I. Introduction

Mashed potatoes are a beloved side dish that have been a staple on dinner tables for generations. It’s hard to go wrong with a classic recipe, but there are many different ways to make mashed potatoes that can take them to the next level. In this article, we will cover everything from the basics to unique variations, low-fat alternatives, and tips for meal prepping and reheating. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to make the perfect mashed potatoes every time.

II. Classic mashed potatoes recipe: A step-by-step guide to perfect mashed potatoes

To make classic mashed potatoes, you’ll need potatoes, butter, milk or cream, salt, and pepper. You’ll also need a large pot for boiling the potatoes, a potato masher or electric mixer, and a saucepan for heating the milk and butter. Here’s how to make mashed potatoes:

1. Peel and slice 2 pounds of potatoes into 1-inch pieces. Rinse in cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Place the potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them by an inch. Add a generous pinch of salt.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
4. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with a potato masher or use an electric mixer on low speed.
5. In a saucepan, heat ½ cup of milk and 4 tablespoons of butter until the butter is melted and the milk is hot.
6. Pour the hot milk and butter over the mashed potatoes and stir until combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Common mistakes to avoid when making mashed potatoes include overcooking the potatoes, adding too much liquid, and not seasoning properly. Be sure to taste and adjust as you go, and don’t be afraid to add more butter or milk if you feel the potatoes are too dry.

III. 5 unique twists on mashed potatoes: Elevate your side dish game

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new, there are many ways to elevate mashed potatoes and make them even more delicious. Here are five unique twists on mashed potatoes:

1. Loaded mashed potatoes

To make loaded mashed potatoes, add cooked bacon, cheese, and chives to the classic recipe.

1. Cook 4 strips of bacon until crispy, then crumble.
2. Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the crumbled bacon into the mashed potatoes
3. Sprinkle chopped chives on top before serving.

2. Garlic mashed potatoes

To make garlic mashed potatoes, add roasted garlic to the classic recipe.

1. Roast a head of garlic by cutting off the top, drizzling with olive oil, and wrapping in foil. Bake in a 400°F oven for 45 minutes, or until soft.
2. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and mash them into the potatoes.

3. Blue cheese mashed potatoes

To make blue cheese mashed potatoes, add crumbled blue cheese to the classic recipe.

1. Stir in ½ cup of crumbled blue cheese into the mashed potatoes.
2. Drizzle with honey before serving.

4. Horseradish mashed potatoes

To make horseradish mashed potatoes, add prepared horseradish to the classic recipe.

1. Stir in 3 tablespoons of prepared horseradish into the mashed potatoes.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

5. Wasabi mashed potatoes

To make wasabi mashed potatoes, add wasabi paste to the classic recipe.

1. Stir in 1 tablespoon of wasabi paste into the mashed potatoes.
2. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions before serving.

IV. Comfort food made healthy: Low-fat mashed potatoes recipe

For a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, try this low-fat recipe that uses chicken broth and Greek yogurt instead of milk and butter.

1. Peel and slice 2 pounds of potatoes into 1-inch pieces. Rinse in cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Place the potatoes in a large pot and add enough chicken broth to cover them by an inch. Add a generous pinch of salt.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
4. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with a potato masher or use an electric mixer on low speed.
5. Stir in ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper to taste.

Despite being lower in fat, this recipe still has plenty of flavor thanks to the tanginess of Greek yogurt and the kick from Dijon mustard.

V. Going beyond the spud: Delicious mashed potato alternatives to try

If you’re not a fan of potatoes, or just want to try something different, there are many other vegetables that can be mashed and used as a side dish. Here are three delicious alternatives:

1. Cauliflower mash

To make cauliflower mash, steam a head of cauliflower and puree it with a little bit of milk, butter, and salt.

2. Sweet potato mash

To make sweet potato mash, roast 2 large sweet potatoes in the oven, then puree them with a little bit of milk, honey, and cinnamon.

3. Parsnip mash

To make parsnip mash, boil 6 parsnips until tender, then puree them with a little bit of milk, butter, and salt.

VI. Making the best mashed potatoes ahead of time: Tips for meal prep and reheating

Mashed potatoes are a perfect dish for meal prepping since they can easily be made ahead of time and reheated when needed. Here are some tips for making the best mashed potatoes ahead of time:

1. After making the mashed potatoes, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
2. When ready to reheat, transfer the mashed potatoes to a microwave-safe container and add a splash of milk or butter.
3. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until heated through.
4. If you prefer, you can also reheat the mashed potatoes in the oven. Transfer them to a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

VII. Conclusion

Mashed potatoes are a versatile and delicious side dish that can be served with just about any meal. Whether you’re making classic mashed potatoes, experimenting with unique twists, or trying out alternative vegetables, there are endless possibilities for making the perfect mashed potatoes. With these easy recipes and tips for meal prepping and reheating, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious mashed potatoes any day of the week.