Red Skin Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Red Skin Mashed Potatoes are the perfect comfort food that combines creamy texture with the natural flavor of red potatoes. Unlike regular mashed potatoes, the skin of the red potatoes is left on, adding a slight earthy flavor and extra nutrients. These potatoes are rich, buttery, and wonderfully smooth, making them a great side dish for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. The addition of garlic and fresh herbs elevates the flavors, making these mashed potatoes not only a delicious choice but also a nutritious one. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs red potatoes (washed and quartered)
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Begin by washing and quartering the red potatoes, leaving the skins on. Place them in a large pot and cover them with water.
2. Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
3. While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a small pan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or fork to mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. For a smoother mash, you can use a potato ricer.
5. Gradually add the melted garlic butter and milk (or cream) to the mashed potatoes. Continue mashing until the potatoes reach your desired smoothness and creaminess.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, drizzle with olive oil or top with fresh parsley or chives as a garnish.
7. Serve warm as a perfect side dish to complement your meal!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people.
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20-25 minutes
• Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

1. Cheesy Red Skin Mashed Potatoes: Add shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or your favorite cheese to the mashed potatoes for a cheesy twist.
2. Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes: Add fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or sage along with the garlic for a fragrant herb-infused flavor.
3. Sour Cream and Chive Mashed Potatoes: Stir in sour cream and top with fresh chives for a tangy, creamy flavor boost.
4. Loaded Red Skin Mashed Potatoes: Add cooked bacon bits, green onions, and cheese to create a loaded version of these mashed potatoes.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, microwave the mashed potatoes with a splash of milk or cream to restore their creaminess, or heat them on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, while red potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and skin, you can substitute with Yukon Gold or russet potatoes if you prefer. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat with a bit of milk or cream to bring them back to their creamy consistency.

Can I use dairy-free ingredients?

Yes, you can substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives, such as vegan butter and almond milk or coconut milk. These substitutions work well to maintain a creamy texture.

Should I peel the potatoes?

No, for this recipe, the skin is left on the red potatoes, which adds flavor and nutrients. If you prefer, you can peel the potatoes, but the skin gives a wonderful texture and taste to the mashed potatoes.

How do I get the mashed potatoes smooth?

For the smoothest mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer or food mill instead of a masher. These tools ensure that the potatoes are silky and lump-free.

Can I freeze mashed potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove with a little added milk or cream to restore their consistency.

Can I add other vegetables to the mashed potatoes?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or parsnips for a twist on the classic mashed potato. Just boil and mash them with the potatoes for added flavor.

How can I make these mashed potatoes extra creamy?

For extra creaminess, use heavy cream instead of milk and add more butter. A splash of cream cheese or sour cream will also add richness.

How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?

The potatoes are ready when a fork or knife easily slides into them without resistance. If they’re still firm in the center, give them a few more minutes to cook.

Can I use a hand mixer to mash the potatoes?

Yes, you can use a hand mixer, but be careful not to over-mix the potatoes as this can make them gluey. Mix just until creamy and smooth.

Conclusion

Red Skin Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, with their creamy texture and rich, buttery flavor. The red skins add a rustic touch and a bit of extra flavor, making these mashed potatoes a standout side dish for any meal. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering, this recipe is easy to make and endlessly versatile. With options to make them cheesy, garlicky, or loaded with toppings, these mashed potatoes will be a hit every time you serve them.

Red Skin Mashed Potatoes Recipe

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Creamy, buttery mashed red potatoes with the skin left on for extra flavor and nutrients. Perfectly seasoned with garlic and herbs, this side dish is a family favorite.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1. 2 lbs red potatoes (washed and quartered)
2. ½ cup unsalted butter
3. ½ cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
4. 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
5. Salt and pepper to taste
6. Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
7. 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra flavor)

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Instructions

Wash and quarter the red potatoes, leaving the skins on. Place them in a large pot and cover them with water.

1. Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring it to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
2. While the potatoes cook, melt the butter in a small pan over low heat and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them using a potato masher or fork to your desired consistency.
4. Gradually add the melted garlic butter and milk (or cream), continuing to mash until smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and drizzle with olive oil if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
6. Serve warm as a side dish.

Notes

1. For a smoother texture, use a potato ricer instead of a masher.
2. Feel free to make these mashed potatoes ahead of time and reheat with a splash of milk or cream.
3. For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives like almond or coconut milk.
4. Add other vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for a twist on the classic mash.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 30mg