Prepare to revolutionize your side dish game with the most decadent, melt-in-your-mouth mashed potatoes you've ever tasted! Imagine tender russet potatoes slow-cooked to perfection, infused with rich, nutty browned butter, and whipped into a luxurious creamy dream. This isn't just another mashed potato recipe – it's a culinary experience that will transform your dinner table and have everyone begging for seconds. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, these browned butter mashed potatoes are about to become your new go-to comfort food sensation!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, browned
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Chives for garnish
Instructions
- Peel and cut russet potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes, ensuring even cooking. Rinse cubed potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and cook until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, approximately 3-4 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Place cubed potatoes in the slow cooker, spreading them evenly across the bottom of the pot.
- Pour browned butter over the potatoes, ensuring even distribution. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Cover slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 5-6 hours, or until potatoes are extremely tender when pierced with a fork.
- Once potatoes are cooked, add heavy cream and begin mashing directly in the slow cooker using a potato masher or hand mixer.
- Continue mashing until potatoes reach desired smooth and creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Transfer mashed potatoes to a serving dish, creating a small well in the center to pool additional browned butter if desired.
- Garnish with freshly chopped chives and serve hot, offering an additional sprinkle of black pepper if preferred.
Tips
- Potato Selection: Always use starchy russet potatoes for the fluffiest texture. They break down beautifully in the slow cooker and absorb flavors wonderfully.
- Browning Butter Technique: Watch your butter carefully when browning. The sweet spot is a golden-brown color with a nutty aroma – remove from heat immediately to prevent burning.
- Consistent Potato Cubes: Cut potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Rinse them to remove excess starch for a smoother final texture.
- Slow Cooker Magic: Resist the urge to stir too often. Let the slow cooker work its magic, allowing potatoes to cook evenly and develop deep flavors.
- Mashing Method: For ultra-smooth potatoes, use a hand mixer. For a more rustic texture, opt for a traditional potato masher.
- Seasoning Tip: Don't be shy with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings gradually to achieve the perfect flavor balance.
- Serving Suggestion: Create a small well in the center of the potatoes and pool extra browned butter for an extra indulgent touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
