If you’re looking for a side dish that will steal the show at any gathering, then these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are just what you need! Imagine fluffy potatoes infused with the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter, paired with a hint of horseradish and fresh herbs. This recipe is not only easy to whip up but perfect for busy weeknights or festive family dinners. Trust me, once you serve these, your guests will be asking for seconds and thirds!

Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that brings everyone together. They’re creamy, satisfying, and just downright delicious. But when you elevate them with browned butter and a touch of parmesan, they become something truly special. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or a cozy Sunday dinner, these mashed potatoes will make any meal feel like a celebration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you can have this delicious side ready in no time.
Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! This recipe adds flavor without being too adventurous for picky eaters.
Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare them ahead of time and reheat them easily, saving you stress on busy days.
Deliciously unique flavor: The combination of browned butter and horseradish gives these mashed potatoes an unforgettable taste that elevates your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need to hunt down fancy ingredients for this recipe! Just gather some simple, wholesome items from your kitchen and local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to create those heavenly Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes:

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 put your own spin on it with these tasty variations:

Add roasted garlic: Roast some garlic cloves before mashing them in for an even richer flavor.
Mix in cheese: Stir in some shredded cheese like cheddar or gouda for an extra cheesy twist.
Try different herbs: Swap out parsley for chives or thyme to give the potatoes a different herbal note.
Make it vegan: Substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use non-dairy milk and sour cream for a delightful vegan version.

How to Make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by bringing a large pot of water to boil. Scrub your red potatoes clean and chop them into even-sized pieces. The smaller the chunks, the quicker they cook! Add the chopped potatoes to the boiling water and let them simmer until fork-tender—this usually takes about 20-35 minutes depending on their size.

Step 2: Drain and Mash

Once they’re perfectly tender, drain the water from the pot. Return the potatoes back into the pot or place them in a large bowl. This is where you’ll add in all the goodies: milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, parsley, and parmesan. Get ready to mash! Use a potato masher or a hand mixer until it’s as creamy as you like.

Step 3: Add Horseradish

Now comes the fun part—add some horseradish sauce! Start with one teaspoon and mix it in before tasting. If you want more kick, go ahead and add more until it’s just right for your palate.

Step 4: Brown the Butter

In a separate pot or skillet, melt your butter over medium heat. Stir every minute or so; soon enough it will start foaming. Keep an eye on it as it turns brown—this is where all that nutty flavor comes from! When it reaches that beautiful brown color with tiny specks at the bottom, pour it into a bowl immediately to stop further cooking.

Step 5: Combine or Drizzle

You have two options here: either mix all that glorious brown butter into your mashed potatoes or let everyone drizzle it over their servings individually. I personally love the idea of drizzling—because who doesn’t want to pour extra buttery goodness over their plate?

And there you have it—deliciously comforting Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes that will win hearts at any table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes is all about technique and a little bit of love. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy and flavorful every time!

Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes due to their smooth texture and buttery flavor. They hold their shape well and create a creamy mash without becoming gummy.
Don’t rush the browning process: When making brown butter, patience is key! Allowing the butter to slowly brown enhances its nutty flavor. Keep stirring to prevent burning and achieve that perfect golden-brown hue.
Adjust consistency as needed: Every batch of potatoes can require different amounts of liquid. Start with the specified milk and sour cream, then add more if you prefer a creamier texture.
Taste as you go: The magic of cooking lies in adjusting flavors according to your preference. After mixing in the horseradish sauce, take a moment to taste; this will help you determine if you’d like it spicier or milder.
Serve fresh but keep warm: Mashed potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you’re making them ahead of time, keep them warm in a slow cooker on low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of milk if they start to dry out.

How to Serve Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Now that you’ve crafted these luscious mashed potatoes, let’s talk about how to present them beautifully at your table!

Garnishes

Elevate your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes with these simple yet delightful garnishes:
* Fresh chives: Chopped chives add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
* Crispy shallots: A sprinkle of crispy shallots provides an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.
* Extra Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of grated Parmesan on top will enhance that umami flavor while making it visually appealing.

Side Dishes

Pair your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes with these delicious sides for a well-rounded meal:
* Roasted Brussels sprouts: Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, these sprouts caramelize beautifully in the oven and provide a slightly bitter contrast that balances the richness of the potatoes.
* Garlic green beans: Sautéed green beans with minced garlic bring freshness to your plate while offering a vibrant color contrast.
* Honey-glazed carrots: Sweet and tender, honey-glazed carrots add a lovely sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory mashed potatoes.
* Grilled chicken or turkey: Lean meats such as grilled chicken or turkey breast complement this dish perfectly without overpowering it.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes will not only taste divine but also look stunning on any dining table! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, offering both convenience and deliciousness for your busy week ahead. You can make them in advance and store them, ensuring that you have a comforting side dish ready to go whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
Place them in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Cool the mashed potatoes completely before freezing.
Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat, place them in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of milk to help loosen the mixture.
Stir occasionally until heated through, or microwave in a covered bowl, stirring every minute until warm.

FAQs

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

Can I make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions above for best results.

How do I get the best flavor from my Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

For maximum flavor, be sure to brown the butter carefully. Watch it closely as it cooks; you want those nutty aromas and brown specks without burning it. Also, adjust the horseradish sauce to your taste for that extra kick!

Can I substitute any ingredients in Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

Yes! If you’re looking for alternatives, try using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or a non-dairy milk if you’re avoiding dairy altogether. The key is to maintain a creamy texture!

What can I serve with Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

These creamy mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, hearty stews, or grilled chicken. They’re versatile enough to complement any main dish!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe warms your heart as much as it warms your home! Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re an experience—a hug on a plate that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Enjoy making this delightful recipe, and don’t hesitate to share it with family and friends. Happy cooking!

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