Get ready for a flavor fiesta with these Herb-Infused Broccoli Mashed Potatoes! Creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-delicious, this mash-up of Yukon gold potatoes and tender broccoli is sure to steal the show at your dinner table.
Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food everyone loves, but adding a twist with broccoli and fresh herbs takes this dish to a new level. Herbed Broccoli Mashed Potatoes combines the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes with the nutritional benefits of broccoli, creating a side dish that’s both delicious and healthy.
Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details and discover why this dish is a must-try.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Delicious: The addition of broccoli adds a nutritional boost to traditional mashed potatoes, making this dish both tasty and healthy.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
- Versatile: You can customize the herbs and seasonings to suit your preferences, making it a versatile side dish that’s sure to please.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a hit at family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings, ensuring that everyone will enjoy its delicious flavors.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Potatoes
Potatoes are the star of this recipe. Yukon gold or russet varieties work best due to their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape when cooked. You can also use red potatoes for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Broccoli
Broccoli adds a nutritional boost and a pleasant texture to the mashed potatoes. You can use fresh or frozen broccoli florets, depending on what you have available.
Milk and Cream
Milk and cream add richness and creaminess to the mashed potatoes. You can use whole milk or a combination of milk and cream for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, use almond milk or coconut milk.
Butter
Butter provides richness and flavor to the mashed potatoes. You can use salted or unsalted butter, depending on your preference. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter.
Basil
Fresh basil adds a bright and herbal note to the mashed potatoes. You can substitute it with other fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme for a different flavor profile.
Herbed Broccoli Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- ~4 pounds or approx 8-10 large potatoes – Yukon gold or russet variety, peeled and quartered
- ~3 cups broccoli heads remove florets
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 stick butter or approximately 4 tablespoons of butter
- 1/2 cup basil chiffonade (here is a great pictorial on how to chiffonade basil!)
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Put the scrubbed and cleaned potatoes into a pot of salted water (not heated yet!). Turn on the heat on your stove to medium-high and bring the water to a boil. Cook the potatoes for 20 minutes in boiling water until very tender.
- Add the Broccoli: Now add the broccoli heads to the potatoes in boiling water for an additional 7 minutes. Drain and place the broccoli and potatoes into a pot.
- Prepare the Cream Mixture: Carefully heat the milk, cream, and butter in a small saucepan until simmering lightly.
- Mash and Mix: Add the basil and cream mixture into the potatoes and broccoli, and mash together using a potato masher. Season to taste with kosher salt and pepper.
- Serve: Serve hot with melted butter, if desired.
Notes
- Ensure the potatoes are fully cooked and tender before mashing.
- You can adjust the milk, cream, and butter amount to achieve your desired consistency.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of butter.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 5g
How to Make Herbed Broccoli Mashed Potatoes (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Put the scrubbed and cleaned potatoes into a pot of salted water (not heated yet!). Turn on the heat on your stove to medium-high and bring the water to a boil. Cook the potatoes for 20 minutes in boiling water until very tender. This step ensures that the potatoes are fully cooked and ready to be mashed.
Step 2: Add the Broccoli
Now add the broccoli heads to the potatoes in boiling water for an additional 7 minutes. Drain and place the broccoli and potatoes into a pot. This step allows the broccoli to cook and become tender, adding a nutritional boost to the dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Mixture
Carefully heat the milk, cream, and butter in a small saucepan until simmering lightly. This step creates a rich and creamy mixture that will be added to the potatoes and broccoli.
Step 4: Mash and Mix
Add the basil and cream mixture into the potatoes and broccoli, and mash together using a potato masher. Season to taste with kosher salt and pepper. This step ensures that the flavors and textures are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Step 5: Serve
Serve hot with melted butter, if desired. This step adds a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, making the dish even more enjoyable.
Expert Tips for Success
- Fully Cooked Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are fully cooked and tender before mashing. This helps to achieve a creamy and smooth texture in the mashed potatoes.
- Consistent Chopping: Chop the basil into uniform sizes for even distribution of flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: You can adjust the consistency of the mashed potatoes by adding more milk, cream, or butter to achieve your desired texture.
- Customize Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and seasonings to customize the flavors to your liking.
Variations and Customizations
Dietary Modifications
- Vegan: Use plant-based milk, cream, and butter to make this dish vegan-friendly. Ensure all other ingredients are certified vegan.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your ingredient labels to be sure.
- Low-Fat: Use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of butter for a lighter version.
Flavor Twists
- Garlic and Herb: Add minced garlic and other fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the cream mixture for an herbal and garlicky flavor.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesy and creamy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cream mixture for a spicy twist.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Herbed Broccoli Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the mashed potatoes are completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing
You can freeze the mashed potatoes for up to 2 months. Transfer the cooled mashed potatoes to a freezer-safe container and freeze until solid. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the mashed potatoes in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly. Add a splash of milk or cream to help retain moisture during reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This Herbed Broccoli Mashed Potatoes pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted Chicken: A classic pairing that’s perfect for a hearty and comforting meal.
- Grilled Steak: The rich and savory flavors of steak complement the creamy and herbal notes of the mashed potatoes.
- Vegetable Side Dishes: Pair the mashed potatoes with other vegetable side dishes like sautéed spinach, roasted carrots, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this Herbed Broccoli Mashed Potatoes, you might also like:
- Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes infused with garlic and fresh herbs.
- Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes: A lighter and healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes made with cauliflower.
- Loaded Baked Potato Mashed Potatoes: Rich and indulgent mashed potatoes loaded with bacon, cheese, and green onions.
Conclusion
Herbed Broccoli Mashed Potatoes is a delicious and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its creamy texture, fresh herbs, and the added goodness of broccoli, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a winner. Don’t forget to try out the variations and customizations to make it your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious Herbed Broccoli Mashed Potatoes!