If you’re looking for a side dish that elevates any meal, you’ve found it in these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes. There’s something magical about the nutty aroma of browned butter swirling together with creamy potatoes that makes my heart sing. This recipe is one I turn to time and again, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering. They are simply irresistible and sure to impress everyone at your table.

What makes this dish even more special is how easy it is to whip up. You can blend it into your dinner routine or save it for those special occasions when you want to treat your loved ones. Trust me, these mashed potatoes will earn you the title of Best Chef in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious flavor: The combination of brown butter, Parmesan, and horseradish creates an unforgettable taste.
Easy preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! These are creamy and flavorful, making them a hit with kids and adults alike.
Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare them in advance and reheat for a quick side on busy days.
Versatile serving options: Whether you mix in the butter or let guests drizzle it on their own, it’s fun for everyone!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes utilize simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything you need to create this delightful dish!

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 get creative and tailor these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Add different herbs: Try rosemary or thyme instead of parsley for a unique twist on flavor.
Make it cheesy: Swap some of the milk with cream cheese for an extra creamy texture.
Spice it up: Add some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Go dairy-free: Substitute with plant-based milk and vegan sour cream to make this dish vegan-friendly.

How to Make Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to boil. Scrub the potatoes clean and chop them into equal-sized pieces. The smaller they are, the quicker they cook—aim for about 1-2 inch chunks. Once boiling, add the potatoes and reduce the heat to medium. Simmer until they’re fork-tender, which usually takes about 20-35 minutes depending on their size.

Step 2: Drain and Mix

When your potatoes are tender, drain the water carefully and return them to the pot or transfer them to a large bowl. This next step is where all those delicious flavors come together! Add the milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, parsley, and parmesan cheese into the mix.

Step 3: Mash It Up!

Time for mashing! Use a potato masher or hand mixer to blend everything together until creamy and smooth. Don’t forget to add in some horseradish sauce—start with just a little bit and then adjust according to your preference.

Step 4: Brown the Butter

In a separate pot or skillet over medium heat, melt the butter while stirring every minute or so. Watch closely as it begins to foam; soon enough you’ll notice tiny brown specks forming at the bottom—which means it’s ready! The nutty aroma will fill your kitchen; that’s when you’ll know you’ve done it right.

Step 5: Serve Your Masterpiece

You can either fold all that delicious brown butter right into the mashed potatoes or allow guests to drizzle it on their servings as they please. I love offering that option—there’s just something so indulgent about drizzling warm butter over creamy mashed potatoes!

Now you’re all set with your own batch of Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish to royal status.

Use a mix of potato varieties: Combining red potatoes with Yukon Gold can create a creamier texture and richer flavor, giving your mashed potatoes an extra dimension.
Don’t rush the browning process: Allowing the butter to brown slowly enhances its nutty flavor. Stir it consistently to prevent burning, and you’ll achieve that delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.
Adjust creaminess to your taste: If you want a lighter texture, start with less milk and sour cream, adding more until you reach your desired consistency. This way, you can customize it to perfection!
Season as you go: Tasting your potatoes at each stage is key. Adjust the salt and horseradish sauce gradually to suit your palate, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
Make ahead for convenience: You can prepare the potatoes in advance; just store them in the fridge after mashing. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to maintain that creamy texture.

How to Serve Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Presentation matters when serving up these delectable Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes. With a few simple touches, you can turn this comforting dish into a show-stopper!

Garnishes

Chopped chives or green onions: Sprinkle these fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the potatoes.
Extra grated Parmesan: A light dusting of Parmesan right before serving adds an appetizing visual and extra depth of flavor.
A drizzle of balsamic reduction: This adds a sweet tanginess that contrasts beautifully with the savory buttered potatoes.

Side Dishes

Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their crispy edges and earthy taste make them a perfect complement to the creamy mashed potatoes. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until golden brown.
Garlic herb chicken: Juicy chicken seasoned with garlic and herbs pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes for a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Honey-glazed carrots: The sweetness from honey-roasted carrots balances out the savory richness of the mashed potatoes, creating a well-rounded plate.
Green bean almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds deliver a satisfying crunch and refreshing element alongside the creamy potatoes.

Now you’re ready to impress your guests (or just treat yourself!) with this elevated side dish. Enjoy every creamy bite of your Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, and they store beautifully, making your weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
Transfer them to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
If you want, you can add a little extra milk or butter when reheating to bring back their creamy texture.

Freezing

Let the mashed potatoes cool completely before freezing.
Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
For best results, portion them into smaller servings for easy thawing.

Reheating

Thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if needed to achieve desired creaminess.
Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes that might help you out!

Can I use other types of potatoes for Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! While red potatoes provide a lovely creamy texture, you can also use Yukon Golds or even russets. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may change the flavor and texture slightly.

How do I achieve the best flavor in my Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes?

To maximize flavor, ensure your butter is perfectly browned; this is where the nutty aroma comes from. Also, don’t shy away from tasting as you go—adjusting seasonings like salt and horseradish sauce will take your mashed potatoes to another level!

Can I make these Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk), and swap out sour cream for a vegan version. The horseradish sauce should be checked for ingredients as well.

How long do Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these mashed potatoes can last in the fridge for 3-5 days. Just remember to reheat thoroughly before enjoying!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these rich and flavorful Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They bring warmth and comfort to any meal and are sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and toppings—after all, cooking is all about joy and creativity. Happy mashing!