If you want a change from mashed potatoes try these perfect creamed potatoes. All the richness of mashed potatoes (there are butter and milk n here!) but there’s also texture, a bit of spice and bright herbs.
Simply boil cubed potatoes, make a creamy white sauce and combine the two for a side that works for a weeknight meal with breaded mustard and sage pork cutlets or a dinner party-worthy coffee-rubbed ribeye steak.
Ingredients for Creamed Potatoes
- Potatoes:Â Choose a waxy potato that will hold its shape after cooking.
- Butter:Â Potatoes and butter? Come on, there’s never been a better match.
- Flour:Â As a traditional thickener, flour gives your sauce a velvety texture for the perfect creamed potatoes.
- Milk:Â Use what you have, but whole milk gives the dish a richer taste.
- Paprika:Â This pretty spice brings a subtle earthy, peppery note.
- Fresh Parsley: Minced parsley is a classic topper for potatoes. It adds a fresh, bright flavor and a pretty green finish.
Directions
Step 1: Cook the potatoes and sauce
In a large saucepan, add the potatoes and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook, covered, until tender, 10 to 15 minutes.
In a smaller saucepan, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour, salt and pepper. Then, slowly whisk in the milk and bring the sauce to a boil until thick, about two minutes.
Step 2: Drain, sauce and serve
Thoroughly drain the potatoes and place them in a large serving bowl. Add the sauce and gently stir. Sprinkle with paprika and parsley.
Recipe Variations for Creamed Potatoes
- Add bacon:Â Stir cooked, diced bacon into the finished dish for extra smokiness and umami flavor.
- Change up the fresh herb finish:Â Parsley is a classic, but tender tarragon is also a great match for potatoes.
- Spice it up: Add a little cayenne with the paprika, or even stir in some finely chopped fresh jalapenos.
Can you make creamed potatoes ahead of time?
Creamed potatoes are best enjoyed right away. If you need to make them ahead of time, store the potatoes and sauce separately. When it’s time to cook, reheat both and stir them together. Add paprika and parsley just before serving.
Creamed Recipe Tips
Are creamed potatoes the same as mashed potatoes?
While the two dishes have similar ingredients, creamed potatoes are cooked diced potatoes with sauce. It has the same rich flavor as mashed potatoes but with more texture.
What if I don’t have any paprika or fresh parsley?
Spices and herbs add complexity to the finished dish, but just adding salt and pepper would still be delicious. Give your favorite seasoning blend a try, or add herbs like fresh thyme and tarragon.
Does it matter what type of potato I use?
Yes. A waxy potato, like Red Bliss, is perfect for creamed potatoes. They cook up tender but hold their shape when tossed with the sauce.
