There’s something incredibly comforting about a heaping scoop of creamy mashed potatoes, especially when they’re kissed with the tangy richness of buttermilk and finished off with a satisfying crunch of crispy onions. After a long week filled with fast food runs and takeout boxes, I found solace in reimagining this classic side dish. The transformation from mundane to magnificent happens in just 35 minutes!
This Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes with Crispy Onions recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. Each fluffy bite melts in your mouth, while the crispy onion topping adds a delightful textural contrast that elevates this dish from standard to spectacular. Whether you’re serving it alongside a holiday roast or simply enjoying it at a cozy weeknight dinner, these mashed potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that deserves a spot at your table.
Get ready to impress your family—not only with taste but also with the ease of preparation. Let’s dive into the creamy, dreamy world of mashed potatoes!
Why You'll Love This Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes with Crispy Onions
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- The creamy buttermilk adds a unique flavor that elevates traditional mashed potatoes to a new level of deliciousness.
- Topped with crispy onions, this dish not only pleases the palate but also dazzles the eyes with its appealing presentation.
- It’s a versatile side that complements a wide range of main dishes, from holiday feasts to weeknight meals, ensuring it will be a hit at any gathering.
Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Ingredients
Unlock the secret to creamy, satisfying mashed potatoes!
For the Potatoes
• Starchy potatoes – These yield the fluffiest texture, so choose varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold.
For the Creaminess
• Full-fat buttermilk – This adds rich flavor and tang, making your Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes irresistible.
• Unsalted butter – Using unsalted allows you to control the seasoning, enhancing the overall flavor.
For the Topping
• Crispy onions – These create a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.
To Taste
• Salt and pepper – Essential for enhancing the flavors, adjust to your preference for the perfect bite.
How to Make Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes with Crispy Onions
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Prep the Potatoes: Begin by peeling and cutting the potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the right amount of moisture.
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Boil Until Tender: Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat and let the potatoes cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork. Drain well afterward.
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Evaporate Excess Moisture: Return the drained potatoes to low heat for about 1 minute. This step helps to evaporate any excess moisture, ensuring your mashed potatoes are fluffy and not watery.
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Mash Them Up: Mash the potatoes until they reach a fluffy consistency. Now, mix in the warm buttermilk and butter until everything is well combined, creating that creamy texture we all crave.
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Season to Perfection: Taste and season your Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes with salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, and enjoy the rich flavors!
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Top with Crunch: Serve your mashed potatoes in a warm bowl and top generously with crispy onions. This final touch adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.
Optional: Drizzle with a little extra melted butter for an indulgent finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
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Room Temperature: Serve your Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes warm and enjoy immediately. If left at room temperature, they should be consumed within 2 hours to ensure safety.
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of buttermilk to restore creaminess.
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Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with added buttermilk for the best texture.
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Reheating: To reheat, use a microwave or stovetop on low heat, stirring frequently. If the potatoes appear dry, mix in a bit of warm buttermilk or butter for a delectable revival!
Make Ahead Options
These Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes with Crispy Onions are excellent for meal prep, making them ideal for busy cooks! You can peel and cut the starchy potatoes up to 24 hours in advance; simply place them in cold water to prevent browning. Additionally, prepare the mashed potatoes ahead by following the first five steps and refrigerating them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the potatoes on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of buttermilk for creaminess. Top with crispy onions just before serving, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this beloved side dish with minimal effort!
Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions for your Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with almond milk or coconut milk for a creamy, plant-based version. This swap keeps the texture lush and rich without the dairy.
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Cheesy Twist: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese during the mashing phase. The melted cheese adds wonderful depth and flavor, making it an indulgent treat.
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Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, or rosemary for a vibrant flavor boost. These aromatic additions brighten up each bite and add an enticing freshness.
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Garlic Infusion: Roast a few cloves of garlic and mash them in with the potatoes for a deliciously savory kick. Each creamy bite will be infused with rich garlic goodness, elevating the taste.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a warm heat. This variation adds an exciting edge, perfect for those who enjoy a little spice in their comfort food.
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and unique flavor profile. This texture twist introduces an unexpected surprise that everyone will love.
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Sweet Potato Fusion: Replace half of the starchy potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter, earthier flavor. This blend not only adds color but also a different nutritional profile, balancing out the richness.
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Zesty Surprise: Mix a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard into the mash for a tangy, bright flavor. This adds a refreshing zing that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
What to Serve with Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes with Crispy Onions?
When planning a comforting meal, these creamy mashed potatoes deserve fantastic companions to create a memorable dining experience.
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Savory Roast Chicken: The succulent flavors of roast chicken pair beautifully with the creamy potatoes, creating a classic and satisfying plate.
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Garlic Butter Steak: Tender steak drizzled with garlic butter adds richness that complements the tangy buttermilk, making every bite a delight.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Their sweetness brings a lovely contrast to the savory potatoes, adding color and vibrancy to your meal.
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Grilled Asparagus: The fresh, green crunch of asparagus elevates the meal while offering a bright contrast to the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes.
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Creamy Mushroom Gravy: Pouring this rich gravy over both the steak and mashed potatoes combines flavors beautifully, making for a hearty dish.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette refreshes the palate and balances the richness of your hearty sides.
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Chardonnay or Pinot Noir: A chilled Chardonnay enhances the creamy elements, while a light Pinot Noir complements the savory depth of the meal.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: End on a sweet note with a warm, gooey lava cake that creates a delightful contrast to the savory mash and rounds out your dinner.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best texture in your Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes, always choose starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold.
- Avoid overcooking the potatoes to prevent a gummy consistency; they should be fork-tender but not mushy.
- When mashing, a potato ricer can help achieve an ultra-fluffy finish, so consider using one if you have it on hand.
- Always warm your buttermilk before mixing it in to maintain that creamy texture and enhance the flavor balance.
Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes with Crispy Onions Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! When picking potatoes, opt for starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold. These types create the fluffiest texture perfect for mashing. Look for potatoes that are firm and free of dark spots or blemishes—this ensures they are at their freshest!
What’s the best way to store leftover Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes?
Very easy! Store your leftover Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up. When you’re ready to reheat, I recommend adding a splash of buttermilk to restore that creamy texture!
Can I freeze Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes?
Yes, you can! For freezing, place the mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply transfer them to the fridge the night before you plan to use them. When ready to reheat, warm gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of warmed buttermilk to bring back that creamy goodness.
What should I do if my mashed potatoes turn out gummy?
No worries! If this happens, it usually indicates over-mixing or using the wrong type of potatoes. To help salvage them, try adding a bit more buttermilk or cream and gently fold with a spatula until you achieve a smoother, fluffier texture. Remember, less is more when it comes to mashing!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you or your guests have dairy allergies, you can substitute the buttermilk and butter with dairy-free alternatives like unsweetened almond milk and coconut oil. Always check the crispy onion packaging, as some brands may contain gluten or other allergens, so it’s best to opt for certified gluten-free brands if needed.
How long can I keep these mashed potatoes at room temperature?
To ensure food safety, it’s best to enjoy your Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes while they’re warm. If they sit at room temperature, aim to consume them within 2 hours. After that, they should be refrigerated to prevent spoilage.
Equipment
- large pot
- Potato masher
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 4 medium starchy potatoes (like Russet or Yukon Gold)
For the Creaminess
- 1 cup full-fat buttermilk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Topping
- 1 cup crispy onions
To Taste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
How to Make Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
- Begin by peeling and cutting the potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water.
- Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat and let the potatoes cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well afterward.
- Return the drained potatoes to low heat for about 1 minute to evaporate excess moisture.
- Mash the potatoes until fluffy, then mix in the warm buttermilk and butter until combined.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Serve in a warm bowl and top generously with crispy onions.
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