Prepare to transform your ordinary mashed potatoes into a culinary masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds! These browned butter mashed potatoes with thyme aren't just a side dish – they're a creamy, aromatic experience that elevates comfort food to gourmet heights. Imagine the rich, nutty flavor of perfectly browned butter mingling with tender potatoes and fragrant fresh thyme, creating a dish that's both sophisticated and irresistibly comforting.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Peel and cube the potatoes into evenly sized pieces, about 1 to 2 inches. This will ensure they cook evenly.
- Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water to season the potatoes as they cook.
- Bring the pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the browned butter. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Continue cooking the butter, stirring frequently, until it foams and turns a golden brown color, about 5-7 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning, as the butter can quickly go from browned to burnt.
- Once the butter is browned and has a nutty aroma, remove it from the heat and set aside. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, as they add flavor to the potatoes.
- When the potatoes are done cooking, drain them in a colander and return them to the pot. Allow them to sit for a minute to let off excess steam.
- Add the browned butter, milk, and chopped fresh thyme to the drained potatoes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash the potatoes until they reach your desired level of creaminess. Be careful not to over-mash, as this can make the potatoes gluey.
- Once the potatoes are mashed, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or thyme based on your preference.
- Transfer the browned butter mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Garnish with additional fresh thyme if desired, and serve warm.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the creamiest texture.
- Brown Butter Like a Pro: Watch your butter carefully when browning. The difference between perfectly browned and burnt is just seconds! Look for a golden brown color and a nutty aroma.
- Prevent Gluey Potatoes: Don't over-mash! Mix just until combined to maintain a fluffy texture.
- Temperature Matters: Use warm milk and browned butter to keep your mashed potatoes at the perfect serving temperature.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Use fresh thyme if possible – the flavor is much more vibrant than dried herbs.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can brown the butter in advance and reheat it gently when ready to mix with the potatoes.
- Seasoning Secret: Add salt in layers – some in the cooking water, some in the butter, and a final taste test at the end for perfectly seasoned potatoes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 273kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
