Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when family and friends gather around the table, and the aroma of delicious food fills the air. For me, Thanksgiving isn’t just about the turkey; it’s all about the side dishes, especially creamy mashed potatoes. This classic dish is truly a staple in any Thanksgiving meal, and trust me, when you take that first spoonful of buttery, fluffy goodness, you’ll understand why it’s loved by everyone. I can’t imagine a holiday table without it! So, let’s dive into making these Thanksgiving potatoes side dishes that will have your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds!).
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Potatoes Side Dishes
- 5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup milk (adjust for desired creaminess)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Potatoes Side Dishes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get those creamy mashed potatoes ready! First things first, peel and dice your Yukon Gold potatoes. These beauties are known for their buttery flavor, making them perfect for our Thanksgiving potatoes side dishes. Aim for uniform chunks, about 1-2 inches, so they cook evenly.
Next, place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold, salted water. This way, they start cooking evenly from the get-go! Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. You want them soft enough to mash easily, but not falling apart.
Once tender, drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Now, here comes the fun part! Add in the butter, milk, and sour cream. Using a potato masher, mash everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. I like to take my time here; the more you mash, the creamier they become!
Finally, stir in the chives, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give them one last good mix and voilà! You’ve got yourself a heavenly side dish that’s ready to impress. Serve warm and watch them disappear!
Tips for Success
To make sure your creamy mashed potatoes are a hit, here are a few tips to keep in mind! First, be gentle when mashing; overmixing can lead to a gluey texture, and we want smooth, fluffy potatoes! If you want an even creamier consistency, feel free to add a splash more milk or a bit of extra butter. Also, don’t skimp on the seasoning—salt and pepper really bring out the flavors, so taste as you go! And remember, these mashed potatoes are best served fresh, but if you need to make them ahead, keep them warm in a slow cooker for that perfect Thanksgiving side dish moment!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Let’s talk about ingredients! For the potatoes, I absolutely love using Yukon Gold because they’re creamy and rich. If you can’t find them, Russet potatoes can work too, but they’ll give you a slightly different texture. For the milk, whole milk is great, but you can swap it with heavy cream for a luxurious touch or even almond milk for a dairy-free option. If you’re not a fan of chives, feel free to experiment with green onions or even garlic powder for a different flavor twist. The key is to make it your own!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a little note: the nutritional information provided for these Thanksgiving potatoes side dishes is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. For the most accurate results, be sure to check your labels and adjust according to your preferences. Enjoy those creamy mashed potatoes without worry!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- So easy to make—perfect for even the busiest Thanksgiving prep!
- Incredibly creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
- A delightful buttery flavor thanks to Yukon Gold potatoes.
- Perfectly customizable with herbs and seasonings.
- A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with turkey and all your favorite dishes.
- Great for gatherings—these potatoes are always the first to disappear!
- Leftovers (if there are any) make the best comfort food!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving these creamy mashed potatoes, the possibilities are endless! They’re the perfect companion to your Thanksgiving turkey, soaking up all that delicious gravy. I also love pairing them with roasted Brussels sprouts or a green bean casserole for a beautiful color contrast on the plate. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a side of cranberry sauce for that sweet and tangy burst. And don’t forget about stuffing—what a combo! Trust me, these mashed potatoes will elevate any dish you serve alongside them, making your Thanksgiving feast truly unforgettable!
FAQ Section
Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance. Just make sure to keep them covered in the fridge and reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if they seem a little thick.
What type of potatoes are best for Thanksgiving potatoes side dishes?
I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and rich flavor. They really make a difference! However, Russet potatoes can also work if you prefer a fluffier consistency.
How do I keep my mashed potatoes warm for serving?
A great trick is to keep your mashed potatoes in a slow cooker on the warm setting. This way, they’re ready to serve whenever you are, and they’ll stay perfectly creamy!
Can I add other flavors to my mashed potatoes?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative! You can mix in roasted garlic, cheese, or even herbs like rosemary or thyme for added depth. It’s all about making these Thanksgiving potatoes side dishes your own!
Why did my mashed potatoes turn out gluey?
Oh no! That can happen if you overmix them. Make sure to mash just until smooth and avoid using a food processor. Gentle is the way to go for the fluffiest texture!
Thanksgiving Potatoes Side Dishes: 7 Creamy Delights to Savor
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious side dish of creamy mashed potatoes perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 5 pounds potatoes
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chives, chopped
Instructions
- Peel and dice the potatoes.
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add butter, milk, and sour cream to the potatoes.
- Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in chives, salt, and pepper.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery flavor.
- Adjust milk for desired creaminess.
- Top with extra chives for garnish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling and mashing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: thanksgiving potatoes side dishes
