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Perfect Brown Butter Sage Mashed Potatoes: Easy Holiday Side

brown butter sage mashed potatoes - featured image

These brown butter sage mashed potatoes are rich, creamy, and packed with nutty, herbaceous flavor. A simple yet elegant side dish perfect for holidays or weeknight comfort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
  • 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter
  • 1215 fresh sage leaves
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for cooking water)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks, about 1.5 inches each. Rinse under cold water to remove excess starch.
  2. Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add a generous tablespoon of kosher salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. While the potatoes cook, warm the milk in a small saucepan or microwave until warm to the touch.
  4. In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves in a single layer. Swirl the pan gently. After 2-3 minutes, the butter will foam and turn golden. When brown specks form and the butter smells nutty, remove from heat immediately.
  5. Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them steam dry for 1 minute.
  6. Return the drained potatoes to the pot or transfer to a large bowl. Mash with a potato masher or ricer. Pour in the warm milk and mash again until combined.
  7. Pour the browned butter and crispy sage leaves over the mashed potatoes. Fold gently until fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with extra crispy sage leaves if desired.

Notes

For best results, use a light-colored pan to monitor butter browning. Warm the milk before adding to prevent gummy potatoes. Don’t overwork the potatoes to avoid a gluey texture. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown butter sage mashed potatoes, holiday side dish, creamy mashed potatoes, easy mashed potatoes, Thanksgiving side