Description
Mashed Potatoes Dinner Idea transforms creamy, buttery mashed potatoes into a customizable, comforting main dish. Topped with a variety of proteins, veggies, and sauces, it’s perfect for busy nights or family dinners.
Ingredients
2 lbs Russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1/4 cup sour cream, or 2 oz cream cheese
Optional toppings: gravy or cheese sauce
Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan)
Crispy bacon bits
Sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions
Roasted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, Brussels sprouts)
Shredded rotisserie chicken, ground beef, or pulled pork
Chopped chives, parsley, or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Boil peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.
- Drain and return potatoes to the pot to steam off excess moisture.
- Mash with butter and milk (or cream) until smooth and fluffy.
- Season generously with salt and pepper. Add optional sour cream, garlic, or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Spoon mashed potatoes into bowls and top with your favorite mix-ins.
- Set up a mashed potato bar for a fun, build-your-own dinner experience.
Notes
Use Yukon Gold for a buttery flavor or Russet for fluffiness.
Add cream cheese or sour cream for extra creaminess.
Mashed potatoes freeze well—portion and store for up to 2 months.
Keep warm in a slow cooker with a bit of butter on top to prevent drying out.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Boiled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (with basic toppings)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 50mg