When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a big, warm bowl of mashed potatoes. They’re the reliable sidekick to so many wonderful meals, from weeknight dinners to grand holiday feasts. But what if we took that classic side dish and gave it a little something extra? That’s exactly what we’re doing today with The Creamiest Garlic & Herb Mashed Potatoes Your Family Will Devour. This isn’t just another mashed potato recipe; it’s a simple, budget-friendly way to create a side dish so flavorful and fluffy, it might just steal the show.
We’re using a simple homemade garlic and herb seasoning blend that brings a savory, aromatic flavor to every single bite. The secret to the amazing texture is a combination of a classic masher and a quick whip with a hand mixer, making them unbelievably light and creamy. Get ready to make a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honestly, what’s not to love? This recipe is a keeper for so many reasons. First off, it’s incredibly budget-friendly. Using humble russet potatoes and common pantry spices, you can make a standout side dish for just a few dollars. It’s proof that you don’t need expensive ingredients to create something delicious. We’re talking less than $3 for a huge pot that can feed the whole family!
It’s also a fantastic recipe for any skill level. Whether you’re a seasoned pro in the kitchen or just starting out, the steps are straightforward and easy to follow. Plus, it’s a great addition to your collection of Thanksgiving recipes side dishes. Imagine these creamy potatoes next to your turkey and gravy—they fit right in. The combination of simple preparation and fantastic flavor makes this one of the best Thanksgiving food sides you can add to your menu.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 2.5 lbs. russet potatoes ($0.87)
- 1/2 tsp salt ($0.02)
- 4 Tbsp butter ($0.72)
- 1/2 cup whole milk ($0.16)
For the All-Purpose Garlic Herb Seasoning
- 1 tsp dried parsley ($0.10)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano ($0.05)
- 1/2 tsp dried basil ($0.05)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder ($0.02)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder ($0.02)
- 1/4 tsp salt ($0.02)
- freshly cracked pepper ($0.02)
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
First things first, let’s get those potatoes ready. Peel your russet potatoes and then chop them into uniform 1-inch cubes. Getting the pieces to be roughly the same size is important because it helps them cook evenly. Nobody wants a lumpy mash with undercooked potato bits! Once they’re all cubed, place them in a colander and give them a good rinse under cool water. This washes away some of the excess starch, which is a key step for fluffy potatoes.
Step 2: Boil Until Tender
Transfer the rinsed potato cubes into a large pot. Add enough cool water to cover the potatoes by about one inch. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of salt—this seasons the potatoes from the inside out as they cook. Cover the pot, turn the heat to high, and bring it to a rolling boil. Once it’s boiling, let them cook until they are VERY tender. You can test this by poking a cube with a fork; if it slides off easily with no resistance, they’re ready. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
Step 3: Drain and Heat the Dairy
Once the potatoes are perfectly tender, carefully drain them in a colander. To keep them from getting gummy, give them a quick rinse with hot water. Now, using the same pot (we love fewer dishes to wash!), add the butter, milk, and all of the garlic herb seasoning ingredients. Turn the heat to low and stir gently until the butter is completely melted and the milk is nice and hot. Don’t let it boil, just warm it through.
Step 4: Mash and Whip to Perfection
Add the drained potatoes back into the pot with the warm, seasoned milk and butter. Turn off the heat. Grab a potato masher and get to work, mashing until the potatoes are mostly broken down. Now for the magic trick: use a hand mixer on a low setting to briefly whip the potatoes. This is how you achieve that light, fluffy, and incredibly creamy texture. It only takes a minute! Give them a taste and add a pinch more salt if you think they need it. And that’s it! Serve them up hot.
How To Store Leftovers
Got leftovers? No problem! These mashed potatoes store beautifully. Simply let them cool down completely to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making them one of the great make-ahead fall dinner ideas.
When you’re ready to reheat, you can do so in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Or, for a creamier result, warm them up in a saucepan over low heat. You might want to add a splash of milk or a small pat of butter to bring back that just-made creaminess. They’ll taste just as good as they did on day one!
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple, flavorful, and budget-friendly recipe for The Creamiest Garlic & Herb Mashed Potatoes Your Family Will Devour. This dish is more than just a side; it’s a bowl of pure comfort that can bring a little extra warmth to any meal. Whether you’re planning your Thanksgiving recipes or just looking for a way to make a weeknight dinner special, these potatoes are a fantastic choice. They are proof that a few simple ingredients, when put together with a little care, can create something truly wonderful. Enjoy every creamy, fluffy spoonful!
FAQ
What are the best potatoes for mashing?
Russet potatoes are generally considered the best for mashing. They have a high starch content and a floury texture, which results in potatoes that are light and fluffy rather than gummy or waxy. Yukon Golds are another great option if you prefer a slightly denser, more buttery flavor.
Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! You can make them a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore their creamy consistency. This is a great tip for planning holiday meals like Thanksgiving.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Of course! Fresh herbs will add a brighter flavor. A good rule of thumb is to use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried. So, for this recipe, you would use about 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, 1.5 teaspoons of fresh oregano, and 1.5 teaspoons of fresh basil, all finely chopped.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can easily adapt this recipe to be dairy-free. Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use an unsweetened, plain plant-based milk like almond or soy milk. The results will still be delicious and creamy.
