35+ Recipes: What To Eat With Mashed Potatoes - Foodess (2024)

If you’re obsessed with fluffy mash, dive into this collection of the top, most popular recipes for what to eat with mashed potatoes and buckle up for comfort food bliss!

35+ Recipes: What To Eat With Mashed Potatoes - Foodess (1)

Table of Contents hide

1The Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe

2What Goes with Mashed Potatoes

3Meaty Main Dish Ideas

4Seafood to Pair with Mashed Potatoes

5Classic Comfort Food That Goes With Mashed Potatoes

6Vegetables and Vegetarian Mains

7Sauces and Delicious Sides

8Leftover Mashed Potato Recipe Ideas

9How Long Are Leftover Mashed Potatoes Good For?

10How To Reheat Mashed Potatoes

11Mashed Potato FAQs

12Conclusion

1335+ Recipes: What to Eat With Mashed Potatoes

The Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe

I’ve used my food science background and all my cooking knowledge to create the best mashed potatoes recipe ever. This mashed potatoes recipe is super creamy, fluffy, and perfect not just for Thanksgiving, but for any day of the year. Plus, I’ve also spilled the beans on how to make them light and creamy, not gooey like glue. Give it a shot – you won’t be disappointed!

35+ Recipes: What To Eat With Mashed Potatoes - Foodess (2)

What Goes with Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a stand-out delicious side dish and a shining star for major holiday feasts. But if you love them as much as I do, you’re probably looking beyond Thanksgiving for dinner ideas to serve with mashed potatoes. Luckily, they complement all manners of hearty proteins from roasted chicken, grilled steak, and lamb chops to pan-seared fish. There are even a host of cozy vegetarian mains that provide a creamy counterpoint to fluffy taters.

If you’ve tried my crazy-good creamy Mashed Potatoes recipe, you’re almost definitely looking for ways to eat them every day.

There are so many cozy options from simple weeknight dinners to fancy showstoppers to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal with fluffy mashed russets as your anchor.

(PS. The fact that you’re here reading this means you are my people).

35+ Recipes: What To Eat With Mashed Potatoes - Foodess (3)

Meaty Main Dish Ideas

  1. Easy Roast Turkey: A juicy, well-seasoned roast turkey is an age-old pairing with mashed potatoes. There’s a reason mashed potatoes and Thanksgiving dinner are a match made in heaven.
  2. Steak with Green Sauce: Whether it’s a filet mignon or a rib-eye, a good steak goes hand in hand with the creaminess of mashed potatoes. The bright aji verde sauce cuts through the richness.
  3. Pork Chops: I love these Honey-Mustard Baked Pork Chops or these Onion and Mushroom Smothered Pork Chops with a big mound of mashed potatoes.
  4. Veal Scallopini: This scrumptious veal cutlet recipe has a delicious lemon caper butter sauce that would be delicious with mashed potatoes.
  5. A Succulent Rib Roast: This roast beef recipe is the ultimate holiday indulgence.
  6. Creamy Tuscan Chicken: Tender chicken in the tastiest Italian cream sauce. You’ll swoon for this with a plate of mashed potatoes.
  7. Ham: Ham and potatoes are a natural pairing. Short on time? Try my Instant Pot Ham Recipe for juicy, fall-apart ham in a fraction of the time.
  8. Ribs: I love the pairing of succulent ribs with mashed potatoes. A few of my go-to recipes include Honey Garlic Spare Ribs (Dry Garlic Ribs), Grilled Korean Short Ribs, Sticky Spicy Ribs and Baked Cranberry-Chipotle Barbecue Ribs.
  9. Chicken Thighs (boneless or bone in): Honey Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs or Garlic Ginger Chicken are delicious options.

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Seafood to Pair with Mashed Potatoes

  1. Baked Salmon with Mayo: For a healthier pairing, baked salmon with an easy sauce brings a touch of lightness and a burst of omega-3 fatty acids.
  2. Panko-Crusted Cod: This cod recipe, coated with panko breadcrumbs, features an incredibly flavorful 3-ingredient sauce that locks in moisture for consistently tender and flaky fish. The mixture of breadcrumbs and butter creates a golden, crunchy crust, making this a fantastic 20-minute dish.
  3. Cajun Honey Butter Salmon: This salmon dish pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, providing a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Simply serve it over a bed of mashed potatoes and garnish with freshly chopped chives, thyme, or oregano.

35+ Recipes: What To Eat With Mashed Potatoes - Foodess (5)

Classic Comfort Food That Goes With Mashed Potatoes

  1. The Ultimate Meatloaf Recipe: Meatloaf’s savory flavors are a natural fit for mashed potatoes and this recipe is the one that’ll turn you into a meatloaf lover.
  2. Meatloaf with Brown Gravy: Smother those ‘taters in rich homemade gravy if you know what’s good.
  3. Crispy Fried Chicken: If you’re looking for a classic Southern meal, pair your mash with perfectly seasoned and crisped fried chicken.
  4. BBQ Oven Chicken Legs: The ultimate comforting dinner if you ask me.

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Vegetables and Vegetarian Mains

  1. Crisp Green Beans or Asparagus: With its distinct flavor, asparagus brings a note of elegance to your plate. Here’s How to Cook Perfect Pan-Fried Asparagus on the Stove
  2. Air Fryer Eggplant: The crispy-meets-creamy vibe will have you inhaling the whole basket.
  3. Comforting Creamy French Lentils: They’re made for a mound of mashed potatoes. The ultimate vegetarian comfort food.

35+ Recipes: What To Eat With Mashed Potatoes - Foodess (7)

Sauces and Delicious Sides

  1. Brown Gravy: You can’t talk about what to eat with mashed potatoes without mentioning gravy. A well-made brown gravy can elevate the humble spud to something sublime.
  2. Turkey Giblet Gravy (Without Drippings!): A super-easy make-ahead turkey gravy.
  3. Garlic-Herb Butter: For those who prefer a lighter option, melted herb butter (like the one I use on my viral Butter Naan recipe) can make your mashed potatoes simply irresistible.
  4. Apple Turkey Stuffing: It’s technically “unstuffing” because it doesn’t go inside the bird. So you can enjoy it with simple baked chicken thighs as much as big turkey roasts.

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Leftover Mashed Potato Recipe Ideas

Got leftovers to use up? Here’s how to put your pillowy russet potatoes to delicious use the next day.

  • Potato and Cod Cakes:Merge your leftover mash with chosen fish (such as cod, salmon, or tuna), toss in some fresh herbs, and use an egg for binding. Shape into patties and pan fry until they get a crispy exterior and a heated middle.
  • Turkey Stew with Mashed Potato Dumplings:ransform your remaining turkey and mashed potatoes into a cozy stew. Introduce scoops of mashed potatoes to the bubbling stew, letting them double as soft, fluffy dumplings.
  • Vegetarian Cottage Pie:For a vegetarian twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, swap the meat filling with a robust combination of lentils and assorted veggies. Crown with a generous spread of your remaining mashed potatoes and bake until it sports a golden hue.
  • Potato Samosas,Aloo NaanorSamosa Pie: Make one of these super-tastyIndian recipes. Dive into these irresistible Indian recipes face first. Bypass the potato boiling step and use your pre-made mash.
  • Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole: It’s got a stuffing crust and a fluffy mashed potato topping. YUM.
  • Malai Kofta: This Indian curry is crazy delicious. It’s got dumplings made of mashed potato and paneer in a creamy spiced tomato gravy.

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How Long Are Leftover Mashed Potatoes Good For?

Leftover mashed potatoes are good to enjoy for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

If you don’t plan to eat your leftover mashed potatoes within 3 days, you can freeze them for later. To freeze mashed potatoes, transfer them to a freezer-safe container and label it with the date. Mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw them in the fridge overnight and then reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop.

Just keep in mind that while mashed potatoes can be stored safely for several days, it’s always best to use your best judgment and check for any signs of spoilage before eating them. If they look or smell off, it’s better to err on the side of caution and throw them out.

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How To Reheat Mashed Potatoes

Reheating mashed potatoes is a breeze, and you have a couple of options:

Stovetop Method:

  • Start by placing your thawed mashed potatoes into a large pot.

  • Warm them up over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

  • Sometimes, freezing can alter the texture slightly. To restore that creamy consistency, consider adding a touch of cream, a pat of butter, or even a splash of chicken or vegetable broth during reheating. Begin with a small amount and adjust to your preferred thickness.

  • After reheating, give your mashed potatoes a taste test. You might want to fine-tune the seasoning with a bit of salt or enrich the flavor with thicker dairy options like sour cream or cream cheese if they turn a tad watery.

Microwave:

  • Transfer the mashed potatoes to a microwave-safe dish.

  • Heat the mashed potatoes for 5 minutes at 50% power, stirring the mixture between every interval.

  • Keep heating and stirring until the mashed potatoes are warmed up evenly throughout.

These simple methods ensure your leftover mashed potatoes taste just as delicious as when they were freshly made.

35+ Recipes: What To Eat With Mashed Potatoes - Foodess (11)

Mashed Potato FAQs

In case you’re just skimming, here are some quick answers to common questions:

What to pair with mashed potatoes?
Mashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide range of dishes. They’re a classic accompaniment for roasted meats like chicken, beef, and pork, but also go well with grilled fish, meatloaf, sausages, and vegetables. You can also pair them with different sauces and gravies for added flavor.

What meat goes well with mashed potatoes?
Almost any meat complements the creamy texture of mashed potatoes. Traditionally, they’re served with roasted chicken, grilled steak, pork chops, meatloaf, or turkey. However, they also work well with more gourmet choices like duck, lamb, or a rich beef bourguignon.

What can I eat with mashed potatoes besides gravy?
While gravy is a classic choice, mashed potatoes can be enjoyed with various toppings and sauces. Consider adding a dollop of butter, shredded cheese, fresh herbs, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or even a creamy cheese sauce. They can also be enjoyed with non-traditional toppings like pesto, salsa, or tzatziki for a twist.

What are the top 3 potatoes for mashed potatoes?
The top three potatoes for making mashed potatoes are Russet, Yukon Gold, and Red potatoes. Russets are starchy and fluffy, making them ideal for a classic mash. Yukon Golds offer a creamy, buttery texture and golden color, while Red potatoes, with their waxy texture, make for a smoother, creamier mash.

What do Americans eat with mashed potatoes?
Mashed potatoes are a staple side dish in American cuisine. They are commonly paired with dishes like roast turkey during Thanksgiving, fried chicken, meatloaf, steak, and pork chops. They’re also frequently accompanied by gravy, especially during holiday meals.

How do you serve mashed potatoes elegantly?
To serve mashed potatoes with a touch of elegance, consider using a piping bag with a decorative tip to pipe them onto plates or into individual serving dishes. You can also use a cookie scoop or ice cream scoop to serve uniform dollops. Garnishing with fresh herbs, a pat of high-quality butter, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate their presentation.

Conclusion

When it comes to what to eat with mashed potatoes, the possibilities are endless! Mashed potatoes can be a versatile addition to any meal, and there are many different options for what to serve alongside them.

Whether you prefer meaty mains, seafood, classic comfort food, vegetables, and salads, or delicious sauces and sides, there is sure to be a perfect pairing for your mashed potatoes. So next time you’re making mashed potatoes, get ready to explore all these delicious possibilities!

I’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite dish to pair with mashed potatoes? Share your go-to recipes and creative ideas in the comments below.

35+ Recipes: What To Eat With Mashed Potatoes - Foodess (12)

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35+ Recipes: What to Eat With Mashed Potatoes

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Servings 8

Dinner

American

Keyword What to Eat with Mashed Potatoes, What To Pair With Mashed Potatoes, What To Serve With Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients

  • 1 batch mashed potatoes
  • 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

  • Prepare your mashed potatoes as directed and serve them up with one of the delicious options above. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 26kcalCarbohydrates: 0.1gProtein: 0.04gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 23mgPotassium: 2mgFiber: 0.01gSugar: 0.01gVitamin A: 87IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 0.003mg

Keyword What to Eat with Mashed Potatoes, What To Pair With Mashed Potatoes, What To Serve With Mashed Potatoes

Last Updated on January 26, 2024 by Jennifer Pallian BSc, RD

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35+ Recipes: What To Eat With Mashed Potatoes - Foodess (15)

Amanda

5 months ago

35+ Recipes: What To Eat With Mashed Potatoes - Foodess (16)
Love all of these ideas! I came here looking for inspo to use up our thanksgiving leftover mashed potatoes and now I think I want to make even *more* mashed potatoes haha.

Reply

35+ Recipes: What To Eat With Mashed Potatoes - Foodess (2024)

FAQs

What food goes well with mashed potatoes? ›

Mashed potatoes go well with a variety of dishes! They pair nicely with roasted or grilled meats like chicken, turkey, or steak. They're also great with sautéed or roasted vegetables, gravy, or even served alongside a hearty stew or meatloaf. It's a versatile side dish!

What can I add to mashed potatoes to make them taste better? ›

Folding chives or scallions into mashed potatoes is a classic technique for a reason, but roasted garlic (garlic is also an allium), caramelized onions, or even a packet of Lipton's French Onion Dip, can all add unbeatable flavor to mashed potatoes.

What does Gordon Ramsay put in his mashed potatoes? ›

Gordon Ramsay's mashed potatoes are known for their richness and flavor. He typically adds butter, heavy cream, and sometimes crème fraîche to his mashed potatoes for a creamy and indulgent texture. Additionally, he often incorporates roasted garlic or chives for extra flavor.

How many potatoes to buy for mashed potatoes for 20 people? ›

Add the butter and warm milk to the bowl and mash with a potato masher or fork (or pass the potatoes through a ricer or food mill for a smoother mash). Season with salt and pepper. Plan on 1/3 to 1/2 pound potatoes per person for your feast.

What meat goes good with potatoes? ›

We rounded up our favorite simple, hearty recipes using beef, pork, or lamb along with potatoes in all of their gloriously diverse forms. Some of these dishes come together at last minute for frenetic weeknights, while others take a little time, perfect for a weekend kitchen project.

What to eat with potatoes as a side? ›

Serve them with your favorite protein and roasted veggies for a simple dinner, or feature them at a holiday meal. They'd pair perfectly with classic side dishes like green bean casserole, balsamic Brussels sprouts, cranberry sauce, and mac and cheese.

What is the trick to thicken mashed potatoes? ›

Whisk a little cornstarch into the warm potatoes, only a teaspoon at a time, until the potatoes thicken to your liking. The potatoes must be warm. You can also use tapioca starch or potato starch, although most cooks are less likely to have those products on hand.

Is milk or water better for mashed potatoes? ›

Simmer your mashed potatoes in milk, not water! Potatoes are like pasta, in that they leach starches into their cooking liquid.

What does Rachael Ray use to mash potatoes? ›

Mash potatoes with half-and-half or milk using a potato masher. Add in the cream cheese and smash until the cheese melts into the potatoes. Add chives or scallions. Season with salt and pepper, to your taste.

What ruins mashed potatoes? ›

Soupy, watery mashed potatoes usually happen because the cooked potatoes were cut into pieces that were too small, weren't drained well enough, or were overcooked.

How many people will 10 lbs of mashed potatoes feed? ›

10 lbs for 20, 100 lbs for 200. If I am serving additional starch dishes, eg., stuffing at Thanksgiving, I might cut back a bit. If you want no leftovers I suppose you could get away with 4 oz per person.

What potatoes are best for mashed potatoes? ›

The best potatoes for mashed potatoes are a starchy varieties like russet, Idaho or Yukon gold. Starchy potatoes are best for mashed potatoes because they have a fluffy, almost airy texture that breaks down easily.

How long should potatoes boil for mashed potatoes? ›

Once boiling, reduce heat, adjusting as needed to maintain a simmer. Cook potatoes until they offer no resistance when pierced: 10–12 minutes for baby potatoes, 15–20 minutes for small potatoes, or 30–40 minutes for large cubed potatoes. Drain potatoes in a colander and let cool 10 minutes.

What is the best mixer for mashed potatoes? ›

The KitchenAid® stand mixer makes quick, easy work of homemade mashed potatoes. Achieve your ideal texture with less effort and add mix-ins quickly and consistently.

What is good for you in mashed potatoes? ›

In addition to carbohydrates — a needed energy source for your body and brain — potatoes contain a wealth of micronutrients. They're a good source of vitamins, minerals and fiber. As a bonus, potatoes are low in calories, contain no fat or cholesterol, and are sodium-free.

How can I dress up my mashed potatoes? ›

To add flavour to regular mashed potato, add 1-2 tablespoons of herbs or seasonings after cooking and mashing. Try wholegrain mustard, horseradish cream, roasted garlic, torn fresh basil leaves, chopped fresh continental parsley or chopped fresh chives.

Can you eat pasta and mashed potatoes? ›

Drain the water, add butter and milk and mash until the potatoes have a fluffy texture. Season with salt to taste, then mix in cooked pasta. Top with freshly cracked black pepper and chopped chives. Serve with melted butter.

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