30 Dinner Ideas with Mashed Potatoes as a Side

Looking for dinner ideas with mashed potatoes as a side? This roundup has everything from juicy chicken and pork chops to tender ribs, turkey, and beef recipes, plus homemade gravy recipes to tie it all together.

For the creamiest, most flavorful mashed potatoes, check out my Garlic Red Skin Mashed Potatoes recipe. They're delicious with Ham in a Roaster Oven, Lipton Onion Soup Mix Pot Roast, or any of these easy recipes that go with mashed potatoes.

collage of dinner ideas to serve with mashed potatoes.

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All of the recipes in this roundup are pure comfort food, perfect for pairing with creamy mashed potatoes on a weeknight or special occasion.

You'll find hearty favorites like Salisbury steak, Swedish meatballs, chicken paprikash, and French onion pot roast, along with quick main course options such as smothered pork chops, skillet meatballs, and lemon garlic chicken thighs.

Each recipe comes from trusted bloggers, so you know they're tested, tasty, and ready for your dinner table.

Dinner Ideas with Mashed Potatoes as a Side

Tips for the Best Mashed Potatoes

  • Start with the right potato. Russets give you fluffy mash, Yukon Golds are creamy and buttery, and red potatoes have tender skins that can be left on for rustic, flavorful mashed potatoes.
  • Cut evenly. Chop potatoes into similar-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.
  • Start the potatoes in cold water. This will help them cook evenly for the creamiest, lump-free mashed potatoes.
  • Salt the water. Add plenty of salt to the cooking water-it seasons the potatoes from the inside out.
  • Use room temperature dairy. Let your whole milk, cream, or butter come to room temperature before adding to prevent the potatoes from cooling down and absorbing unevenly.
  • Mash gently. For smooth, fluffy potatoes, use a potato masher or ricer. Overmixing with a hand mixer or food processor can make them gummy.
  • Make them rich. A little sour cream, cream cheese, or roasted garlic cloves take mashed potatoes to the next level.
  • Keep them warm. Hold mashed potatoes in a slow cooker on the warm setting or in a covered oven-safe dish until ready to serve.

Mashed Potato FAQs

What type of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?

Russet potatoes are light and fluffy, Yukon Gold potatoes are naturally creamy and buttery, and red potatoes are smooth with tender skins that don't need peeling. Many cooks like to mix varieties for the perfect texture and flavor.

How do you keep mashed potatoes from being gummy?

Don't overmix or overprocess the potatoes, as that can make them gluey. Mash by hand or with a ricer and add warm dairy gradually.

Can mashed potatoes be made ahead of time?

Yes! Make them a day in advance and store covered in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven with a little extra butter or cream stirred in.

How do you keep mashed potatoes warm for serving?

Keep them in a slow cooker on the warm setting or place them in a covered dish over a pan of simmering water. This keeps them hot and creamy without drying out.

Can leftover mashed potatoes be frozen?

Yes, but only if they're made with plenty of fat like butter and heavy cream, which helps preserve the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes. Freeze in portions in an airtight container and reheat slowly.

What can I add to mashed potatoes for more flavor?

Mix in roasted garlic, sour cream, cream cheese, or fresh parsley or other fresh herbs. Toppings like gravy, caramelized onions, or shredded cheddar cheese also make them extra delicious.

More Easy Dinner Recipes

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