Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Recipe are the ultimate comfort food. This dish combines fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes with a rich, savory gravy that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or planning a quick weeknight dinner, homemade creamy mashed potatoes with gravy are always a hit. In fact, this classic dish brings comfort to any table and satisfies everyone’s craving for something warm and savory. Not only is it simple to make, but it also pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses.
Let’s dive into how to make the perfect Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Recipe to impress your guests and delight your taste buds.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
- Easy Preparation: Ready in about 30 minutes.
- Comfort Food Classic: A timeless dish for any occasion.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: Fluffy potatoes with decadent, smooth gravy.
For tips on choosing the best potatoes for mashing, check out this guide on Best Potatoes for Mashed Potatoes. Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes are the top choices for that perfect consistency.
Ingredients for the Perfect Homemade Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Recipe
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 teaspoons salt, divided
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Gravy
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or beef stock
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
If you’re new to making homemade gravy, this guide on How to Make Perfect Gravy will walk you through the basics of making a roux and avoiding lumps.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Recipe
1. Boil the Potatoes
- Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and add enough water to cover them.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt and bring the water to a boil.
- Lower the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are soft enough to be pierced easily with a fork.
- Drain and return the potatoes to the pot.
2. Prepare the Garlic-Infused Butter
- Meanwhile, as the potatoes are boiling, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Next, add the minced garlic and sauté until it turns golden and fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Slowly pour in the whole milk and heat it until small bubbles begin to form around the edges. Keep warm.
3. Mash the Potatoes
- Use a potato masher or ricer to mash the drained potatoes.
- Slowly incorporate the garlic-infused butter and milk mixture, stirring continuously, until the potatoes achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Add the remaining salt and pepper, then stir thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
How to Make the Best Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Recipe
1. Create a Roux
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture becomes a light golden brown.
2. Add the Stock
- Gradually whisk in the chicken or beef stock to prevent lumps.
- Continue whisking until the gravy thickens and develops a smooth, velvety texture.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Serve It Up
- Pour the rich, hot gravy over your fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Recipe
1. Choose the Right Potatoes
Use Russet potatoes for a fluffy texture or Yukon Golds for a buttery flavor.
2. Don’t Overmix the Potatoes
Overmixing can make the potatoes gummy. Stick to a potato masher or ricer for the best results.
3. Perfect Your Roux
Cooking the butter and flour for a few minutes develops a deeper flavor and helps eliminate the raw taste.
4. Season in Layers
Season with salt at each stage — boiling the potatoes, mashing them, and preparing the gravy — to ensure every bite is perfectly flavorful.
Delicious Variations to Try for Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Recipe
If you’re looking to enhance your creamy Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Recipe, these variations will add exciting flavors and new dimensions to this classic comfort food. Whether you crave a garlicky richness, a tangy twist, or indulgent loaded toppings, there are countless ways to make your homemade mashed potatoes and gravy even more delightful. Each variation offers something special while preserving the essence of this comforting dish—the perfect harmony of fluffy mashed potatoes and silky-smooth gravy.
1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Recipe
Adding roasted garlic to your creamy mashed potatoes with gravy is a simple yet effective way to elevate the dish with rich, savory depth. The sweet, mellow flavor of roasted garlic pairs perfectly with the buttery texture of the potatoes and the richness of the gravy.
How to Make It:
- Roast a whole head of garlic by slicing off the top, drizzling it with olive oil, and baking at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes, until it turns golden and tender.
- Squeeze the softened garlic cloves into the mashed potatoes and mix thoroughly.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and added flavor.
- Serve with a generous pour of savory gravy to create the ultimate garlic-infused comfort dish.
This variation is perfect if you love the combination of garlic and buttery mashed potatoes paired with smooth, rich gravy.
2. Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
For a tangy twist, try replacing regular milk with buttermilk in your creamy Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Recipe. The tanginess of buttermilk balances the richness of the potatoes and enhances the flavor of the gravy.
How to Make It:
- Replace whole milk with the same amount of buttermilk.
- Add a pat of butter for extra creaminess.
- Mash the potatoes until they are smooth, light, and fluffy.
- Top with herb-infused gravy made with thyme or rosemary for an aromatic finish.
This variation creates a light, tangy flavor that complements the savory notes of the gravy, making it a great option for those who want something different yet familiar.
3. Loaded Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Take your creamy mashed potatoes with gravy to the next level by turning them into a fully loaded masterpiece. Adding toppings like cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chives transforms this classic side into a meal on its own.
How to Make It:
- After mashing the potatoes, fold in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Sprinkle crispy bacon bits and freshly chopped chives on top.
- Serve with a generous ladle of silky-smooth gravy to bring all the flavors together.
The combination of creamy potatoes, savory toppings, and rich gravy creates a dish that’s decadent and satisfying. This variation is ideal for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to pure comfort food bliss.
4. Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
For a fresh and fragrant twist on your creamy mashed potatoes with gravy, infuse the dish with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage. The herbs add an aromatic complexity that balances the richness of the gravy and the creaminess of the potatoes.
How to Make It:
- Add finely chopped rosemary, thyme, or sage to the butter while it melts for the potatoes.
- Stir the herb-infused butter into the mashed potatoes for a subtle, savory flavor.
- For the gravy, add the same herbs while it simmers to create a cohesive flavor profile.
The result is a sophisticated version of mashed potatoes with herb-infused gravy that’s perfect for holiday dinners or when you want to add a gourmet touch to your meal.
5. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
If you’re a cheese lover, this creamy mashed potatoes with gravy variation will become your new favorite. Melted cheese adds an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.
How to Make It:
- Add shredded cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese to the mashed potatoes.
- Stir until the cheese is melted and the potatoes are gooey and creamy.
- Pour a generous amount of savory gravy over the cheesy potatoes for a decadent finish.
This variation is perfect for when you want an indulgent side dish that’s packed with flavor and texture.
6. Bacon and Scallion Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Add a smoky crunch and a burst of freshness to your creamy mashed potatoes with gravy by incorporating bacon and scallions.
How to Make It:
- Fry a few slices of bacon until crispy, then chop them into bits.
- Chop fresh scallions (green onions) and mix them into the mashed potatoes along with the bacon bits.
- Top with a ladle of rich, savory gravy to complete the dish.
The smoky bacon and zesty scallions add layers of flavor and texture, making your Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Recipe an unforgettable side dish.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your mashed potatoes and gravy with these dishes for a complete meal:
- Main Proteins: Roast turkey, fried chicken, or meatloaf.
- Vegetable Sides: Green beans almondine, roasted Brussels sprouts, or glazed carrots.
- Bread Options: Garlic bread, buttermilk biscuits, or dinner rolls.
FAQs About Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
If you want to perfect your creamy mashed potatoes with gravy or are curious about making them ahead, freezing, or mashing techniques, these frequently asked questions have you covered. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the best homemade mashed potatoes and gravy every time.
1. Can I Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Gravy Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your fluffy mashed potatoes with gravy in advance to save time. Here’s how:
- Mashed Potatoes:
- Store the creamy mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- When ready to serve, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil, or warm them on the stovetop with a splash of milk to maintain the creamy texture.
- Gravy:
- Store the homemade gravy separately in a sealed container.
- Reheat the gravy gently on the stovetop, whisking occasionally to keep it smooth.
This method ensures your buttery mashed potatoes with gravy taste just as fresh as the day you made them.
2. How Do You Thicken Savory Gravy for Mashed Potatoes?
To achieve the perfect consistency for your rich, savory gravy, there are a few easy techniques:
- Flour-Butter Roux:
- Whisk together equal parts of flour and butter, and cook until golden. Gradually add this mixture to the gravy while whisking constantly until it thickens.
- Cornstarch Slurry:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Add the slurry to your gravy and stir over medium heat until it reaches the desired consistency.
Using either method will give you a silky-smooth gravy that pairs perfectly with your creamy mashed potatoes.
3. Can You Freeze Mashed Potatoes and Gravy Recipe?
Yes, you can! Freezing mashed potatoes and gravy is a great way to make meal prep easier. Here’s how to do it:
- For the Mashed Potatoes:
- Let the fluffy mashed potatoes cool completely.
- Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat with a bit of butter or milk to restore the creaminess.
- For the Gravy:
- Let the homemade gravy cool fully.
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
- Reheat on the stovetop, whisking to bring back the smooth consistency.
By freezing your creamy mashed potatoes with gravy, you can always have a delicious side dish ready to go!
4. What’s the Best Tool for Mashing Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
Achieving perfectly smooth and fluffy mashed potatoes depends on using the right tools. Here are the best options:
- Potato Masher:
- Ideal for those who prefer slightly textured mashed potatoes. It’s simple, quick, and effective.
- Potato Ricer:
- Perfect for achieving ultra-smooth and creamy mashed potatoes. A ricer prevents lumps and creates a consistent texture.
- Hand Mixer:
- Useful if you want to make your buttery mashed potatoes extra fluffy. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the potatoes gluey.
- Avoid Blenders and Food Processors:
- Using these tools can result in gummy and sticky mashed potatoes due to overworking the starches.
For the best results, stick to a potato masher or potato ricer to ensure your homemade mashed potatoes with gravy are consistently perfect.
5. How Can I Add More Flavor to My Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Gravy?
To take your mashed potatoes with savory gravy to the next level, consider these flavor-boosting tips:
- Infused Butter:
- Sauté garlic, thyme, or rosemary in butter before adding it to the potatoes.
- Cheese:
- Mix in grated cheddar, parmesan, or cream cheese for extra richness.
- Herbs and Spices:
- Add fresh chives, parsley, or a dash of nutmeg for depth of flavor.
- Buttermilk or Cream:
- For a tangy twist, replace milk with buttermilk or heavy cream.
Adding these additions enhances your homemade creamy mashed potatoes, ensuring a flavorful, rich, and unforgettable dish.
6. How Do You Keep Mashed Potatoes with Gravy Warm Before Serving?
To keep your mashed potatoes and gravy warm without drying out, try these methods:
- Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the creamy mashed potatoes to a slow cooker set on the “warm” setting. Stir occasionally and add a bit of butter to keep them moist.
- Double Boiler:
- Place the mashed potatoes in a bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.
- For Gravy:
- Keep the savory gravy warm on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
These methods will ensure your fluffy mashed potatoes and silky gravy stay warm and ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
With this mashed potatoes and gravy recipe, you can create a side dish that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether it’s for a holiday dinner or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it out, and enjoy every comforting bite!