Buttery Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy Recipe

Recipe By:

Hannah Mitchell

Posted:

February 19, 2025

Updated:

February 19, 2025

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Have you ever tasted a dish so comforting that it feels like a warm hug? Imagine buttery mashed potatoes with savory gravy that melts in your mouth and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This classic comfort food is more than just a side; it’s an experience that elevates every meal. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home, these buttery mashed potatoes will undoubtedly steal the show.

These potatoes boast a creamy texture and rich flavor that pairs beautifully with meats, vegetables, or even on their own. The savory gravy adds another layer of delight, making each bite an adventure. Perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners alike, this recipe promises to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Buttery Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy

Comfort Food Classic: There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of buttery mashed potatoes topped with savory gravy. This dish evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth.
Versatile Pairing: These mashed potatoes complement a variety of dishes—from roasted meats to sautéed vegetables—making them the perfect side for any occasion.
Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, you can create this delicious dish without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen.
Quick Preparation: The steps are straightforward and quick, allowing you to whip up this delightful recipe in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Buttery Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes yield the fluffiest texture; choose large ones for easier peeling.
Unsalted Butter: Quality butter enhances creaminess; use unsalted to control the salt level in your dish.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness and smoothness; feel free to substitute half-and-half if you prefer a lighter option.
Salt: Essential for flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences during cooking.
Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper provides depth; add more if you enjoy a bit of spice.

For the Sauce:

Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth as the base for your gravy; it enhances flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
All-Purpose Flour: This thickens the gravy; whisk it well into the liquid to avoid lumps.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Buttery Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by peeling and chopping Russet potatoes into evenly-sized chunks (about 1-2 inches). Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Bring the pot of water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 3: Drain and Mash

Carefully drain the cooked potatoes in a colander. Return them to the pot while still hot. Add unsalted butter and begin mashing until smooth.

Step 4: Add Cream and Seasoning

Pour in heavy cream gradually while mashing until you achieve your desired consistency. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine beef broth with flour whisking constantly until thickened (about 5 minutes). Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Transfer your buttery mashed potatoes onto plates or bowls and drizzle generously with savory gravy for an unforgettable meal.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Warm Ingredients: Warm butter and cream mix better into hot potatoes resulting in creamier mash.
Avoid Over-Mixing: Mix just enough to combine; over-mixing can lead to gummy texture.
Add Garlic Powder: For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder while mashing your potatoes.

Mistakes to avoid

Using the wrong potato variety: Choosing the right type of potato is crucial for buttery mashed potatoes with savory gravy. Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds produce a creamy texture, while waxy varieties can lead to gluey results. Avoid using new potatoes or red potatoes, as they don’t break down as well when mashed. Always opt for starchy potatoes for that fluffy and buttery consistency you desire.
Overcooking the potatoes: Cooking your potatoes too long can make them waterlogged and mushy, ruining the overall texture of your dish. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness by piercing them with a fork. They should be tender but not falling apart. Aim for about 15-20 minutes of boiling time in salted water until they are perfectly cooked for buttery mashed potatoes with savory gravy.
Not seasoning the water: Failing to season the water while boiling your potatoes is a common mistake. If you skip this step, your mashed potatoes will taste bland despite all the butter and gravy you add later. Be generous with salt in the boiling water; it helps to flavor the potatoes from within. This simple step ensures that your buttery mashed potatoes with savory gravy truly shine.
Using cold ingredients: Adding cold butter or milk to your mashed potatoes can lower their temperature and affect their creaminess. For the best results, warm these ingredients before mixing them in. This way, they blend seamlessly into the hot potatoes, resulting in a rich and velvety texture that perfectly complements savory gravy.
Over-mashing the potatoes: While it may be tempting to use a food processor or mixer for convenience, over-mashing can create a gummy texture. Stick to hand mashing methods for better control over consistency. A potato masher or ricer works wonders without turning your beautiful spuds into paste, ensuring that your buttery mashed potatoes with savory gravy retain their delightful fluffiness.

Serving Suggestions

This Buttery Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Roasted Chicken: The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes complements the flavors of roasted chicken perfectly, making it a classic comfort food pairing.
Grilled Steak: The rich gravy enhances the savory notes of a well-grilled steak, creating a satisfying and hearty meal.
Vegetable Stir-fry: For a lighter option, serve these buttery mashed potatoes alongside a colorful vegetable stir-fry for a balanced dish.

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Buttery Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy?

To make Buttery Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy, you will need simple ingredients. Start with potatoes, preferably Yukon Gold or Russet, for their creamy texture. You will also require butter, heavy cream or milk, salt, and pepper to season the potatoes. For the savory gravy, gather beef or vegetable broth, flour, onions, and additional seasonings like garlic powder and thyme. These ingredients come together to create a delicious comfort food dish that is sure to please everyone at your table.

Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Buttery Mashed Potatoes ahead of time! Cook the potatoes as instructed and mash them. After adding butter and cream, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk to revive their creamy texture if needed. This makes meal prep easier and allows you to enjoy more time with your guests.

How do I achieve the perfect consistency for my mashed potatoes?

Achieving the perfect consistency for Buttery Mashed Potatoes requires careful handling. Start by boiling your potatoes until fork-tender but not overcooked. Drain them well to remove excess moisture before mashing. Use a potato masher or ricer for smooth results—avoid using a food processor as it can lead to gummy potatoes. Gradually add butter and cream while mixing until you reach your desired creaminess. Season well with salt and pepper for flavor.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

If you’re looking for alternatives to heavy cream in Buttery Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy, several options exist. You can use half-and-half for a lighter version that still maintains richness. Alternatively, try sour cream or Greek yogurt to add tanginess while keeping the potatoes creamy. For dairy-free options, consider coconut milk or almond milk; just ensure they are unsweetened varieties for proper flavor balance.

Conclusion for Buttery Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy

In conclusion, Buttery Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy is an essential comfort food that elevates any meal. With simple ingredients like potatoes, butter, and broth, you can create a dish that is both rich and satisfying. Serving suggestions such as roasted chicken or grilled steak enhance its appeal further. Preparing these mashed potatoes ahead of time allows for easy meal planning without sacrificing quality. By following our tips on consistency and ingredient substitutions, you’ll impress family and friends alike with this delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your dining table!