Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes Recipe
This Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes recipe is perfect for preparing a large batch of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes in advance. Made with golden potatoes, half and half, and unsalted butter, these mashed potatoes freeze beautifully and can be reheated in the oven for a convenient, warm side dish anytime. Ideal for holiday meals or family gatherings, this recipe serves 12 and allows for easy prep and storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes including prep and reheating
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 5 pounds golden potatoes
- 1 tablespoon salt
Dairy
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 sticks unsalted butter, divided
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Fill a large cooking pot with cold water. Peel each golden potato and immediately place it in the cold water to prevent discoloration.
- Cook Potatoes: Once all potatoes are in the pot, turn the heat to HIGH and bring the water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and boil the potatoes until they are tender throughout, about 15 minutes.
- Drain and Return: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them hot to the pot to prepare for mashing.
- Mash Potatoes: Add 2 cups of half and half and one stick of unsalted butter to the hot potatoes. Using an electric mixer, beat the potatoes until they are smooth, creamy, and fully combined.
- Prepare for Freezing: Transfer the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe storage dishes such as 8×8-inch pans or mini loaf pans. Slice the remaining stick of butter and dot it evenly over the surface of the potatoes.
- Freeze: Cover the pans tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil. Place the foil-covered pans inside freezer-safe bags and freeze until ready to use.
- Reheat: To serve, place the frozen mashed potatoes (still covered with foil) directly into a 350°F oven. Heat for 30 minutes, then stir and continue cooking until warmed through.
- Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the mashed potatoes and add an extra splash of half and half or salt if needed, adjusting to your preference.
Notes
- Using golden potatoes provides a naturally creamy texture and buttery flavor.
- Peeling and placing potatoes in cold water prevents them from browning before cooking.
- Freezing in individual pans allows for easy portion control and storage.
- The butter sliced on top before freezing helps maintain moisture and richness upon reheating.
- Reheating with the foil cover on helps to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
- Adjust the consistency of the mashed potatoes after reheating by adding more half and half if necessary.
Find it online: https://marthatasty.com/make-ahead-mashed-potatoes-recipe/
