Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes

Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes Recipe - Creamy and Flavorful

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes is a delicious and indulgent side dish that takes traditional mashed potatoes to a whole new level. The nutty and rich flavor of browned butter adds a depth of flavor to the creamy mashed potatoes, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal.

History

Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes is a modern twist on the classic mashed potatoes recipe. Browned butter has been used in cooking for centuries, adding a rich and nutty flavor to dishes. By incorporating browned butter into mashed potatoes, it elevates the dish and creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.

Ingredients

0.75 cup of butter
4 lb (1.81 kg) of yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 2 inch pieces
1 tbsp of salt, divided
0.75 cup of buttermilk
0.5 cup of milk
0.25 tsp of pepper
Garnishes: fresh parsley, rosemary, and thyme sprigs

How to prepare

In a 2 qt (1.89 liter) heavy saucepan, cook the butter over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 6–8 minutes or until the butter begins to turn golden brown.
Immediately remove the pan from heat and pour the butter into a small bowl. Note that the butter will continue to darken if left in the saucepan.
Remove and set aside 1-2 tbsp of the browned butter.
In a large Dutch oven, bring the potatoes, 2 tsp of salt, and enough water to cover to a boil over medium-high heat. Boil for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and reduce the heat to low.
Return the potatoes to the Dutch oven and cook, stirring, for 3–5 minutes until the potatoes are dry.
Mash the potatoes to the desired consistency using a masher. Stir in the remaining brown butter, buttermilk, milk, pepper, and the remaining 1 tsp of salt, stirring until just blended.
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish. Drizzle with the reserved 1-2 tbsp of browned butter. Garnish, if desired.

Makes 6-8 servings.

To make ahead, prepare the recipe as directed through step 3. Place it in a lightly greased 2.5 qt (2.36 liter) ovenproof serving dish, cover, and chill for up to 2 days. Let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Bake the dish uncovered at 350°F (177°C) for 35–40 minutes or until heated through.
Drizzle with the reserved butter and garnish.

Variations

Add roasted garlic or herbs for extra flavor.
Use sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
Top with crispy bacon or fried shallots for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to keep a close eye on the butter as it browns, as it can quickly go from golden brown to burnt.

- For extra flavor, you can add roasted garlic or herbs to the mashed potatoes.

- Use a potato masher for a chunkier texture or a hand mixer for a smoother consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes are the perfect side dish for roasted chicken, steak, or pork chops. They also pair well with a green salad or roasted vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the butter adds a nutty flavor to the mashed potatoes.

- Boiling the potatoes until fork-tender ensures a smooth and creamy texture.

- Mash the potatoes to your desired consistency for a personalized touch.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use regular milk instead of buttermilk for a slightly different flavor.

- Substitute ghee or clarified butter for a dairy-free option.

- Swap out yukon gold potatoes for russet or red potatoes.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the mashed potatoes as directed through step 3, then cover and chill for up to 2 days. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes in a decorative serving dish and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes with a hearty main dish like roast beef or grilled salmon. A glass of white wine or a crisp beer complements the rich flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter, buttermilk, milk) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes are a rich and indulgent side dish that is high in fat and calories, but also provides essential nutrients like potassium and vitamin C.

Summary

Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes are a decadent and flavorful side dish that is perfect for special occasions or holiday meals. The rich and nutty flavor of browned butter elevates the classic mashed potatoes recipe, making it a standout dish on any dinner table.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew I had to try it. It was a dreary winter day, with a chill in the air that seemed to seep into my bones. I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother, searching for something warm and comforting to make for dinner. And that's when I stumbled upon the recipe for Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes.

The ingredients were simple enough - potatoes, butter, milk, salt, and pepper. But it was the technique that intrigued me. The recipe called for browning the butter before mixing it into the mashed potatoes, giving them a rich, nutty flavor that I had never experienced before. I could practically taste the creamy, indulgent dish just by reading the instructions.

I had learned to cook from a young age, watching my mother and grandmother in the kitchen as they whipped up delicious meals from scratch. They taught me the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients and taking the time to cook with love and care. So, armed with this newfound recipe and a sense of determination, I set out to make the Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes for my family that evening.

I started by peeling and chopping the potatoes, then boiling them until they were tender. While the potatoes cooked, I melted the butter in a pan over low heat, watching as it slowly turned a deep, golden brown. The smell that filled the kitchen was heavenly - warm and nutty, with a hint of caramelization that made my mouth water.

Once the butter was perfectly browned, I carefully poured it into the pot with the cooked potatoes, mashing and stirring until everything was well combined. I added a splash of milk, a pinch of salt, and a generous grinding of black pepper, tasting and adjusting until the flavors were just right.

When I served the Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes to my family that night, they were met with rave reviews. The potatoes were creamy and velvety, with a subtle richness from the browned butter that elevated them to a whole new level. My husband declared them the best mashed potatoes he had ever tasted, and my children eagerly asked for seconds.

From that day on, Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes became a staple in our household. I made them for holidays and special occasions, and sometimes just because we were craving something warm and comforting. Each time I made them, I remembered that dreary winter day when I first discovered the recipe, and how it had brought so much joy and comfort to my family.

Over the years, I continued to experiment and refine the recipe, adding new twists and variations to keep things interesting. I learned to pair the potatoes with different proteins and vegetables, creating complete meals that were both satisfying and delicious. And no matter how many new recipes I tried, the Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes remained a beloved favorite that never failed to impress.

As I grew older, I realized that cooking was more than just a hobby or a way to nourish my loved ones. It was a way to connect with my past, to honor the traditions and memories that had been passed down through generations. And the Browned Butter Mashed Potatoes were a perfect example of that - a simple dish that carried with it a lifetime of stories and experiences.

So, as I sit here now, reflecting on all the meals I've cooked and the recipes I've learned, I am grateful for the gift of cooking that has been passed down to me. And I know that as long as I have my trusty old cookbook and a kitchen to work in, I will continue to create delicious, comforting meals that bring joy and warmth to those I love.