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Winter’s chill can’t compare to the warmth of homemade mashed potatoes and gravy. This comfort food was a staple at our family gatherings. It brought back memories of warmth and joy.
Now, I’m excited to share a recipe that brings back those memories. It’s all about creamy mashed potatoes and a rich, velvety gravy.
Key Takeaways
- Creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes made with the right ingredients
- Homemade gravy with a rich, velvety texture
- The ultimate comfort food side dish for holidays and family dinners
- Serves 6 people, making it perfect for gatherings
- Easy to follow step-by-step instructions for perfect results
Why Homemade Mashed Potatoes and Gravy are the Ultimate Comfort Food
Mashed potatoes and gravy are a cherished potato dishes that bring warmth and comfort. The mix of creamy mashed potatoes and savory gravy is a timeless favorite. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or holiday meals, offering a satisfying and soothing experience.
The mashed potatoes’ velvety texture comes from butter, cream, and seasonings. This makes a rich base for the flavorful gravy. The gravy, made from meat drippings or broth, adds a depth of flavor, completing the dish.
Mashed potatoes and gravy hold a special place in many hearts. They remind us of family gatherings and cherished traditions. Making and sharing this dish can bring people together, fostering a sense of community.
Looking for a cozy meal or a nostalgic treat? Homemade mashed potatoes and gravy are the ultimate comfort food. They warm your soul and satisfy your cravings.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Mashed Potatoes
Starting with the right ingredients is key to making great homemade mashed potatoes. Choose 3-4 pounds of thin-skinned potatoes like Yukon Gold, creamers, or baby potatoes. These potatoes give a creamy, fluffy texture when mashed.
Best Potato Varieties for Mashing
For mashing, thin-skinned potatoes like Yukon Gold, baby potatoes, and creamers are perfect. They have low starch and a soft, buttery texture. This makes the mash smooth and velvety. Small yellow, white, or red potatoes also work well.
Dairy Components for Creaminess
To get the creamiest mash, mix different dairy ingredients. Start with 1/2 cup of whole milk. Add 1/4 cup of butter for extra richness. For an even creamier texture, add 1/2 cup of sour cream.
Seasonings and Additional Flavorings
Season your mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. For more flavor, add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 1/2 teaspoons of garlic powder.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yukon Gold potatoes | 3.5 lbs |
| Whole milk | 1/2 cup |
| Butter | 1/4 cup |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic powder | 1 1/2 tsp |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make perfect homemade mashed potatoes. Adjust the seasoning to your liking for a dish that’s truly delightful.
Step-by-Step Potato Preparation Method
Getting the perfect mashed potatoes starts with the right prep. Peel and cut your potatoes into quarters. This ensures they cook evenly and mash up smooth and creamy. Put the potatoes in a big pot and cover them with cold, salty water.
Heat the pot until it boils, then turn the heat down. Let the potatoes simmer for 20-25 minutes until they’re tender. It’s important to drain the potatoes well. This removes any extra moisture before you mash them.
After draining, put the potatoes back in the pot. Let them sit for 30 seconds. This helps get rid of any remaining moisture. It keeps your mashed potatoes from being sticky or gluey.
- Peel and quarter 4 lbs (12 medium) russet potatoes.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the hot pot for 30 seconds to evaporate any remaining moisture.
Now that your potatoes are cooked and dried, you’re ready to mash. Start making that creamy, comforting mashed potato and gravy dish.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Russet Potatoes | 4 lbs (12 medium) |
| Unsalted Butter | 16 Tbsp (2 sticks) |
| Salt | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Hot Milk | 1 1/4 cups |
| Fresh Parsley or Chives (for garnish) | 1 Tbsp |
By following these simple steps for potato preparation, you’ll be well on your way to creating the ultimate comfort food – homemade mashed potatoes and gravy.
Mastering the Mashing Technique
Making perfect mashed potatoes is an art. The mashing technique is key, whether you use a traditional potato masher or an electric mixer. Knowing the right way can make a huge difference.
Hand Mashing vs. Electric Mixer Methods
Hand mashing with a potato masher or ricer can make potatoes smooth and creamy. It’s important to mash gently. This way, the potatoes break down slowly without becoming too sticky.
An electric mixer with a whisk can also make potatoes creamy. It whips in air, making the mash light and fluffy. Start slow and increase speed to avoid a sticky mess.
Achieving the Perfect Consistency
The secret to perfect mashed potatoes is warm dairy. Add warm milk and butter slowly while whisking or mashing. This helps the potatoes absorb flavors, making them smooth and creamy.
Common Mashing Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing: This can make potatoes sticky, so mix carefully.
- Using cold dairy: Cold milk or butter can make potatoes cold and uneven.
- Insufficient mashing: Not mashing enough can leave lumps, making the mash uneven.
- Oversalting: Too much salt can ruin the taste, so start with a little and adjust.
With practice and attention to detail, you’ll make perfect mashed potatoes every time.
Classic Homemade Gravy Recipe
Make your mashed potatoes even better with homemade gravy. This recipe is simple and makes your dish taste like it came from a restaurant.
To start, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter or fatty drippings in a saucepan. Heat it over medium heat. Then, whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute. Stir constantly until it’s golden brown. This makes the roux, which thickens the gravy.
Next, slowly whisk in 2 cups of broth or stock. Keep cooking and stirring until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of poultry seasoning for extra flavor.
| Nutrition Facts (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 86 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 17 mg |
| Sodium | 274 mg |
| Potassium | 72 mg |
| Fiber | 0.1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Vitamin A | 179 IU |
| Vitamin C | 0.4 mg |
| Calcium | 5 mg |
| Iron | 0.3 mg |
To get the right consistency, add more broth to thin it out or simmer to thicken. Adjust the seasoning to taste. This homemade gravy can be made ahead and reheated, perfect for topping mashed potatoes.
This gravy recipes is great with mashed potatoes, roasted meats, or biscuits. It adds a rich, velvety texture and deep flavor that homemade gravy provides.
Creating Restaurant-Style Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
Take your mashed potatoes to the next level with garlic parmesan mashed potatoes. This recipe adds a rich, creamy twist to the classic dish. It’s perfect for satisfying your cravings for indulgent potatoes.
Adding Garlic and Parmesan
To make garlic parmesan mashed potatoes, start with 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese. The garlic brings a savory flavor. The parmesan adds a creamy texture and umami taste.
Special Seasoning Tips
For a better flavor, warm the garlic in melted butter or milk before mixing it into the potatoes. This step releases the garlic’s oils, boosting its aroma and taste. You can also add a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
This side dish is sure to wow your family and guests. Serve it with your favorite protein or smother it in homemade gravy for a special treat.
“Creamy, savory, and irresistible – these garlic parmesan mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food.”
Tips for Keeping Mashed Potatoes Warm
Mashed potatoes are a key part of many Thanksgiving meals. Keeping them warm and creamy can be tricky for home cooks. It’s important to find a way to keep them at the right temperature and texture until serving time. Luckily, there are a few easy tips to help your mashed potatoes stay warm and inviting.
One good way is to put them in an oven-safe dish with a lid or cover them with foil. Then, keep them in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F) for up to an hour. Make sure to stir them every now and then to avoid drying or burning.
For a simpler option, use a slow cooker on the “warm” setting. Just put the mashed potatoes in the slow cooker and stir them every 30 minutes to keep them even.
If you don’t have an oven or slow cooker, a water bath works well. Fill a large, deep dish with hot water. Then, put your mashed potatoes in the water. This keeps them warm and prevents them from cooling down too fast.
Choosing any of these methods helps keep mashed potatoes warm. The main thing is to not let them sit at room temperature for too long. With these simple techniques, your homemade mashed potatoes will stay hot, creamy, and ready for your guests.
“The key to keeping mashed potatoes warm is to avoid letting them sit at room temperature for too long. By using one of these simple techniques, you can ensure your homemade mashed potatoes stay hot, creamy, and ready to be enjoyed by your guests.”
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Keeping your mashed potatoes fresh is key. You need to know how to store and reheat them right. This way, you’ll enjoy your homemade mashed potatoes at their best.
Proper Storage Methods
Put leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last 3-5 days this way. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in bags or containers for up to a year. Just remember, their quality might not be the same.
Best Reheating Techniques
There are a few ways to reheat mashed potatoes. The oven is a good choice. Just spread them in a greased dish and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
On the stovetop, heat them in a pot over medium heat, stirring often. The crockpot is also great, heating them on low for 2 hours. For the microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until warm.
Remember to add a bit of milk or butter when reheating. This keeps them creamy and prevents drying out.
FAQ
What are the best types of potatoes for making mashed potatoes?
Russet, yellow, or Yukon gold potatoes are the best. They have more starch, making your mashed potatoes light and fluffy.
What ingredients are needed for creamy mashed potatoes?
You’ll need 1/2 cup whole milk, 1/4 cup butter, and 1/2 cup sour cream. Don’t forget salt, pepper, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder for extra flavor.
How do you prepare the potatoes for mashing?
Start by peeling and quartering the potatoes. Boil them in cold salted water until tender. Drain and dry them for 30 seconds before mashing.
What is the best way to mash the potatoes?
Use a potato masher or a stand mixer with a whisk. For smoother potatoes, try an electric hand-mixer. But don’t overmix to avoid a gummy texture.
How do you make the perfect gravy to accompany the mashed potatoes?
Melt 1/2 cup butter in a saucepan. Whisk in 1/4 cup flour until golden. Then, add 2 cups water, 1 cup milk, 3 chicken bouillon cubes, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Stir constantly until it thickens.
How can you make garlic Parmesan mashed potatoes?
Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder to the basic recipe. This makes your mashed potatoes rich and flavorful, just like in a restaurant.
How can you keep mashed potatoes warm for serving?
Place them in an oven-safe dish with a lid or foil in a 300°F oven. Stir occasionally for up to an hour. Or, use a slow cooker on low or warm setting, stirring now and then.
How should you store and reheat leftover mashed potatoes?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 30 minutes, on the stovetop, in a crockpot, or in the microwave. Always add more liquid and butter to keep them creamy.
Can you make mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the mashed potatoes as usual, then cool and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with added milk or butter to restore creaminess.
What can you use instead of milk in mashed potatoes?
You can substitute milk with heavy cream, half-and-half, or even unsweetened plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. For a tangy twist, try buttermilk or Greek yogurt.
How do you prevent lumps in mashed potatoes?
To avoid lumps, ensure the potatoes are fully cooked and soft before mashing. Use a potato ricer or food mill for the smoothest texture. Avoid using a blender or food processor, as they can make the potatoes gummy.
Can mashed potatoes be frozen?
Yes, mashed potatoes can be frozen. Use an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding butter or cream to restore texture.
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