Indulge in a medley of flavors by trying this Ranch-Style Mashed Potatoes recipe. An impressive twist to a classic side dish, these mashed potatoes are loaded with a tangy buttermilk mix, herbs, and cream cheese. It's a recipe that offers a balance of zesty and creamy flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
The main ingredients for this recipe are easily found at your local supermarket. However, fresh herbs such as chives, dill, and parsley, should be fresh and not dried as it significantly affects the overall taste. Also, opt for real buttermilk instead of substitutes for a richer flavor.
Ingredients for Ranch-Style Mashed Potatoes
Potatoes: These are the main ingredient. Make sure they are fresh and firm to the touch.
Garlic cloves: They add a fragrant aroma and a subtle, sweet flavor.
Butter: Adds creaminess and a rich flavor to the dish.
Buttermilk: Adds a tangy flavor that balances out the richness of the other ingredients.
Chives: They add a mild onion flavor.
Dill: This herb provides a fresh, citrusy flavor.
Parsley: Brings a fresh and slightly peppery flavor.
Cream cheese: Adds creaminess and a slight tanginess to the dish.
One reader, Ev Dolan says:
These ranch-style mashed potatoes are a game-changer! The blend of buttermilk, herbs, and cream cheese creates a rich and flavorful dish that's a hit every time. The creamy texture and savory taste make it a perfect comfort food. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delicious twist on classic mashed potatoes.
Techniques Required for Perfect Ranch-Style Mashed Potatoes
How to prepare the potatoes: Cutting the potatoes into evenly-sized chunks and boiling them until tender.
How to make the herb butter mixture: Melting the butter, buttermilk, salt, and pepper together in a saucepan and stirring in the fresh herbs.
How to mash the potatoes: Using a potato masher to achieve the desired consistency, then folding in the herb butter mixture and cream cheese.
How to season the mashed potatoes: Tasting the potatoes and adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
How To Make Ranch Mashed Potatoes
Whip up a smooth and flavorful bowl mashed potatoes, mixed with sweet and savory cream cheese, buttermilk, garlic and more for a creamier side.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 5lbspotatoes
- 4large garlic cloves,minced
- fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper
- 6tbspbutter
- 1½cupsbuttermilk
- ⅓cupfresh chives,chopped
- ⅓cupfresh dill,chopped
- ⅓cupfresh parsley,chopped
- 4ozcream cheese,room temperature
Instructions
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Cut the potatoes into evenly-sized chunks, about an inch or so thick, and transfer them to a large stockpot full of cold water.
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Once all of the potatoes are cut, be sure that there is enough cold water in the pan so that the water line sits about 1 inch above the potatoes.
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Stir the garlic and 1 tablespoon of sea salt into the water. Turn the heat to high and cook until the water comes to a boil.
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Reduce the heat to medium-high, then continue cooking for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the middle of the potato goes in easily with almost no resistance. Carefully drain out all of the water.
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As the potatoes are boiling, heat the butter, buttermilk, 2 teaspoons of sea salt, and ½ teaspoon of freshly-cracked black pepper together in a small saucepan until the butter is just melted. Set aside until ready to use.
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After draining the water, immediately return the potatoes to the hot stock pot. Place it back on the hot burner, and turn the heat down to low.
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Carefully hold the handles on the stockpot, then shake it gently on the burner for about 1 minute to help cook off some of the remaining steam within the potatoes.
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Remove the stockpot entirely from the heat, then set it on a flat, heatproof surface.
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Mash the potatoes using a potato masher for a smoother consistency. Stir the herbs into the melted butter mixture until combined.
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Pour half of the mixture over the potatoes, then fold it in with a wooden spoon or spatula until potatoes have soaked up the liquid. Add the remaining butter mixture and cream cheese, folding them in until just combined to avoid over-mixing.
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Taste the potatoes, then season with extra salt and pepper as needed.
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Serve warm, garnished with extra chopped herbs, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 293.51kcal
- Fat: 11.36g
- Saturated Fat: 6.83g
- Trans Fat: 0.28g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.88g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.54g
- Carbohydrates: 42.73g
- Fiber: 5.14g
- Sugar: 3.97g
- Protein: 6.79g
- Cholesterol: 32.26mg
- Sodium: 672.77mg
- Calcium: 91.81mg
- Potassium: 1054.14mg
- Iron: 2.04mg
- Vitamin A: 117.98µg
- Vitamin C: 49.51mg
Expert Technique Tip for Achieving Creamy Mashed Potatoes
When mashing the potatoes, it's best to use a potato masher for a smoother consistency. However, if you prefer a chunkier texture, you can use a fork instead. Just remember to be gentle and not over-mash, as this can make the potatoes gluey. Also, adding the butter mixture in stages, rather than all at once, allows the potatoes to absorb the liquid more evenly, resulting in a creamier texture.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Ranch-Style Mashed Potatoes
Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the necessary ingredients and tools before starting to cook to save time and avoid interruptions.
Multi-task: Look for opportunities to multi-task, such as chopping vegetables while the potatoes are boiling, to make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Use kitchen gadgets: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors or immersion blenders to speed up tasks such as chopping, blending, or mashing.
Prep in advance: Consider prepping certain ingredients, such as chopping herbs or peeling garlic, ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot meals: Opt for one-pot or one-pan recipes to minimize the number of dishes and cooking steps, saving time on both preparation and cleanup.
Substitute Ingredients For Ranch Mashed Potatoes Recipe
potatoes - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes can add a slightly sweeter and creamier texture to the mashed potatoes, providing a unique twist to the dish.
buttermilk - Substitute with plain yogurt mixed with milk: This combination can provide the tanginess and creaminess similar to buttermilk, while adding a slightly different flavor profile.
chives - Substitute with green onions (scallions): Green onions can provide a similar mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the dish.
dill - Substitute with tarragon: Tarragon can provide a similar subtle anise-like flavor, adding a unique twist to the mashed potatoes.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can provide a fresh and bright flavor, adding a different herbaceous note to the dish.
cream cheese - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream can add a tangy and creamy texture to the mashed potatoes, similar to cream cheese.
Presentation Ideas for Creamy Ranch Mashed Potatoes
- Elevate the plating: When presenting the ranch-style mashed potatoes, consider using a piping bag to create elegant swirls or quenelle shapes for a refined and sophisticated look.
- Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant and visually appealing elements such as a sprinkle of finely chopped chives or a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil to add a pop of color to the dish.
- Opt for elegant serving vessels: Choose sleek and modern serving dishes or opt for classic, timeless porcelain bowls to showcase the rustic elegance of the mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with precision: Delicately place a few fresh herb leaves or edible flowers on top of the mashed potatoes to add a touch of finesse and artistry to the presentation.
- Consider the negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the mashed potatoes to take center stage, creating a visually striking and balanced presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Mashed Potatoes
- Potato masher: A potato masher is a handheld tool used to mash cooked potatoes into a smooth or chunky consistency, depending on the desired texture.
- Large stockpot: A large stockpot is a deep cooking vessel used for boiling or simmering large quantities of food, such as potatoes in this recipe.
- Small saucepan: A small saucepan is used for heating and melting ingredients, such as butter and buttermilk, over a stovetop.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is used for folding in the butter mixture and cream cheese into the mashed potatoes, ensuring gentle mixing without overworking the potatoes.
How To Store and Freeze Leftover Ranch-Style Mashed Potatoes
Here are the detailed instructions for storing and freezing ranch-style mashed potatoes:
- To store in the fridge, transfer the cooled mashed potatoes to an airtight container or cover the pot tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore the creamy consistency.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the mashed potatoes. Let them cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen mashed potatoes, thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You may need to add a bit of milk, cream, or butter to achieve the desired consistency.
- If you plan to freeze a large batch, consider portioning the mashed potatoes into smaller containers or freezer bags. This allows you to thaw and reheat only what you need for future meals, reducing waste and making meal prep more efficient.
- For best results, avoid freezing mashed potatoes that have been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as this can increase the risk of bacterial growth and spoilage.
How To Reheat Leftover Mashed Potatoes
- The best way to reheat leftover ranch-style mashed potatoes is to use the oven or microwave. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the potatoes in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are heated through.
- If using the microwave, place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are heated through. Be careful not to overheat the potatoes, as they can become dry and grainy.
- Another option is to reheat the potatoes on the stovetop. Place the potatoes in a saucepan over low heat and add a splash of milk or cream to help keep them moist. Stir occasionally until the potatoes are heated through.
- Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to stir the potatoes well before serving to redistribute the herbs and seasonings. You may also want to add a pat of butter or a sprinkle of fresh chives to brighten up the flavor.
- If the potatoes seem a bit dry after reheating, you can add a splash of milk or cream and stir well to help restore their creamy texture. Just be careful not to add too much liquid, as this can make the potatoes runny.
- If you have a lot of leftover potatoes, you may want to consider repurposing them into a new dish, such as potato pancakes or shepherd's pie. This can help keep things interesting and prevent food waste.
Interesting Trivia About Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a staple in many cuisines around the world and are often served as a side dish. They are a versatile dish that can be customized with various flavors and ingredients, such as herbs, garlic, and buttermilk.
Is Making Ranch-Style Mashed Potatoes at Home Cost-Effective?
This ranch-style mashed potatoes recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as potatoes and herbs, are affordable and readily available. The addition of buttermilk and cream cheese adds a touch of richness without significantly increasing the cost. Overall, this recipe rates a solid 9 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12, making it a budget-friendly and satisfying side dish.
Are Ranch-Style Mashed Potatoes Healthy or Unhealthy?
The ranch-style mashed potatoes recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest choice due to several factors:
- High calorie content from the butter, cream cheese, and buttermilk
- Significant amount of saturated fat from the butter and cream cheese
- Relatively high sodium content from the added salt and potentially from the butter and cream cheese
However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as:
- Potatoes, which are a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C
- Fresh herbs like chives, dill, and parsley, which provide flavor and some nutrients
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter and cream cheese, or replace them with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt or olive oil
- Use low-fat buttermilk to decrease the overall fat content
- Experiment with using vegetable broth or unsweetened almond milk instead of some of the buttermilk for a lower-calorie option
- Decrease the amount of added salt, and opt for unsalted butter to help control sodium intake
- Increase the proportion of fresh herbs to boost flavor without adding calories or fat
- Consider leaving the skin on the potatoes for added fiber and nutrients
- Serve the mashed potatoes alongside a balanced meal that includes lean proteins and plenty of vegetables to create a well-rounded dining experience
Editor's Opinion on This Delicious Ranch-Style Mashed Potatoes Recipe
The ranch-style mashed potatoes recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The addition of buttermilk, fresh herbs, and cream cheese elevates the flavors and creates a creamy, rich texture. The use of garlic adds a subtle depth, while the combination of chives, dill, and parsley brings a fresh and vibrant element to the dish. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, making this recipe accessible for home cooks. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious and comforting side dish that is sure to impress and satisfy.
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Why trust this Ranch Mashed Potatoes Recipe:
This recipe guarantees creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes with a ranch-style twist. The combination of buttermilk, fresh herbs, and cream cheese creates a rich and indulgent texture, while the addition of garlic infuses a delightful aroma. The step-by-step instructions ensure perfect results, and the use of fresh ingredients guarantees a delicious and wholesome dish. Trust the expertise behind this recipe to elevate your mashed potato game and impress your guests with a delightful culinary creation.
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