Duchess Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Duchess Potatoes are the ultimate indulgence in potato dishes. The smooth, velvety mashed potatoes are infused with butter and cream, making each bite rich and flavorful. What sets this recipe apart is the delightful golden crust that forms during baking, providing the perfect contrast to the soft, creamy interior. The elegant piped shape adds a touch of sophistication, making them ideal for festive meals or special gatherings. If you love potatoes and are looking for a dish that’s both delicious and visually stunning, Duchess Potatoes are a must-try!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet are ideal)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 2 large egg yolks

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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

Directions

1. Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into even chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

2. Mash the potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them using a potato masher or a ricer until smooth. Let them cool for a few minutes.

3. Make the potato mixture: Add the butter, heavy cream, egg yolks, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using) to the mashed potatoes. Stir until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

4. Pipe the potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the mashed potato mixture to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe the potatoes into small mounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet, about 2 inches wide and 2 inches tall.

5. Bake the potatoes: Place the piped potato mounds in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.

6. Serve: Once baked, remove the Duchess Potatoes from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

• Total Time: 50-60 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Duchess Potatoes: Add 1/2 cup of grated cheese (such as Parmesan or cheddar) to the mashed potato mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

• Herb-infused Duchess Potatoes: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives into the mashed potatoes to give them a fresh, fragrant twist.

• Garlic Duchess Potatoes: Add roasted garlic or garlic powder to the mashed potatoes for a savory, aromatic touch.

• Sweet Potato Duchess Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different flavor and color. They will still bake up beautifully golden!

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Duchess Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a microwave, but the crispiness may be lost.

FAQs

1. Can I make Duchess Potatoes in advance?

Yes, you can make the mashed potato mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to serve, simply pipe the mixture onto a baking sheet and bake as directed.

2. Can I freeze Duchess Potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked Duchess Potatoes. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container. To bake from frozen, simply increase the baking time by about 10 minutes.

3. Can I use a different type of potato?

While Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes work best for this recipe due to their texture, you can use other starchy potatoes if desired. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they won’t create the same creamy consistency.

4. Can I skip the egg yolks?

Egg yolks help create a smooth, creamy texture and help the potatoes hold their shape when piped. If you need to skip them, you can use extra butter or cream to achieve a similar consistency.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mashed potato mixture for some heat. Additionally, some finely chopped jalapeños can bring a spicy kick.

6. Do Duchess Potatoes need to be piped?

No, piping is optional. If you prefer a simpler approach, you can spoon the mashed potatoes onto the baking sheet in mounds or use a spoon to shape them into desired forms.

7. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used instead of butter, but the flavor and texture may be slightly different. Butter adds richness, so the taste will be a little less indulgent with margarine.

8. Can I make these potatoes vegan?

Yes, to make Duchess Potatoes vegan, substitute the butter with vegan butter, use a plant-based cream, and omit the egg yolks or replace them with a flaxseed egg.

9. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

For the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to use freshly boiled potatoes. Instant mashed potatoes won’t provide the same creamy consistency or richness required for this dish.

10. Can I make Duchess Potatoes without piping them?

Yes! If you don’t have a piping bag or prefer not to pipe, you can simply spoon the mashed potatoes onto the baking sheet and flatten them slightly into mounds. The result will still be delicious.

Conclusion

Duchess Potatoes are an elegant and flavorful side dish that’s sure to impress your family and guests. The combination of creamy, buttery potatoes with a crisp, golden exterior creates the perfect balance of textures. Whether for a special occasion or a comforting family meal, this recipe adds a touch of refinement to any dinner. Easy to customize and fun to make, Duchess Potatoes are bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection!