Oh, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when families gather around the table, and the aroma of home-cooked dishes fills the air. One dish that always brings a smile to my face is my make-ahead mashed potatoes. Trust me, these creamy, buttery dreams are the perfect side to any turkey or roast! The best part? You can whip them up a day in advance, so you can spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Plus, the smooth texture and rich flavor are simply irresistible! Once you try this recipe, you’ll be making them for every holiday gathering. Let’s dive in and make your Thanksgiving stress-free and delicious!
Ingredients for Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes Thanksgiving
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making those dreamy mashed potatoes! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 5 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed – I love using Russet potatoes for that fluffy texture!
- 1 cup milk – Whole milk works wonders, but you can use whatever you have on hand.
- 1/2 cup butter – Seriously, don’t skimp on the butter! It adds that rich flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream – This gives the potatoes a creamy, tangy kick that’s simply divine.
- Salt to taste – Don’t forget to season; it makes all the difference!
- Pepper to taste – A little pepper adds a nice warmth to the dish.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to the most delectable mashed potatoes! Trust me, your Thanksgiving table will thank you.
How to Prepare Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes Thanksgiving
Now, let’s get those potatoes cooking! Follow these simple steps to create the ultimate make-ahead mashed potatoes that everyone will love.
Boiling the Potatoes
Start by placing your peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot. Fill it with enough cold water to cover the potatoes by about an inch. Don’t forget to add a generous pinch of salt to the water—it helps season the potatoes as they cook! Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re fork-tender. You want them soft enough to mash easily!
Mixing Ingredients
Once your potatoes are done boiling, drain them well and return them to the pot. Now, for my favorite part: adding the magic ingredients! Toss in the butter, milk, and sour cream. You can let the butter melt a bit on the hot potatoes, making it easier to mix everything together. Stir gently until everything is combined, and you can already start to smell that deliciousness!
Mashing and Seasoning
Now it’s time to mash! Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash those potatoes until they’re smooth and creamy. If you like them a bit chunkier, go for it—it’s all about your preference! As you mash, taste your creation and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you want a creamier texture, feel free to add more milk a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Once everything is mixed and seasoned to perfection, let them cool for a few minutes before transferring them.
Storing for Later
Grab a baking dish and spread the mashed potatoes evenly in it. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep everything fresh. You can pop them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them—up to a day in advance is perfect! When it’s time to serve, just reheat them in the oven, and your make-ahead mashed potatoes will be ready to steal the show!
Nutritional Information for Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes Thanksgiving
Let’s talk numbers! Each serving of these creamy make-ahead mashed potatoes is approximately 1 cup and packs a delightful punch. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sugar: 2g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But with these delicious mashed potatoes, you’ll be fueling up for all the Thanksgiving festivities!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these mashed potatoes a day in advance, freeing up your time on Thanksgiving Day!
- Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of butter, sour cream, and milk creates a deliciously smooth texture that everyone will crave.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a side dish that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.
- Perfect for Crowds: This recipe yields about 10 servings, making it ideal for family gatherings or holiday parties.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make it uniquely yours!
Trust me, once you try these make-ahead mashed potatoes, they’ll become a staple on your holiday table!
Tips for Success with Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes Thanksgiving
Want to ensure your make-ahead mashed potatoes are a hit? Here are my top tips for success! First, be sure to use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for that perfect fluffy texture. When boiling, keep an eye on the potatoes—overcooking can lead to waterlogged mash, so aim for fork-tender! As you mix in the butter, milk, and sour cream, don’t rush; this helps create that creamy consistency we all love. If you’re making them in advance, let the mashed potatoes cool completely before covering and refrigerating. Finally, when reheating, add a splash of milk to restore that dreamy texture. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ About Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes Thanksgiving
Can I make these mashed potatoes a day in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making them a day in advance to save time on Thanksgiving Day. Just follow the recipe, and once you’ve mixed and seasoned the potatoes, transfer them to a baking dish and cover tightly. Store them in the refrigerator overnight, so they’re ready to be reheated when it’s time for the feast!
How do I reheat the mashed potatoes?
Reheating is super simple! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the cover from the baking dish and give the mashed potatoes a quick stir. If they seem a bit thick, add a splash of milk to loosen them up. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, but I find the oven keeps that creamy texture just right!
Can I freeze make ahead mashed potatoes?
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you’re looking for alternatives to sour cream, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! You can use Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Cream cheese is another great option; just soften it before mixing for a rich result. And if you’re avoiding dairy, try coconut cream for a dairy-free version that still delivers creaminess!
Serving Suggestions for Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes Thanksgiving
Now that you’ve got those delicious make-ahead mashed potatoes ready, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them! These creamy potatoes pair perfectly with:
- Roast Turkey: The classic Thanksgiving centerpiece that deserves a fluffy bed of mashed potatoes!
- Gravy: Pour some savory gravy over the top for an irresistible combination.
- Honey-Glazed Ham: The sweetness of ham balances beautifully with the buttery potatoes.
- Green Bean Casserole: A crunchy, creamy side that complements the smooth mash.
- Stuffing: The flavors of stuffing and mashed potatoes together are simply heavenly!
With these pairings, your Thanksgiving spread will be a feast to remember!
Print
Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes Thanksgiving: 5 Secrets Unveiled
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy make-ahead mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 5 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil potatoes in salted water until tender.
- Drain and return potatoes to pot.
- Add butter, milk, and sour cream.
- Mash until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer to a baking dish.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Notes
- Can be made a day in advance.
- Reheat in the oven before serving.
- Add more milk if needed for consistency.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling and Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: make ahead mashed potatoes thanksgiving
