste.
    • fresh parsley - optional, for serving.

    You will also need measuring cups and spoons, a large pot, a saucepan or skillet, and potato masher (or fork).

    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com

    How to Make the Best Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

    1. Cook potatoes. Add the potatoes into a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until fork tender, about 10-15 minutes. If you can easily insert a fork into the potatoes, then they are ready.
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com
    1. Brown the butter. While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Use a rubber spatula, and begin stirring as soon as the butter melts. Continuously stir throughout the entire process to prevent burning. The butter will start to foam and sizzle after a few minutes. Add garlic and continue to sauté. You will start to see the milk solids on the bottom of the pan. Keep cooking until the butter turns a golden brown color and gives off a nutty aroma, about 3-4 minutes. Once the milk solids turn a toasty brown colour, immediately remove from heat and set aside.
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com
    1. Mash potatoes. Drain the water from the potatoes and mash the potatoes using a potato masher or a fork.
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com
    1. Combine ingredients. Add half of the garlic brown butter mixture, sour cream, milk, parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth. Add more milk if needed until desired creamy texture is reached.
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com
    1. Serve. Transfer to the mashed potatoes to a round serving dish and use the back of a spoon to swirl it on the serving dish. Drizzle the remaining garlic brown butter mixture on top. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top and serve immediately.
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com

    Recipe Variations

    • Add toppings. Top your mashed potatoes with anything from chives and caramelized onions to bacon bits and sautéed mushrooms. The options are endless!
    • Mix in herbs. Add herbs like rosemary, oregano, thyme, and parsley for a more complex flavor profile.
    • Skip the cheese. Go light by leaving out the cheese and adding in some fresh herbs and lemon zest instead.
    • Use roasted garlic. If you're feeling fancy, roast some garlic in the oven and mash it with the potatoes for that mild yet sweet, nutty flavor.
    • Make it quicker. Put it together in 20 minutes with my Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes recipe.

    How to Serve

    Serve these delicious Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes with proteins, salads, vegetables, and other side dishes. Some of our favorites to pair with it are:

    • Roasted Spatchcock Chicken
    • Garlic Butter Steak Bites
    • Roast Turkey
    • Garlic Rosemary Rack of Lamb
    • Ribeye Steak
    • Lemon Parmesan Green Beans
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com

    Recipe Tips and Tricks

    • Use the right potato variety. Choose starchy potatoes such as Russet, Idaho, or Yukon Gold. They’re higher in starch which makes them easier to mash and blend into a perfect creamy and fluffy texture.
    • Peel the potatoes. While some recipes call for leaving the skins on, we prefer peeling them for a silky-smooth mash. Feel free to prepare them how you like.
    • Cut potatoes into even pieces. Using evenly sized potato pieces helps ensure they cook evenly and at the same rate.
    • Watch the butter closely. Browning the butter is quick and takes about 5 or so minutes, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
    • Don’t overwork the potatoes. Be careful not to overmix the potatoes after mashing as they can become gummy and gluey.
    • Don't skimp on the milk. If you find your mashed potatoes too thick, add one tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

    How to Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes

    Sick of leftover mashed potatoes? No problem! Repurpose them into something new! These are some of our favorite ways to use up leftover brown butter mashed potatoes:

    • Mashed Potato Balls
    • Mashed Potato Soup
    • Potato Dinner Rolls
    • Mashed Potato Cakes
    • Skillet Shepherd’s Pie
    Mashed potato cakes are light and fluffy inside, crispy golden outside, and so delicious and flavorful. The best way to use up leftover mashed potatoes! | aheadofthyme.com
    Mashed potato soup is one of the best ways to use up leftover mashed potatoes. It’s creamy, cheesy, delicious, and ready in under 30 minutes. | aheadofthyme.com

    Storing and Freezing Instructions

    How to Store

    Keep the leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for 3 to 5 days.

    How to Reheat

    Place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, add a splash of milk, and cover with a lid or foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat in the oven at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes, or until warmed through.

    How to Freeze

    Put the brown butter mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container or freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating in the oven.

    More Mashed Potato Recipes

    • The Best and Creamiest Mashed Potatoes
    • Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Sour Cream
    • Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes
    • Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
    • Mashed Red Potatoes
    • Healthy Mashed Potatoes

    Did you make this recipe? I would greatly appreciate a comment and rating below, letting me know what you thought of the recipe. You can also snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @aheadofthyme or share it on the Pinterest pin so that I can follow along.

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    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com

    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes


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    • Author: Sam Hu | Ahead of Thyme
    • Total Time: 30 minutes
    • Yield: 4 servings
    • Diet: Gluten Free
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    Description

    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter and just the right amount of seasoning. Not to mention, the looks of it are just as gorgeous and appetizing as the flavor!


    Ingredients

    • 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
    • ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into smaller pieces
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • ⅓ cup sour cream
    • ½ cup whole milk (or more if needed)
    • ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
    • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
    • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)
    • fresh parsley, finely chopped (for serving)

    Instructions

    1. Add the potatoes into a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until fork tender, about 10-15 minutes. If you can easily insert a fork into the potatoes, then they are ready.
    2. While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Use a rubber spatula, and begin stirring as soon as the butter melts. Continuously stir throughout the entire process to prevent burning. The butter will start to foam and sizzle after a few minutes. Add garlic and continue to sauté. You will start to see the milk solids on the bottom of the pan. Keep cooking until the butter turns a golden brown color and gives off a nutty aroma, about 3-4 minutes. Once the milk solids turn a toasty brown colour, immediately remove from heat and set aside.
    3. Drain the water from the potatoes and mash the potatoes using a potato masher or a fork. Add half of the garlic brown butter mixture, sour cream, milk, parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth. Add more milk if needed until desired creamy texture is reached.
    4. Transfer to the mashed potatoes to a round serving dish and use the back of a spoon to swirl it on the serving dish. Drizzle the remaining garlic brown butter mixture on top. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top and serve immediately.

    Notes

    How to store: Keep the leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for 3 to 5 days.

    How to reheat: Place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, add a splash of milk, and cover with a lid or foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat in the oven at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes, or until warmed through.

    How to freeze: Put the brown butter mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container or freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating in the oven.

    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cook Time: 20 minutes
    • Category: Side Dish
    • Method: Stovetop
    • Cuisine: American

    Did you make this recipe?

    I'd love to see! Tag me @aheadofthyme on Instagram.

    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s smooth and creamy with a rich, nutty flavor from the brown butter. | aheadofthyme.com
    Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes
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    Comments

    1. Ivy says

      October 06, 2023 at 9:13 pm

      I never leave reviews but these are worth the comment! Thanks for the Fantastic recipe!!!

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