Classic Mashed Potatoes with Creamy Gravy

Introduction

Few dishes embody comfort and warmth like a generous serving of buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes topped with silky, savory gravy. This classic recipe is the ultimate side dish, equally at home on a Thanksgiving or Christmas table as it is beside a weeknight roast chicken.

The mashed potatoes are smooth, rich, and buttery, while the gravy adds depth and flavor, tying everything together. Whether paired with roasted meats, vegetables, or enjoyed on their own, this duo is universally loved and never goes out of style.

Why I Love This Recipe

• Simple yet indulgent: With basic ingredients like potatoes, butter, cream, and broth, you get an incredibly rich and comforting dish.
• Crowd-pleaser: No holiday meal feels complete without it—everyone loves mashed potatoes.
• Make-ahead friendly: Both mashed potatoes and gravy can be prepped in advance, perfect for busy dinners.
• Customizable: You can adjust creaminess, seasoning, and even add garlic or cheese to suit your taste.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

• It’s the foundation of classic comfort food.
• Perfect for both holiday feasts and everyday meals.
• The gravy elevates the potatoes, making them restaurant-worthy.
• It pairs with nearly everything—roast turkey, chicken, beef, or even vegetarian mains.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: ~280 kcal (without gravy) / ~340 kcal (with gravy)

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Side Dish
• Cuisine: American Comfort / Holiday Cuisine

Ingredients

For Mashed Potatoes:

• 3 lbs (1.5 kg) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• ¾ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half, warmed)
• ½ cup whole milk (warmed)
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt (plus more for boiling water)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 2 cloves roasted garlic or ½ cup sour cream for extra flavor

For Creamy Gravy:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups chicken or turkey stock (or vegetable stock for vegetarian)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

1. Place peeled and cut potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold salted water.
2. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender (about 20 minutes).
3. Drain well to remove excess water.

Step 2: Mash the Potatoes

1. Return potatoes to the pot over low heat for 1–2 minutes to dry out.
2. Add butter, warm cream, and milk gradually.
3. Mash with a potato masher or use a potato ricer for a fluffier texture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to make a roux.
3. Slowly whisk in stock until smooth and lump-free.
4. Simmer until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
5. Stir in Worcestershire sauce (if using) and season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

1. Scoop mashed potatoes into a serving bowl.
2. Pour gravy generously over the top or serve on the side.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a side dish with roast turkey, beef, chicken, or pork.
• Garnish with chopped parsley, chives, or a pat of melting butter.
• For holiday tables, keep gravy warm in a gravy boat for easy serving.

Recipe Tips

• Warm ingredients = creamy potatoes: Always add warm milk and cream to avoid gummy potatoes.
• Don’t over-mash: Overworking the potatoes can make them gluey. Use a masher or ricer for best texture.
• Gravy too thick? Add a splash of stock. Too thin? Simmer longer.
• Make-ahead: Prepare potatoes up to 1 day ahead, then reheat with a splash of cream.

Variations

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add roasted garlic for a deeper flavor.
2. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Mix in shredded cheddar, parmesan, or cream cheese.
3. Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley.
4. Vegan Version: Replace butter with vegan butter and cream with almond or oat milk.
5. Brown Gravy Variation: Use beef stock instead of chicken for richer flavor.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate mashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze mashed potatoes (without gravy) in portions for up to 1 month. Reheat with cream or milk.
• Gravy Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, whisking to restore texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large stockpot
• Potato masher or potato ricer
• Saucepan for gravy
• Whisk

Conclusion

Classic Mashed Potatoes with Creamy Gravy is the ultimate comfort food side dish—rich, creamy, and endlessly versatile. It’s a staple at holiday feasts but also easy enough for weeknight dinners. Whether paired with roasted meats or enjoyed on its own, this recipe delivers nostalgic comfort and indulgent flavor in every bite.