Mashed potatoes are a quintessential Thanksgiving side dish, but they don’t have to be laden with butter and cream to be utterly delicious. Our healthy Thanksgiving mashed potatoes recipe is here to prove that you can enjoy all the rich, creamy flavors you crave without the guilt. Prepare to have your taste buds and your waistline dance with joy!
Growing up, mashed potatoes were always my favorite part of the Thanksgiving feast. There was just something so comforting about that fluffy, buttery goodness. But as I got older and became more conscious of my health, I started to feel a little uneasy about just how much fat and calories were in a typical serving of mashed potatoes. That’s when I set out on a mission to create a mashed potato recipe that was just as delectable, but with a nutritious twist.
After countless experiments in the kitchen, I landed on this Healthy Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes recipe, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. The secret lies in cleverly swapping out some of the traditional ingredients for lighter, more nourishing alternatives. The result? Creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes that are packed with beneficial nutrients instead of empty calories. Trust me, your family and friends will never be able to tell the difference.
🥔 Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe ?
These Thanksgiving mashed potatoes are not your average spuds. Beyond their irresistible flavor and texture, they boast a long list of health benefits. For starters, we’ve ditched the heavy cream and butter in favor of heart-healthy olive oil and protein-rich Greek yogurt. This simple swap cuts the fat and calories significantly without sacrificing any of the signature creaminess.
But the nutritional upgrades don’t stop there. We’ve also incorporated a generous helping of fiber-rich Yukon Gold potatoes, which are brimming with essential vitamins and minerals like potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. And to really amp up the nutrition, we’ve added in a touch of garlic and fresh herbs, which not only enhance the flavor but also provide valuable antioxidants.
Ingredients
• 1 cup low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
The key ingredients in this recipe are the Yukon Gold potatoes and the Greek yogurt. Yukon Golds have a naturally creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor, making them the perfect choice for mashed potatoes. The Greek yogurt not only adds a tangy richness, but it also provides a boost of protein to keep you feeling satisfied.
As for the herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper, they work together to elevate the overall flavor profile. The garlic adds a savory depth, while the parsley and thyme provide a lovely freshness. The salt and pepper simply help to balance and enhance all the other flavors.
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Mash the Potatoes: Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash the potatoes until they’re smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the potatoes gummy.
- Add the Flavor Boosters: Stir in the Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper until the ingredients are fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with extra fresh herbs, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
🍽️ Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 8 servings.
• Protein: 6 g
• Sodium: 416 mg
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fat: 6 g
• Fiber: 3 g
🤩 Fun Alternatives to Try
• To Make it Vegan: Substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt, such as coconut or almond milk yogurt. You can also use olive oil or coconut oil in place of the dairy-based butter or cream.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Stir in a tablespoon or two of your favorite hot sauce, such as Sriracha or Cholula, towards the end of the mashing process. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a more subtle heat.
🍗 Elevate Your Meal with These Serving Tips
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the mashed potatoes with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of coarse sea salt or cracked black pepper.
• Beverage Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, or a refreshing sparkling cider.
🍽️ Pro Tips for a Perfect Outcome Every Time
• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: For the smoothest, creamiest mashed potatoes, it’s important to use ingredients that are at room temperature. This helps them incorporate more easily and prevents the texture from becoming lumpy.
• Mistake 3 – Overmixing the Potatoes: Overworking the potatoes can cause the starch to develop, leading to a gluey, unappetizing texture. Gently fold in the yogurt, oil, and herbs until just combined.
🥶 Storing, Freezing, and Reheating
• Freezing: These mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the mashed potatoes in a baking dish and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat them on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently, until hot.
❓ FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato besides Yukon Gold?
While Yukon Golds are our top choice for this recipe, you can certainly use other potato varieties as well. Russet potatoes will also work, but they have a slightly different texture that may result in a less creamy final product. If using Russets, you may want to add a bit more yogurt or olive oil to achieve the desired consistency.
How can I make these mashed potatoes extra creamy?
To take the creaminess to the next level, try adding a tablespoon or two of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a splash of unsweetened almond milk. You can also use a hand mixer or stand mixer to really whip the potatoes until they’re light and fluffy.
Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! These Healthy Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes are the perfect make-ahead side dish. Simply prepare the recipe as directed, then transfer the mashed potatoes to a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven until hot and enjoy!
How can I make these mashed potatoes dairy-free?
To make these mashed potatoes dairy-free, simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt, such as coconut or almond milk yogurt. You can also use olive oil or coconut oil in place of the dairy-based butter or cream. The end result will be just as creamy and delicious, with no dairy in sight.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily customize these mashed potatoes by stirring in roasted garlic, caramelized onions, or even sautéed mushrooms. Just be mindful not to add too many additional ingredients, as you don’t want to overwhelm the natural flavors of the potatoes.
🙌 A Final Word from Our Kitchen
Thanksgiving just wouldn’t be the same without a heaping helping of creamy, comforting mashed potatoes. But this year, why not try a healthier, more nutrient-dense version that will leave you feeling satisfied, not sluggish? Trust me, your guests will be amazed at how flavorful and decadent these Healthy Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes are, without all the extra fat and calories. So go ahead, indulge guilt-free and enjoy every blissful bite!
And remember, the true joy of this dish lies not just in the taste, but in the memories and traditions it represents. So as you gather around the table this Thanksgiving, savor every moment with your loved ones and let these mashed potatoes be a delicious reminder of the abundance and gratitude that fills your heart.
Healthy Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes Recipe
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash the potatoes until they're smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the potatoes gummy.
- Stir in the Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper until the ingredients are fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with extra fresh herbs, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
