Save Brown Butter Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes are that irresistible comfort side every family table needs. Picture heaps of creamy Yukon Golds lush with toasty brown butter, sweet roasted garlic, and handfuls of fresh herbs. This recipe is one I turn to for everything from holiday feasts to weeknight suppers, and the taste always leaves everyone reaching for seconds.
I first made this dish for Thanksgiving and my whole family swooned. Now my husband requests it even with simple grilled veggies because it just upgrades every meal.
Ingredients
- Yukon Gold potatoes: These are naturally creamy with a subtle buttery note Choose firm potatoes with smooth skin for best results
- Unsalted butter: lets you control the seasoning Browning it unlocks a deep nutty aroma Use European-style butter for a richer taste if possible
- Whole milk: keeps the mash extra creamy Warm it before mixing to prevent cooling your potatoes
- Fresh garlic: infuses sweet mellow flavor when roasted Pick plump tightly-skinned cloves for best results
- Fresh chives: add delicate onion notes Choose bright green and crisp shoots
- Fresh parsley: brings a pop of freshness Flat-leaf is best for flavor
- Fresh thyme: gives earthy herby notes If using dried thyme rub it between your hands to release more aroma
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: enhance all the flavors Always taste and adjust at the end
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes:
- Peel and cut Yukon Gold potatoes into even chunks so they cook evenly Rinse well to remove excess starch which helps prevent gluey mash
- Boil the Potatoes:
- Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold salted water This ensures the potatoes heat and cook evenly from the inside out Bring to a boil over medium-high heat then lower the heat and simmer until fork tender This usually takes about fifteen to eighteen minutes Check by piercing with a fork
- Brown the Butter and Roast Garlic:
- While potatoes cook add unsalted butter and peeled garlic cloves to a small saucepan over medium heat Watch closely Swirl or stir often as the butter melts and begins to foam You want the solids to turn golden and smell nutty This takes about six to eight minutes The garlic will become tender and mellow Set both butter and garlic aside
- Mash the Garlic:
- Scoop out the now-tender garlic cloves from the butter Using a fork mash them into a paste This step unlocks their sweetness and blends perfectly in the finished mash
- Dry the Potatoes:
- Drain the cooked potatoes well and return them to the hot pot Place the pot over low heat for a couple of minutes to let steam escape and dry out excess moisture This tiny step makes your mash extra fluffy
- Mash and Mix:
- Mash the dried potatoes using a masher or ricer Add the reserved brown butter along with the mashed garlic Gradually pour in the warmed milk mixing as you go until everything is creamy and smooth
- Stir in the Herbs and Seasonings:
- Finely chop your chives parsley and thyme Gently fold into the potatoes with salt and pepper Mix until all the flavors are combined Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed
- Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a warm serving dish Top with extra herbs and drizzle on any remaining brown butter for flavor and shine Serve hot and enjoy every decadent spoonful
Save Roasting garlic right in the butter is my favorite shortcut for deep flavor without extra pans My kids always snitch a spoonful from the pot before I can even serve it It is amazing how the golden brown butter transforms ordinary potatoes into a new family classic
Storage Tips
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days To reheat stir in a splash of milk and cover loosely then warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop For longer storage freeze cooled portions in freezer bags and thaw gently before reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
Substitute half the milk with heavy cream or sour cream for even silkier mash You can swap Yukon Golds for Russet potatoes for a fluffier texture Dried herbs will still work in a pinch but use half as much since flavors are concentrated
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a natural match for holiday roasts like turkey beef or ham Serve alongside vegetarian mains such as lentil loaf or mushroom gravy For a weeknight treat top leftovers with a fried egg and a curl of extra herbs
Save Serve these mashed potatoes at your next gathering and watch as every last spoonful disappears A simple twist creates lasting memories around the table
Recipe Guide
- → How do you achieve creamy texture in mashed potatoes?
Use Yukon Gold potatoes, mash well, and incorporate warm milk with browned butter for a luxurious consistency.
- → What herbs work best with mashed potatoes?
Fresh chives, parsley, and thyme provide brightness and depth, complementing the buttery potatoes beautifully.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the mashed potatoes, then reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess before serving.
- → What main dishes pair well with these potatoes?
They’re excellent alongside roast chicken, steak, or vegetarian entrées, balancing out robust flavors with creamy comfort.
- → Are these potatoes suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes. The ingredients are naturally gluten-free; just check dairy labels for cross-contamination if sensitive.