Mashed potatoes are a classic and versatile side dish that pairs well with various foods. Whether serving them as a comforting accompaniment to a hearty main course or incorporating them into a more elaborate meal, knowing what to eat with mashed potatoes can elevate your dining experience to new heights.
This article will explore various options for complementing mashed potatoes, ranging from traditional choices to more adventurous combinations.
Also Read: What Vegetables Should Not Be Juiced
What Side Dishes Go With Mashed Potatoes?
Mashed potatoes are a versatile and beloved side dish that pairs well with other words. Whether serving them as a comforting accompaniment to a hearty main course or incorporating them into a more elaborate meal, numerous side dishes can complement mashed potatoes’ creamy and fluffy texture.
Here are some easy meals with mashed potatoes to try:
Gravy
If you are concerned about what to eat with potatoes for dinner, know that gravy is one of the most classic and traditional pairings with mashed potatoes. The rich and savory gravy flavors add depth and moisture to the potatoes, enhancing their taste. Gravy can be made from various ingredients such as beef, chicken, turkey, or vegetarian options like mushroom or onion gravy. Pouring warm sauce over mashed potatoes creates a delicious combination that is hard to resist.
Roasted Vegetables
To try healthy meals with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables provide a contrasting texture and vibrant flavors that complement the smoothness of mashed potatoes. Popular choices include roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, green beans, or asparagus. The caramelization during roasting adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the vegetables, making them an excellent accompaniment to the mild taste of mashed potatoes.
Steamed or Sautéed Greens
When it comes to things to add to mashed potatoes, adding some greens to your plate can help balance out the richness of mashed potatoes. Steamed or sautéed greens like spinach, kale, Swiss chard, or broccoli rabe provide a fresh and nutritious element to the meal. These greens can be lightly seasoned with garlic, lemon juice, or olive oil to enhance their flavor without overpowering the taste of the mashed potatoes.
Roast Meat
Mashed potatoes are often served alongside roast meat dishes such as roast beef, roast chicken, or roast turkey. The tender and juicy meat pairs well with the creamy texture of mashed potatoes, creating a satisfying combination. The natural juices from the roast can also be a flavorful sauce for the potatoes.
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is a classic accompaniment if you’re serving mashed potatoes as part of a holiday meal. The tartness and sweetness of cranberry sauce provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the potatoes. The vibrant red color of the sauce also adds visual appeal to the plate.
Grilled or Roasted Mushrooms
Mushrooms have an earthy and savory flavor that compliments mashed potatoes beautifully. Grilling or roasting mushrooms intensifies their taste and enhances their natural umami flavors. Whether you choose button mushrooms, portobello mushrooms, or wild mushrooms, they can add depth and complexity to your mashed potato dish.
Braised Meats
Braised meats, such as short ribs or pot roast, are tender and flavorful dishes that pair well with mashed potatoes. The rich and hearty flavors of braised meats complement the creamy texture of the potatoes, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
Sausages
As an option to try cheap meals with mashed potatoes, grilled, roasted, or pan-fried sausages can be a delicious addition. The savory and slightly smoky flavors of sausages provide a tasty contrast to the mild taste of the potatoes. You can serve them whole alongside the mashed potatoes or slice them up and mix them into the dish.
Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a classic side dish that goes exceptionally well with mashed potatoes. The creamy and velvety texture of the spinach pairs perfectly with the smoothness of the potatoes. The combination creates a luxurious and indulgent side dish that is comforting and flavorful.
Baked Beans
For Sunday dinner ideas with mashed potatoes, baked beans are a popular side dish that can add a touch of sweetness and tanginess to mashed potatoes. Combining creamy potatoes with the rich flavors of baked beans creates a satisfying contrast in taste and texture.
Kitchen Tools For Making Meals With Mashed Potatoes
To make meals with mashed potatoes, several kitchen tools can be used to ensure a smooth and delicious result. These tools help in various process stages, from preparing the potatoes to mashing them to the desired consistency.
Here are some essential kitchen tools for making meals with mashed potatoes:
Potato Peeler
A potato peeler removes the skin from the potatoes before cooking. This tool makes it easier and more efficient to peel multiple potatoes quickly. It is available in different designs, including handheld peelers and electric peelers.
Potato Masher
A potato masher is a classic tool to mash cooked potatoes into a smooth and creamy consistency. It typically consists of a handle attached to a flat metal plate with small holes or wires. Pressing the masher on the cooked potatoes breaks them apart and creates a mashed texture.
Potato Ricer
A potato ricer is another tool commonly used for making mashed potatoes. It resembles a giant garlic press and works by forcing the cooked potatoes through small holes, resulting in refined, fluffy mashed potatoes. Using a ricer ensures a consistent texture without any lumps.
Food Mill
A food mill is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for various purposes, including making mashed potatoes. It consists of a bowl with small holes at the bottom and a rotating blade or disk that pushes the food through the holes. Bypassing the cooked potatoes through the mill removes lumps and creates a smooth puree.
Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
Using a stand or hand mixer can be beneficial for those who prefer an even smoother texture. After boiling and draining the cooked potatoes, they can be placed in the mixing bowl and blended quickly until they reach the desired consistency.
Immersion Blender
An immersion blender is another option for achieving mashed potatoes’ smooth and creamy texture. This handheld tool is placed directly into the pot or bowl of cooked potatoes, and by blending them, it creates a uniform surface without the need to transfer the potatoes to a separate container.
Potato Ricer Attachment
Some stand mixers offer attachments designed explicitly for mashing potatoes. These attachments often resemble a potato ricer and can be attached to the mixer’s head. Feeding the cooked potatoes through the extension produces fluffy mashed potatoes with minimal effort.
Food Processor
While less commonly used than other tools, a food processor can make mashed potatoes. After boiling and draining the potatoes, they can be added to the food processor and other ingredients like butter and milk. Piquing the mixture combines all the elements and creates a creamy texture.
Whisk
A whisk can incorporate additional ingredients into mashed potatoes, such as butter, milk, cream, or seasonings. It helps in evenly distributing these ingredients throughout the mashed potatoes for enhanced flavor.
Rubber Spatula
A rubber spatula helps scrape down the sides of bowls or pots when transferring mashed potatoes to serving dishes. It ensures that no portion of the mashed potatoes is wasted and helps in achieving a clean presentation.
What To Do With Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Leftover mashed potatoes can be transformed into delicious and creative dishes like leftover mashed potatoes breakfast, allowing you to make the most out of your leftovers. Here are several ideas on what you can do with leftover mashed potatoes:
Shepherd’s Pie
One classic dish made with leftover mashed potatoes is shepherd’s pie mashed potatoes. Layer the mashed potatoes over a mixture of cooked ground meat (beef or lamb), vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn), and gravy in a baking dish. Bake it in the oven until the top is golden brown and the filling bubbly. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes.
Potato Pancakes
Another popular option is to make potato pancakes, also known as latkes. Mix the mashed potatoes with flour, beaten eggs, chopped onions, and seasonings such as salt and pepper. Form the mixture into patties and fry them in a skillet until they are crispy and golden brown on both sides. Serve them with sour cream or applesauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Loaded Potato Skins
Leftover mashed potatoes can also be used to make loaded potato skins. Cut baked potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin layer behind. Fill the hollowed-out potato skins with leftover mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, bacon bits, and green onions. Bake them in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. These loaded potato skins make for a tasty appetizer or side dish.
Potato Croquettes
To try some vegetarian meals with mashed potatoes:
- Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into crispy potato croquettes.
- Mix the mashed potatoes with grated cheese, chopped herbs (such as parsley or chives), and seasonings.
- Shape the mixture into small cylinders or balls, then roll them in breadcrumbs.
- Fry the croquettes in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve them as a snack or side dish with your favorite dipping sauce.
Potato Soup
Leftover mashed potatoes can be used as a base for a creamy potato soup. In a pot, sauté onions, garlic, and other desired vegetables (such as carrots or celery) until softened. Add chicken or vegetable broth to a simmer, and then stir in the mashed potatoes until they are fully incorporated. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice. Simmer for a few more minutes until the flavors meld together. Serve the potato soup hot with some crusty bread for a comforting meal.
FAQs
Can You Eat Mashed Potatoes As A Meal?
Yes, mashed potatoes can be eaten as a meal as they are versatile dishes that can be enjoyed on their own or paired with other ingredients to create a satisfying and nutritious meal.
What Meat Goes With Mashed Potatoes And Gravy?
The meat that traditionally goes well with mashed potatoes and gravy is roast beef. Other popular options include fried chicken and pork chops.
What Vegetarian Dishes Can I Serve With Mashed Potatoes?
Numerous vegetarian dishes can be served with mashed potatoes, including roasted vegetables, lentil shepherd’s pie, and mushroom gravy. These dishes provide a variety of flavors and textures that complement the creamy and comforting nature of mashed potatoes.
Conclusion
Mashed potatoes are a versatile and delicious side dish that can be paired with a wide range of foods. From meats to vegetables, seafood to plant-based proteins, there are plenty of options for what to eat with mashed potatoes. The key is to consider your preferences and experiment with combinations to find the perfect match for your taste buds.
