Mashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food with Fabulous Sauces Gravies

Mashed potatoes are a timeless classic, and their versatility means you can pair them with a myriad of delicious sauces and gravies. Whether it's a comforting Thanksgiving feast or an everyday meal, there's always a way to make them even more delightful. Let's explore various options to make your mashed potatoes truly stand out.

Choosing the Perfect Side for Mashed Potatoes

When it comes to mashed potatoes, the possibilities are endless. From a classic brown gravy to a simple ketchup or a spicy kick from Franks Red Hot sauce, the choice is yours. Here are a few options to consider:

Option 1: Brown Gravy

Perfect for Thanksgiving: Brown gravy is a go-to choice for a traditional Thanksgiving feast. To make it, start by frying bacon or ham and then add a roux. Slowly whisk in beef broth and a bit of Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until the gravy thickens and reduce it if needed. Serve it over your mashed potatoes to add a rich, savory flavor.

Option 2: Garlic Butter Sour Cream Green Onion

For a more everyday option, try a simple yet comforting mix of garlic butter and sour cream with a sprinkle of green onions on top. This combination is light yet flavorful and adds a nice herby note to the dish. It pairs well with any savory dish, making your mashed potatoes the perfect partner.

Option 3: Butter and Trashy Parm

If you're craving a bit of tanginess, mix melted butter with grated Parmesan cheese and a dash of hot sauce. This pairing brings a bit of Italian flavor to your mashed potatoes, making each bite a delicious blend of creamy textures and robust tastes.

Personal Preferences and Experimentations

Perhaps you prefer your mashed potatoes without any additional sauces, simply seasoned with salt, pepper, and a touch of butter or milk. This minimalist approach is ideal when you want to let the potatoes shine on their own. For me, I often make them with buttermilk and roasted garlic for a subtle, delicious flavor.

Gravy for Specific Dishes

When you want to go a step further with your mashed potatoes, consider making a delicious gravy that complements your main dish. For example, if you're serving roasted chicken, you can make a gravy by frying chicken pieces and then reducing the fat. Add a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken it and serve over the potatoes. You can also add a touch of wine or stock to create a richer flavor.

Gravy for Game Day or Special Occasions

For a special occasion like Thanksgiving, consider making a delish?re giblet gravy. This traditional gravy is rich and flavorful, made from fried gizzards, neck, heart, and liver. Cook them with garlic and shallots, and then mince them up. Add some liquid such as red or white wine, and reduce it to thicken the gravy. Add a bit of cornstarch if needed. Serve this alongside your mashed potatoes for a luxurious touch.

Gravies for Specific Meats and Fish

If you're pairing your mashed potatoes with meat or fish dishes, consider adding a simple béchamel or a thickening soup to soak in. This not only adds flavor but also helps in enhancing the overall hearty nature of the meal. For instance, a béchamel sauce, also known as a white sauce, is perfect for chicken dishes and can be served alongside your mashed potatoes to add a creamy and comforting layer to your meal.

Conclusion

Judging from all the mentioned options, the possibilities are endless when it comes to choosing the perfect sauce for your mashed potatoes. Whether you're looking to infuse them with bold flavors or keep the taste simple, there's always a way to make them unforgettable. Which of these gravies or sauces do you prefer, and what's your go-to choice for mashed potatoes?