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13 Best Sauces for Mashed Potatoes (Mashed Potatoes Sauce)

If there’s one side dish that everyone can agree on, it’s mashed potatoes.

Creamy, fluffy, and full of flavor, mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to any dinner dish, whether it’s a juicy steak or a hearty serving of green beans.

And let’s be honest, what’s a plate of mashed potatoes without a delicious gravy or sauce to pour over it?

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best sauces for mashed potatoes, from classic recipes like gravy and cream sauce to unconventional options like caramel sauce and garlic-infused mash.

Whether you’re looking for a recipe to make in your air fryer or a side dish to serve at your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered.

So, let’s get started and learn how to make the creamiest, most flavorful mashed potatoes with the perfect sauce to match.

KFC Potato and Gravy

Classic Sauces for Mashed Potatoes

When it comes to classic sauces for mashed potatoes, nothing beats a good gravy recipe. Whether you prefer a creamy mashed potato gravy or a savory stock-based gravy, it’s hard to go wrong with this classic choice.

  1. One delicious option is to make a gravy using the drippings from a roasted chicken or turkey, adding in some flour, stock, and heavy cream to create a rich and flavorful sauce. Alternatively, you could use bouillon or stock as the base for a vegetarian-friendly gravy that’s just as delicious.
  2. If you’re in the mood for something a little creamier, try making a cream sauce for your mashed potatoes. This is a simple sauce that combines butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese, which is then poured over the top of the mashed potatoes. The result is a decadent and creamy dish that’s sure to be a hit at any dinner party.
  3. For a tangy twist on the classic mashed potato, consider sour cream mashed potatoes. This recipe calls for the addition of sour cream to the mashed potatoes, which gives them a tangy flavor and creamy texture. You can also add cheddar cheese to your sour cream mashed potatoes to create an even more flavorful dish.
  4. Finally, for a classic mashed potato recipe that’s both creamy and flavorful, consider adding a cream sauce to your mash. This recipe combines whipping cream, butter, garlic, and pepper to create a rich and creamy sauce that perfectly complements the flavor of the mashed potatoes. Whether you prefer a classic flavor or something with a little kick, these classic sauces are sure to be a hit with any mashed potato dish.

Unconventional Sauces for Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking to switch things up from the classic sauces for mashed potatoes, try out some unconventional options that are sure to impress your dinner guests.

  1. One unique option is to use caramel sauce as a topping for your mashed potatoes. This may sound odd, but the sweetness of the caramel pairs surprisingly well with the creamy and savory flavor of the mashed potatoes. You could also add a sprinkle of sea salt to balance out the sweetness and add a touch of flavor.
  2. Another unconventional option is to make a cheese sauce for your mashed potatoes. While cheddar cheese is a classic addition to mashed potatoes, you could take it a step further and create a cheese sauce by melting together cheddar cheese and heavy cream. This creates a rich and indulgent sauce that’s perfect for a special occasion.
  3. For those who love bold flavors, try out a spicy mashed potato recipe. This can be achieved by adding diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to your mashed potatoes. The heat from these ingredients pairs well with the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes, creating a unique and flavorful dish.
  4. Finally, for a twist on the classic gravy recipe, consider adding some green beans to create a green bean gravy. This recipe involves cooking green beans in butter and chicken stock, and then blending them into a creamy sauce. The result is a flavorful and vibrant gravy that’s perfect for serving with mashed potatoes and other dinner dishes.

Tips for Making the Best Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect mashed potatoes requires attention to detail and the right techniques. Here are some tips to help you create creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes that are sure to be a hit:

  1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Not all potatoes are created equal when it comes to making mashed potatoes. Russet potatoes are the best choice, as they are starchy and have a creamy texture that makes them ideal for mashing.
  2. Use the Right Tool: To achieve the perfect texture for your mashed potatoes, use a potato masher or ricer. Avoid using a food processor or blender, as this can result in gluey mashed potatoes.
  3. Add Flavors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors when making mashed potatoes. Garlic, parmesan cheese, and chives are all great options to add flavor to your mashed potatoes.
  4. The Importance of Temperature: For the creamiest mashed potatoes, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing them together. Using cold butter, milk, or cream can cause the mashed potatoes to become lumpy and uneven.
  5. Choose the Right Sauce: The sauce you choose to serve with your mashed potatoes can make or break the dish. Whether you prefer a classic gravy, a creamy sauce, or an unconventional option, make sure to choose a sauce that complements the flavor of your mashed potatoes.

By following these tips, you can create perfect mashed potatoes that are full of flavor and perfectly complemented by a delicious sauce. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different recipes and techniques to find the perfect mashed potato recipe for you.

Cheddar Cheese vs Sour Cream vs Cream Sauce for Your Mash

When it comes to choosing a sauce for your mashed potatoes, there are several classic options to consider.

Among these, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cream sauce are three popular choices. Each has its own unique flavor and texture, and the sauce you choose can greatly impact the overall taste of your mashed potatoes.

  1. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for mashed potatoes, providing a creamy and slightly tangy flavor that pairs well with the starchiness of the potatoes. Cheddar cheese can be added to the mashed potatoes themselves, or melted into a sauce that can be poured over the top. Either way, the result is a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
  2. Sour cream is another popular choice for mashed potatoes, offering a tangy and slightly acidic flavor that cuts through the creaminess of the potatoes. Sour cream can be mixed directly into the mashed potatoes, or used as a topping to add a tangy flavor to each bite. This option is especially popular for those who prefer a lighter and more refreshing flavor.
  3. Cream sauce is a luxurious and indulgent option for mashed potatoes, offering a rich and velvety texture that pairs well with the creaminess of the potatoes. This sauce is made by combining butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese, which is then poured over the top of the mashed potatoes. The result is a decadent and creamy dish that’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to indulge in something truly delicious.

My Favorite Gravy Recipe for A Mashed Potato Meal

One of the best parts of a mashed potato meal is the rich and savory gravy that accompanies it.

While there are many different gravy recipes to choose from, my personal favorite is a classic brown gravy that’s both easy to make and delicious.

To make this gravy, you’ll need:

  • 1/4 cup of butter
  • 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups of beef or chicken stock
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. To start, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to turn brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Slowly add the beef or chicken stock, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
  3. Finally, season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste, and serve it hot over your mashed potatoes.

The beauty of this gravy recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding different herbs or spices, such as thyme or rosemary, for added flavor.

Alternatively, you could add a splash of heavy cream to create a creamier gravy that pairs well with mashed potatoes.

FAQ

What does Gordon Ramsay put in his mashed potatoes?

To make his famous mashed potatoes, Gordon Ramsay adds butter, salt to taste, and hot milk to cooked and drained potatoes. He then mashes the mixture thoroughly with a potato masher until it reaches an extremely creamy texture.

For an added kick of flavor, Ramsay suggests melting butter and garlic together at the same time to infuse the garlic flavor. Once the potatoes are mashed to perfection, they can be removed from the pot and placed in a serving dish for everyone to enjoy.

With these simple ingredients and techniques, you too can make Gordon Ramsay’s signature mashed potatoes at home.

What can I put in mashed potatoes instead of gravy?

If you’re looking for an alternative to gravy for your mashed potatoes, there are several options to consider. Some people prefer a simple pat of butter on top of their mashed potatoes, while others enjoy a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.

For a healthier option, consider adding some herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the mashed potatoes for added flavor. You could also try making a cream sauce or cheese sauce to pour over the top of the mashed potatoes instead of gravy. The options are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find the perfect topping for your mashed potatoes.

What is good for mashed potatoes?

There are several ingredients that can be added to mashed potatoes to enhance their flavor and texture. Some classic options include butter, heavy cream, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. You could also add garlic, parmesan cheese, or chives for added flavor.

For a healthier option, consider adding some chicken or vegetable stock instead of butter or cream. Additionally, you could try incorporating some mashed beans or cauliflower for added nutrients and texture. The key is to experiment with different ingredients and find the combination that works best for you.

How do you fix bland mashed potatoes?

If your mashed potatoes are lacking in flavor, there are several ways to fix them. First, try adding more salt to taste. Salt can greatly enhance the flavor of mashed potatoes and bring out their natural sweetness. You could also try adding some herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or chives, for added flavor. Another option is to add garlic or parmesan cheese for a savory kick.

If your mashed potatoes are too thick, try adding some milk or cream to thin them out and improve the texture. With a little bit of experimentation, you can easily fix bland mashed potatoes and turn them into a delicious side dish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mashed potatoes are a classic and versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of sauces and flavors. Whether you prefer a classic gravy recipe, a tangy sour cream mash, or an unconventional caramel sauce topping, there’s a mashed potato recipe for everyone.

To make the perfect mashed potatoes, it’s important to use the right potatoes, mashing tool, and temperature. Adding flavors such as garlic, parmesan cheese, and chives can take your mashed potatoes to the next level.

And don’t forget to choose the right sauce to complement the dish, whether it’s a classic gravy recipe, a creamy sauce, or an unconventional option.

Overall, mashed potatoes are a comfort food favorite that are perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. So, grab your masher or ricer, choose your favorite sauce, and get ready to make the creamiest, most flavorful mashed potatoes you’ve ever tasted.

Related:

13 Best Sauces for Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that can be found on many dinner tables, but they can be a bit bland on their own.
That’s why it’s always a good idea to have a variety of sauces for mashed potatoes on hand to give them a flavor boost.
From creamy cheese sauces to spicy salsas, these 15 sauces can transform your mash into something extraordinary.
Each of these recipes is easy to make and can be used to dress up a side dish, or even as a main course.
From classic cheddar cheese to smoky chipotle, these sauces will be sure to tantalize your taste buds. So get ready to dig in and enjoy the deliciousness that these sauces can bring to your mashed potatoes.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 410 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Creamy Sauce
  • Lemon Butter Sauce
  • Brown Gravy
  • Cheese Gravy
  • Mushroom Sauce
  • Middle Eastern Garlic Sauce
  • Creamy Peppered White Gravy
  • Lemon Beurre Blanc Sauce
  • Creamy Dijon Mustard Sauce
  • Tartar Sauce
  • Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
  • Roasted Red Pepper Pesto
  • Creamy Peppercorn Sauce
  • Dijon Mustard Sauce
  • Browned Butter Sauce

Instructions
 

  • Pick your favorite sauce or gravy from this list to use with your recipe.
  • Prepare the ingredients according to the recipe.
  • Prep a saucy potato mash in 25 minutes or less.
Keyword Sauces for Mashed Potatoes
CEO at Happy Muncher | benjamin@happymuncher.com | Website | + posts

Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.