Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes, A Thanksgiving Side Dish to Savor
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and indulging in delicious, comforting dishes that warm both the heart and soul. One of the quintessential sides that graces every Thanksgiving table is mashed potatoes. This year, why not elevate this classic dish with a rich and flavorful twist? Introducing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes, a side dish that combines the smooth, buttery goodness of traditional mashed potatoes with the savory notes of roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is sure to become a new holiday favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (more if needed)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Start by peeling and cubing four large Russet potatoes.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water for seasoning.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
Roast the Garlic:
- While your potatoes are boiling, take the opportunity to prepare the garlic.
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Cook the garlic until it becomes fragrant and just begins to turn golden, which should take about 2 minutes.
- Once done, remove the garlic from the heat and set it aside.
Mash the Potatoes:
- Once the potatoes are cooked through, drain them well and return them to the pot.
- Add the roasted garlic, softened butter, and heavy cream to the pot.
- Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy.
- **If you prefer a softer consistency, feel free to add a bit more heavy cream until the texture is just right.**
Add the Parmesan:
- Now it’s time to add the star ingredient: Parmesan cheese.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan until it’s fully melted and evenly distributed throughout the potatoes.
- Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and, if you’d like, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color.
- Serve immediately while they’re warm and delicious.
Serving Size:
**This recipe yields enough to serve 6-8 people, making it an ideal side dish for your Thanksgiving feast.**
These Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re an experience. The rich flavor of roasted garlic melds beautifully with the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes, while the Parmesan adds a delightful umami note that will leave your guests coming back for seconds.
Pair these potatoes with your Thanksgiving turkey, drizzle them with gravy, or enjoy them as they are—luxuriously creamy and bursting with flavor. This dish is bound to become a staple at your holiday dinners, cherished by family and friends alike.
Make this Thanksgiving unforgettable with a side dish that’s sure to impress. Your loved ones will be thankful for every delicious bite!
What Are Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes Without the Gravy?
Don’t you worry, we’ve got you covered.
You can make the gravy from the turkey juices, turning those delicious drippings into a savory, velvety sauce that perfectly complements your creamy mashed potatoes. This homemade turkey gravy captures all the rich flavors of your roasted bird, creating a mouthwatering accompaniment that ties together your entire Thanksgiving meal. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a gravy that’s so good, it might just steal the spotlight from the turkey itself!
Savory Turkey Gravy Recipe
Savory Turkey Gravy Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup turkey drippings (juices from the roasted turkey)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups turkey or chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for added flavor
Instructions:
Collect the Turkey Drippings:
- After roasting your turkey, carefully pour the drippings from the roasting pan into a measuring cup. Allow the drippings to sit for a few minutes so the fat separates and rises to the top. Skim off the fat, leaving about 1/4 cup of the drippings.
Make a Roux: (pronounced “roo”) is a simple but essential cooking technique used to thicken sauces,
- Place a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the 1/4 cup of turkey drippings.
- Once the drippings are hot, slowly whisk in the flour to form a roux.
- Continue whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly golden, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the Broth:
- Gradually whisk in the turkey or chicken broth. Continue to whisk constantly to avoid lumps, bringing the mixture to a simmer. The gravy will begin to thicken as it heats.
Enhance the Flavor:
- If desired, add a splash of white wine or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the gravy for added depth of flavor.
- Continue to simmer the gravy for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Season and Serve:
- Taste the gravy and season with salt and pepper as needed. If the gravy is too thick, you can thin it with a little more broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
Serve:
- Pour the finished gravy into a serving dish or gravy boat and serve hot alongside your Thanksgiving turkey, mashed potatoes, and all your favorite holiday sides.
Yield:
- Servings: This recipe makes about 2 cups of gravy, which is typically enough to serve 6-8 people.
This Savory Turkey Gravy is the perfect complement to your Thanksgiving meal. Made from the flavorful drippings of your roasted turkey, it captures the essence of the bird and enhances every bite. Whether you’re drizzling it over mashed potatoes, stuffing, or turkey slices, this gravy adds the finishing touch that brings all the Thanksgiving flavors together.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich, homemade gravy that will impress your guests and elevate your holiday feast.
