Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy Recipe

Fluffy Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy Recipe

Whipping up some creamy mashed potatoes with savory gravy can turn an ordinary meal into a comforting feast.

Soft, fluffy potatoes blended with rich butter create a dreamy side dish everyone adores.

Smooth textures and deep flavors mingle beautifully on your plate.

Grandma’s classic recipe brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table.

Each bite promises a delightful combination of creamy potatoes and robust gravy that melts in your mouth.

Regional variations add interesting twists to this timeless comfort food.

Let’s uncover the secrets to making these irresistible mashed potatoes that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

What Makes Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy So Comforting

  • Comfort Food Champion: Dive into a classic dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, perfect for satisfying deep cravings with its rich, creamy texture.
  • Skill-Friendly Cooking: Beginner cooks can nail this recipe with simple techniques, making it an excellent starting point for anyone learning to create delicious home-cooked meals.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Potential: This recipe works magic for family dinners, holiday gatherings, and potlucks, delivering a universally loved side dish that brings people together.
  • Quick Weeknight Wonder: Prepare this hearty side in under an hour, making it an ideal solution for busy families wanting a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

Main Ingredients:
  • Potatoes: Starchy vegetables that create the base of this creamy side dish.
  • Butter: Provides rich flavor and smooth texture to the mashed potatoes and gravy.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious creaminess and richness to the potato mixture.
Gravy Components:
  • Flour: Creates a thickening base for the smooth gravy.
  • Broth: Provides depth of flavor and liquid for the gravy.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds a savory umami element to enhance the gravy's taste.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Salt, Pepper, Onion Powder: Bring out the natural flavors of the potatoes and gravy, adding depth and complexity to the dish.

How to Whip Up Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Gravy

Step 1: Wash and Prep Potatoes

Clean potatoes thoroughly under running water. Peel the skin if desired or leave skin on for extra nutrition.

Cut potatoes into even chunks to ensure uniform cooking.

Step 2: Boil Potatoes to Perfection

Place potato chunks in a large pot with cold salted water.

Bring water to a rolling boil over high heat. Cook potatoes until fork-tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.

Test doneness by easily piercing potatoes with a fork.

Step 3: Drain and Steam Dry

Carefully drain potatoes in a colander.

Return potatoes to the warm pot and let them steam dry for a few minutes. This helps remove excess moisture and creates fluffier mashed potatoes.

Step 4: Create Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Mash potatoes using a potato masher or ricer. Add ingredients:
  • Unsalted butter
  • Heavy cream
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Blend ingredients until smooth and creamy.

Avoid overmixing to prevent gluey texture.

Step 5: Prepare Savory Gravy Base

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Create a roux by:
  • Stirring in all-purpose flour
  • Cooking mixture for 1-2 minutes
  • Constantly stirring to prevent burning

Step 6: Develop Gravy Flavor

Gradually whisk in:
  • Beef or chicken broth
  • Soy sauce
  • Onion powder

Simmer gravy for 5-7 minutes until it thickens and reaches desired consistency.

Step 7: Season and Finish Gravy

Taste gravy and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.

Stir to combine flavors.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer creamy mashed potatoes to a serving dish.

Pour warm gravy over potatoes. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired.

Serve immediately while hot.

Smooth Mashed Potato Tips You’ll Want to Know

  • Rinse potatoes thoroughly before boiling to remove excess starch and ensure a smoother, fluffier texture.
  • Use warm cream and butter when mixing into potatoes for an extra silky, luxurious consistency.
  • Select starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the creamiest mashed potatoes with perfect texture.
  • Avoid overmixing potatoes to prevent a gluey, dense result; gently fold ingredients for light, airy mashed potatoes.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream and use olive oil instead of butter.

Twist Up Your Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

  • Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roast whole garlic bulbs until golden, then blend soft cloves into potatoes for a rich, intense flavor profile.
  • Herb-Infused Variation: Chop fresh rosemary, thyme, and chives, mixing them directly into the creamy potatoes for a garden-fresh taste.
  • Cheese Lover's Edition: Fold in shredded sharp cheddar or parmesan cheese during mashing to create a tangy, melted cheese experience.
  • Bacon and Chive Topped Potatoes: Crisp bacon pieces and chopped green onions sprinkled on top add crunch and smoky depth to the classic recipe.

Perfect Pairings with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

  • Pair with Roasted Protein: Complement the creamy potatoes with tender roasted chicken, juicy beef tenderloin, or perfectly grilled pork chops for a hearty and satisfying meal.
  • Elevate with Red Wine: Choose a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Merlot to balance the richness of the mashed potatoes and gravy, enhancing the overall dining experience.
  • Match with Crisp Vegetable Side: Add roasted Brussels sprouts, honey-glazed carrots, or steamed green beans to provide a fresh, crunchy contrast to the smooth, creamy potatoes.
  • Serve with Herbal Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped chives, parsley, or thyme on top to add a bright, aromatic layer that cuts through the heaviness of the dish and adds visual appeal.

How to Store Creamy Mashed Potatoes for Later

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover mashed potatoes and gravy separately in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
  • Freeze: Transfer cooled mashed potatoes to freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months. Gravy can be frozen separately for 4-6 weeks.
  • Reheat Potatoes: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Warm in microwave, stirring every 30 seconds, or reheat in oven at 350°F, adding a splash of cream to restore moisture.
  • Reheat Gravy: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, whisking occasionally. Add a little broth if too thick. Stir until heated through and smooth.

FAQs About Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

  • How do I prevent lumpy mashed potatoes?

Use a potato masher or ricer, and make sure potatoes are fully cooked and drained well. Mash while potatoes are still hot and add warm cream and butter gradually for smooth consistency.

  • Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, prepare them up to 2 days in advance. Store in a covered dish in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F, adding extra cream or milk to restore moisture.

  • What type of potatoes work best for mashing?

Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal. They break down easily and create a fluffy, creamy texture when mashed.

  • How can I fix gravy if it's too thick or thin?

If too thick, whisk in more broth.

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Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy Recipe

Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy Recipe


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4.8 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Silky “Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Savory Gravy” bring comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen to your dinner table. Smooth potato clouds meet rich, peppered gravy for a classic side dish that promises pure culinary satisfaction.


Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes:

  • 4 large potatoes (Yukon gold or russet)

Dairy:

  • 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream

Seasoning and Gravy Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (30 grams) flour
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) butter
  • 2 cups (480 milliliters) beef or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

  1. Peel and quarter potatoes, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
  2. Place potatoes in a large pot with cold salted water, ensuring water covers potatoes by 1 inch.
  3. Bring water to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and cook for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
  4. Drain potatoes completely in a colander, allowing excess moisture to evaporate.
  5. Return potatoes to the warm pot and mash using a potato masher or ricer for smooth texture.
  6. Incorporate softened butter and warm heavy cream into the potatoes, stirring gently until creamy and light.
  7. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, mixing thoroughly.
  8. For the gravy, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat until foamy and golden.
  9. Sprinkle flour into melted butter, whisking continuously to create a smooth roux for 2 minutes.
  10. Gradually pour broth into the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  11. Add soy sauce and onion powder, continuing to stir until gravy thickens and reaches a silky consistency.
  12. Simmer gravy for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
  13. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  14. Transfer creamy mashed potatoes to a serving dish and ladle hot gravy over the top.

Notes

  • Boil potatoes with skin on for extra nutrients and easier peeling after cooking.
  • Use room temperature butter and cream to ensure smoother, lump-free mashed potatoes.
  • Opt for starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the creamiest texture.
  • Substitute dairy milk or plant-based alternatives for a lighter or vegan version of the dish.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Side Dish
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

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