Mashed potatoes. The epitome of comfort food. A creamy, dreamy cloud of potato goodness that has graced dinner tables for generations. But let’s be honest, mashed potatoes rarely steal the show on their own. They’re the ultimate supporting player, the reliable sidekick that elevates any meal. So, what exactly goes well with mashed potatoes? Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure as we explore the delicious possibilities!
The Classics: Meat and Potatoes Reimagined
The pairing of meat and potatoes is a tale as old as time. But there’s more to it than just throwing any cut of meat next to a scoop of fluffy potatoes. The key is to consider the flavor profile and texture of the meat and create a harmonious balance.
Roast Chicken: A Timeless Combination
Few things rival the simplicity and satisfaction of roast chicken with mashed potatoes. The crispy skin of the chicken, the succulent meat, and the rich gravy all complement the creamy smoothness of the potatoes perfectly. Consider adding roasted garlic to your mashed potatoes for an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken. The subtle sweetness of the roasted garlic enhances both the chicken and the potatoes, creating a truly unforgettable meal.
Steak: A Match Made in Culinary Heaven
A perfectly seared steak, whether it’s a ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon, deserves a worthy companion. Mashed potatoes provide the ideal canvas for the steak’s rich flavors. To elevate this classic pairing, consider adding horseradish or blue cheese to your mashed potatoes. The horseradish provides a zesty kick that cuts through the richness of the steak, while the blue cheese adds a tangy and creamy element that complements the beef beautifully. Don’t forget a generous drizzle of pan sauce or red wine reduction over both the steak and the potatoes for an extra layer of indulgence.
Pork Chops: A Savory Delight
Pork chops, often overlooked, can be a fantastic partner for mashed potatoes. Whether pan-fried, baked, or grilled, the key is to ensure the pork chops are tender and flavorful. A simple pan sauce made with apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey can add a delightful tanginess that complements both the pork and the potatoes. For your mashed potatoes, consider incorporating some roasted apples or caramelized onions for a touch of sweetness and depth.
Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Meal
Meatloaf and mashed potatoes are a match made in comfort food heaven. The savory, slightly sweet meatloaf pairs perfectly with the creamy, comforting potatoes. A rich brown gravy is essential to tie everything together. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a swirl of pesto or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions to your mashed potatoes. The pesto adds a burst of freshness and herbaceousness, while the crispy fried onions provide a delightful textural contrast.
Beyond the Meat: Vegetarian and Vegan Pairings
Mashed potatoes aren’t just for meat lovers! They can also be a delicious and versatile base for vegetarian and vegan meals.
Roasted Vegetables: A Colorful and Flavorful Medley
Roasted vegetables are a fantastic way to add color, flavor, and nutrients to your mashed potato meal. Consider roasting a medley of root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. The sweetness of the roasted vegetables complements the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes perfectly. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness and brings all the flavors together.
Lentil Stew: A Hearty and Satisfying Option
A hearty lentil stew is a delicious and nutritious vegetarian option that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes. The earthy flavors of the lentils, combined with the savory vegetables and aromatic spices, create a comforting and satisfying meal. Top your mashed potatoes with the lentil stew and a dollop of vegan sour cream or plain yogurt for an extra layer of creaminess.
Mushroom Gravy: An Earthy and Umami-Rich Delight
Mushroom gravy is a classic vegetarian gravy that adds a rich and savory flavor to mashed potatoes. The earthy umami notes of the mushrooms complement the creamy texture of the potatoes perfectly. Consider using a variety of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms, to create a complex and flavorful gravy. A splash of dry sherry or Madeira wine can also add depth and complexity to the gravy.
Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie: A Comforting Classic Reimagined
Vegetarian shepherd’s pie, with a hearty filling of lentils, vegetables, and herbs, topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes, is a comforting and satisfying meal. The mashed potato topping provides a smooth and creamy contrast to the savory filling. Consider adding a sprinkle of cheese or breadcrumbs to the mashed potato topping before baking for a crispy and golden-brown crust.
Adding Flair: Sauces, Gravies, and Toppings
Mashed potatoes are a blank canvas, waiting to be transformed by the perfect sauce, gravy, or topping.
Gravy: The Classic Complement
Gravy is the quintessential accompaniment to mashed potatoes. Whether it’s a rich brown gravy, a creamy mushroom gravy, or a tangy pan gravy, gravy adds moisture, flavor, and richness to the potatoes. The key to a good gravy is to start with a flavorful base, such as pan drippings, vegetable broth, or mushroom stock. Thicken the gravy with a roux (a mixture of butter and flour) or cornstarch slurry, and season it to taste with salt, pepper, and herbs.
Sauces: Beyond the Gravy Boat
Don’t limit yourself to gravy! A variety of sauces can elevate your mashed potato experience.
Pesto: A Burst of Freshness
A swirl of pesto adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor to mashed potatoes. The bright green color and vibrant aroma of pesto also make the potatoes more visually appealing.
Chimichurri: A Zesty South American Sauce
Chimichurri, a zesty South American sauce made with parsley, oregano, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar, adds a bright and tangy flavor to mashed potatoes. It’s especially delicious with grilled or roasted meats.
Hollandaise: A Rich and Creamy Indulgence
Hollandaise sauce, a rich and creamy emulsion of egg yolks, butter, and lemon juice, is a decadent topping for mashed potatoes. It’s especially delicious with asparagus or poached eggs.
Toppings: Adding Texture and Flavor
Toppings are a great way to add texture, flavor, and visual appeal to mashed potatoes.
Crispy Fried Onions: A Delightful Crunch
Crispy fried onions add a delightful crunch and savory flavor to mashed potatoes. They’re especially delicious with meatloaf or roasted chicken.
Bacon Bits: A Savory Addition
Bacon bits add a salty and smoky flavor to mashed potatoes. They’re especially delicious with cheddar cheese and chives.
Chives: A Fresh and Herbaceous Garnish
Chives add a fresh and herbaceous flavor to mashed potatoes. They’re especially delicious with sour cream or cream cheese.
Cheese: A Melty and Delicious Addition
Cheese, such as cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyere, adds a melty and delicious flavor to mashed potatoes. Consider grating the cheese directly into the potatoes while they’re still hot, or topping the potatoes with cheese and broiling them until melted and bubbly.
Flavorful Twists: Elevating Your Mashed Potato Game
Ready to take your mashed potato game to the next level? Try these flavorful twists:
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A Classic for a Reason
Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic for a reason. The roasted garlic adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the creamy potatoes perfectly. Roast a whole head of garlic in the oven until it’s soft and caramelized, then squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into the mashed potatoes.
Sour Cream and Chive Mashed Potatoes: A Tangy Delight
Sour cream and chive mashed potatoes are a tangy and flavorful twist on the classic. The sour cream adds a creamy tanginess, while the chives add a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: A Savory and Cheesy Option
Parmesan mashed potatoes are a savory and cheesy option that’s perfect for pairing with roasted meats or vegetables. Grate Parmesan cheese into the mashed potatoes while they’re still hot, and season with salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg.
Horseradish Mashed Potatoes: A Zesty Kick
Horseradish mashed potatoes add a zesty kick to your meal. The horseradish provides a pungent flavor that cuts through the richness of the potatoes. Be careful not to add too much horseradish, as it can be overpowering.
Sweet Potato Mashed Potatoes: A Nutritious and Delicious Option
Sweet potato mashed potatoes are a nutritious and delicious alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, and they have a naturally sweet flavor that pairs well with savory dishes. Consider adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
Mashed potatoes are far more than just a simple side dish. They’re a versatile culinary canvas that can be transformed with a variety of flavors, textures, and accompaniments. From classic pairings like roast chicken and steak to vegetarian options like lentil stew and mushroom gravy, the possibilities are endless. So, get creative, experiment with different flavors, and discover your own perfect mashed potato pairings!
What are some classic meat pairings for mashed potatoes?
Beef, poultry, and pork are classic companions to creamy mashed potatoes. Think of a juicy pot roast with gravy ladled over a generous mound of potatoes, or perfectly roasted chicken served alongside buttery, garlic-infused mashed potatoes. These pairings provide a satisfying balance of textures and flavors, creating a comforting and hearty meal.
For a truly classic combination, consider pairing mashed potatoes with meatloaf. The savory, seasoned meatloaf complements the mildness of the potatoes perfectly. A rich brown gravy ties the dish together, enhancing the flavor profile and providing a delicious, cohesive experience.
What vegetarian options complement mashed potatoes effectively?
Mashed potatoes are surprisingly versatile and pair well with a variety of vegetarian dishes. Think of a hearty mushroom stroganoff served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, or a vibrant lentil stew offering a flavorful and nutritious counterpoint. The creamy texture of the potatoes complements the earthiness of the mushrooms and the robustness of the lentils, creating a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, are also excellent vegetarian companions. Their slight char and natural sweetness offer a delightful contrast to the creamy potatoes. Consider drizzling a balsamic glaze or a lemon-herb dressing over the vegetables to elevate the flavors and create a more complex dish.
How can I elevate the flavor of mashed potatoes beyond the basics?
Infusing your mashed potatoes with herbs and spices is a simple yet effective way to elevate their flavor. Consider adding roasted garlic, fresh rosemary, thyme, or chives to the potatoes during the mashing process. These additions will impart a subtle yet distinctive flavor that complements a wide range of dishes.
Adding cheese to your mashed potatoes is another excellent way to boost their flavor and richness. Parmesan, cheddar, or Gruyere cheese can be incorporated for a cheesy and decadent twist. For a subtle flavor enhancement, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche just before serving.
What sauces and gravies pair best with mashed potatoes?
Gravy is arguably the most classic and popular sauce to serve with mashed potatoes. Whether it’s a rich brown gravy made from meat drippings, a creamy mushroom gravy, or a lighter vegetable gravy, it adds moisture and depth of flavor to the potatoes. The key is to choose a gravy that complements the main course and the overall flavor profile of the meal.
Beyond gravy, consider serving mashed potatoes with a variety of other sauces. Pesto, chimichurri, or even a simple butter sauce infused with herbs can be delicious alternatives. These sauces offer a brighter, more vibrant flavor that can cut through the richness of the potatoes and create a more balanced dish.
What side dishes complement mashed potatoes in a complete meal?
Since mashed potatoes are a relatively rich and creamy side dish, consider pairing them with lighter, more acidic side dishes to create a balanced meal. Steamed green beans, asparagus, or a simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast. These sides will help to cleanse the palate and prevent the meal from feeling too heavy.
Consider adding a source of fiber and texture to the meal. A side of roasted root vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, can add both sweetness and crunch. Alternatively, a grain-based side dish, such as quinoa or couscous, can provide a satisfying source of carbohydrates and fiber.
Can mashed sweet potatoes be paired with the same foods as regular mashed potatoes?
While some pairings overlap, mashed sweet potatoes have a distinct flavor profile that necessitates slightly different considerations. They tend to pair well with spicier dishes or those with a touch of sweetness to complement their natural sweetness. Think of them with pulled pork with a sweet BBQ sauce, or alongside a black bean burger with a chipotle aioli.
Sweet potatoes also work well with ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup, opening up possibilities for autumnal flavor combinations. Roasted turkey with cranberry sauce and mashed sweet potatoes creates a classic Thanksgiving meal. They can also be used in savory dishes, such as shepherd’s pie with a sweet potato topping.
What are some unexpected pairings that work surprisingly well with mashed potatoes?
While mashed potatoes are often relegated to supporting roles, they can shine in unexpected combinations. Consider using them as a base for a deconstructed shepherd’s pie, topping with ground lamb or beef, peas, and carrots. The potatoes provide a creamy and comforting foundation for the savory filling.
Another surprising pairing is mashed potatoes with seafood. Pan-seared scallops or grilled shrimp served atop a bed of garlic mashed potatoes can be a delightful and elegant dish. The creamy potatoes complement the delicate flavor of the seafood, creating a sophisticated and satisfying meal.