Thanksgiving just wouldn’t be complete without a heaping bowl of creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes. This recipe takes that classic comfort food to the next level, with a rich, buttery flavor and a luxuriously smooth texture that will have your guests raving. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or just enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these mashed potatoes are sure to steal the show.
As the enticing aromas of roasted turkey and simmering gravy fill the air, the humble mashed potato often takes a backseat. But not today! This recipe is a true showstopper, elevating the humble spud into a decadent, flavor-packed side dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds).
With a blend of creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, rich butter, and a hint of garlic, this mashed potato recipe is the perfect accompaniment to your Thanksgiving feast. The secret to its unparalleled creaminess? A generous splash of heavy cream and a careful technique that ensures the potatoes are never overworked. Get ready to experience mashed potatoes like you’ve never tasted them before.
What Makes This Recipe Truly Special?
What sets this mashed potato recipe apart is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Unlike some versions that can be heavy or one-dimensional, this recipe is light and airy, with a luxurious mouthfeel that practically melts on your tongue. The key is in the careful preparation, which involves gently folding in the ingredients to maintain the potatoes’ fluffy, cloud-like consistency.
But it’s not just the texture that makes this recipe so special. The flavor profile is truly exceptional, thanks to the thoughtful selection of ingredients. The Yukon Gold potatoes provide a naturally creamy base, while the butter, garlic, and a touch of heavy cream add richness and depth. The result is a mashed potato that is simultaneously comforting and sophisticated, perfect for elevating your Thanksgiving feast.
Ingredients
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the Yukon Gold potatoes. Their rich, buttery flavor and creamy texture make them the perfect choice for mashed potatoes. The heavy cream adds an extra layer of luxurious mouthfeel, while the garlic provides a subtle savory note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot. Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and free of lumps.
- Add the Butter: Add the softened butter to the mashed potatoes and use a hand mixer or a wooden spoon to incorporate it until the butter is fully melted and the potatoes are creamy.
- Incorporate the Cream: Slowly pour in the warmed heavy cream, mixing gently with a spatula until the cream is fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a gluey texture.
- Season with Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until evenly distributed throughout the mashed potatoes.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preferences.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and serve hot, garnished with a pat of butter or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
Timing Overview
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 8 servings.
• Protein: 5 g
• Sodium: 594 mg
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fat: 29 g
• Fiber: 3 g
Make It Your Own: Substitutions and Ideas
• To Make it Vegan: Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and the heavy cream with unsweetened almond or oat milk. You may need to adjust the consistency by adding a bit more milk until you reach the desired texture.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Stir in a tablespoon of finely chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper along with the garlic and spices. For a milder heat, you can also add a sprinkle of chili flakes.
How to Serve This Dish Like a Pro?
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the mashed potatoes with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped chives, and a few crispy fried onions for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
• Beverage Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot. For a non-alcoholic option, a crisp apple cider or a rich, creamy hot chocolate would also be a delightful accompaniment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream are at room temperature or slightly warmed before adding them to the mashed potatoes. Cold ingredients can cause the potatoes to seize up and become lumpy.
• Mistake 3 – Not Seasoning Properly: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. The perfect mashed potatoes should be well-seasoned with salt and pepper to bring out the full flavor of the dish.
Smart Storage for Maximum Flavor
• Freezing: This mashed potato recipe can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the potatoes to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop.
• Reheating: To reheat the mashed potatoes, transfer them to a baking dish and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat them on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the texture as needed.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This mashed potato recipe can be made a day or two in advance. Simply prepare the potatoes as directed, then transfer them to a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate until ready to reheat and serve. This makes it a great make-ahead option for Thanksgiving or other holiday gatherings.
Can I use a different type of potato?
While Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choice for this recipe, you can use other varieties like Russet or red potatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly, and you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratios accordingly.
How can I make the potatoes extra creamy?
For an even creamier texture, try whipping the potatoes with a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment after mashing. This will incorporate more air into the potatoes, resulting in a lighter, fluffier consistency. You can also add an extra splash of heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese to further enrich the mashed potatoes.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the butter and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives. Use a high-quality vegan butter or olive oil in place of the butter, and unsweetened almond or oat milk instead of the heavy cream. The texture may be slightly different, but the end result will still be delicious.
How can I reheat leftover mashed potatoes without drying them out?
The key to reheating mashed potatoes without drying them out is to add a bit of liquid. When reheating in the oven, drizzle a tablespoon or two of milk or broth over the top of the potatoes before warming them. For the stovetop, add a splash of milk or cream and gently reheat the potatoes over low heat, stirring frequently, until they’re hot and creamy.
Wrapping It Up
This Thanksgiving, elevate your mashed potatoes to new heights with this decadent, flavor-packed recipe. The combination of creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, rich butter, and a touch of garlic creates a side dish that’s sure to be the star of your holiday feast. Pair it with your perfectly roasted turkey, a drizzle of savory gravy, and a sprinkle of fresh chives, and you’ve got a Thanksgiving meal that will have your guests raving long after the plates are clean.
So, gather your loved ones, put on your stretchy pants, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food that will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds). These mashed potatoes are the perfect way to make your Thanksgiving table truly special.
Flavorful, Hearty Mashed Potatoes Thanksgiving Recipe
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot. Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and free of lumps.
- Add the softened butter to the mashed potatoes and use a hand mixer or a wooden spoon to incorporate it until the butter is fully melted and the potatoes are creamy.
- Slowly pour in the warmed heavy cream, mixing gently with a spatula until the cream is fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a gluey texture.
- Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until evenly distributed throughout the mashed potatoes.
- Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preferences.
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and serve hot, garnished with a pat of butter or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
