Mashed potatoes are one of those comfort foods that everyone loves. They’re creamy, smooth, and just perfect on their own. But what if you could make them even better? Adding tasty toppings to your mashed potatoes can turn a simple side dish into something special. Whether you want to keep it classic or try something new, here are ten delicious toppings for mashed potatoes that will take your meal to the next level.
Crispy Bacon Bits
Who doesn’t love bacon? Adding crispy bacon bits to your mashed potatoes gives them a savory crunch that’s absolutely irresistible. The salty and smoky flavor of bacon pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the potatoes. You can use store-bought bacon bits or cook your own bacon, crumble it up, and sprinkle it on top. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheese lovers, this one’s for you! Melted cheddar cheese on top of mashed potatoes is a match made in heaven. The sharp, rich flavor of the cheese melts into the potatoes, creating a gooey, cheesy delight. You can sprinkle shredded cheddar on top and let it melt in the heat of the potatoes, or you can mix it in while mashing the potatoes for a cheesy surprise in every bite.
Sour Cream and Chives
If you’re a fan of baked potatoes, you’ve probably enjoyed them topped with sour cream and chives. Why not bring that classic combo to your mashed potatoes? The tangy taste of sour cream adds a nice contrast to the smooth potatoes, while the fresh, mild onion flavor of the chives adds a burst of freshness. It’s a topping that’s both simple and delicious.
Garlic Butter
Garlic lovers, rejoice! Garlic butter is an easy way to add rich, savory flavor to your mashed potatoes. You can make garlic butter by melting some butter and mixing in minced garlic. Pour this mixture over your mashed potatoes, and you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so good. The butter adds richness, and the garlic adds a punch of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Gravy
Gravy is a classic topping for mashed potatoes, and for good reason. It adds moisture, flavor, and a touch of comfort to the dish. Whether you prefer beef, chicken, or vegetarian gravy, pouring it over your mashed potatoes makes them even more satisfying. It’s like a warm hug in food form, making your meal feel complete.
Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions bring a sweet and savory flavor that complements the creamy mashed potatoes beautifully. The onions are cooked slowly until they turn golden brown and sweet, releasing their natural sugars. When you add them to your mashed potatoes, you get a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and gourmet. It’s a topping that’s sure to impress your guests.
Sauteed Mushrooms
Mushrooms add a hearty, earthy flavor to mashed potatoes. Sauteed mushrooms, especially when cooked in butter and garlic, bring out a rich, meaty taste that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the potatoes. They’re a great topping if you want to add a bit of elegance to your dish. Plus, they add a nice texture contrast, making each bite more interesting.
Crispy Fried Onions
If you like a bit of crunch with your mashed potatoes, crispy fried onions are the way to go. These golden, crunchy onions add a satisfying texture that contrasts nicely with the smooth potatoes. You can buy them pre-made, or you can make your own by thinly slicing onions, coating them in flour, and frying them until they’re crispy. It’s a topping that’s fun and delicious.
Pesto
Pesto is a vibrant, herby topping that can give your mashed potatoes a fresh, zesty twist. Made from basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, pesto adds a burst of flavor that’s both bold and bright. It’s a great way to add some green to your meal, and it pairs surprisingly well with the creamy potatoes. Just drizzle it on top, and enjoy the flavor explosion.
Herbed Cream Cheese
For a rich and creamy topping with a bit of a twist, try herbed cream cheese. You can make it by mixing softened cream cheese with your favorite herbs, like parsley, dill, or chives. Spread this on top of your mashed potatoes, and you’ll get a smooth, creamy topping with a burst of herbaceous flavor. It’s like a more luxurious version of sour cream and chives, and it’s sure to be a hit.
Conclusion
Mashed potatoes are a versatile dish that can be taken to new heights with the right toppings. Whether you prefer classic flavors like gravy and cheddar cheese or want to try something new like pesto or herbed cream cheese, there’s a topping for everyone. The best part is that these toppings are easy to make and can turn a simple bowl of mashed potatoes into a delicious and memorable dish. So, next time you make mashed potatoes, don’t be afraid to get creative and try out these tasty toppings!
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese on my mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can use any type of cheese you like! Cheddar is popular, but you can also try Parmesan, mozzarella, or blue cheese for different flavors.
What’s the best way to make garlic butter?
To make garlic butter, simply melt butter in a pan and add minced garlic. Cook until the garlic is fragrant, and then pour it over your mashed potatoes.
Can I use store-bought pesto as a topping?
Yes, store-bought pesto works great as a topping. If you prefer homemade, you can easily make it with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
How can I make my mashed potatoes extra creamy?
To make your mashed potatoes extra creamy, use warm milk or cream and plenty of butter. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness.
Are there any vegetarian toppings for mashed potatoes?
Yes, many toppings like sauteed mushrooms, caramelized onions, pesto, and herbed cream cheese are vegetarian-friendly and add lots of flavor.