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If you are searching for a comforting dish that brings the best of two classic sides together, this Savory Stuffing-Topped Mashed Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes crowned with a perfectly golden, herb-laden stuffing topping that adds irresistible texture and flavor. This delightful combination turns simple ingredients into something truly spectacular, perfect for cozy family dinners or special gatherings that deserve a little extra love on the plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Savory Stuffing-Topped Mashed Potatoes Recipe is simple yet essential, playing a distinct role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the creamy potatoes to the seasoned stuffing, every component contributes to making this dish a standout.
- 2 pounds Peeled Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet): These potatoes provide a creamy texture when mashed, creating the perfect base.
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: For a creamy and rich flavor that makes the potatoes decadent.
- 1 cup Whole Milk: Adds moisture and creaminess to the mashed potatoes.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of both potatoes and stuffing.
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper: Delivers a subtle warmth and depth.
- 2 cups Stuffing Mix: Choose a seasoned mix for best flavor and texture in the topping.
- 1 cup Vegetable Broth: Moistens the stuffing, keeping it luscious and not dry.
- 0.5 cup Chopped Celery: Adds a satisfying crunch and fresh bite.
- 0.5 cup Chopped Onion: Provides depth and slightly sweet savoriness.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme: Enhances the stuffing with earthy, fragrant notes.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Sage: The classic herb that makes the stuffing unmistakably comforting.
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley: For a burst of bright, fresh color as garnish.
How to Make Savory Stuffing-Topped Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes Until Tender
Peeling and chopping your potatoes into even-sized chunks ensures they cook evenly. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt to season from the start. Bringing them to a boil and cooking until fork-tender will give you the perfect foundation for creamy mashed potatoes.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Celery
While the potatoes are cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Add your chopped onions and celery, stirring until they soften and release their wonderful aromas, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial for developing flavor in your stuffing topping.
Step 3: Build the Stuffing Mix
Add the dried thyme and sage to the softened vegetables, stirring them in so the herbs bloom and deepen the taste. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then, mix in the stuffing mix, stirring thoroughly. Take the pan off the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes so the stuffing absorbs the broth and flavors perfectly.
Step 4: Mash the Potatoes Creamy
Drain the cooked potatoes well and return them to the pot. Add the remaining butter, whole milk, salt, and black pepper. Mash everything until smooth and creamy, achieving that silky texture that pairs beautifully with the crunchy stuffing topping.
Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and spread the creamy mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom. Spoon the prepared stuffing mixture generously over the top, creating the iconic “stuffing-topped” look of this recipe.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Delicious
Cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking so the stuffing topping can turn a beautiful golden brown and develop a slight crisp that makes every bite irresistible.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes after baking—it’ll be hot and tempting! Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of vibrant green and a fresh herbal note. Then, dive into this comforting, show-stopping Savory Stuffing-Topped Mashed Potatoes Recipe.
How to Serve Savory Stuffing-Topped Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a touch of color and brightness, but you could also sprinkle a bit of shredded sharp cheddar or crispy fried onions on top for extra flavor and texture contrast. These little touches make the dish look as fabulous as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, juicy turkey or chicken, or even a hearty green salad to balance the richness. Because the mashed potatoes and stuffing provide so much flavor, lighter sides help create a well-rounded meal everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the mixture in individual ramekins or mini skillets, then bake and serve directly in them. This makes for a charming personal dish that’s perfect for holiday dinners or casual get-togethers. You could also layer this dish in a casserole with roasted veggies for a festive potluck star.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness while allowing the flavors to marry beautifully overnight.
Freezing
You can freeze this Savory Stuffing-Topped Mashed Potatoes Recipe, but for best results, freeze the mashed potatoes and stuffing separately. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor integrity.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to avoid drying out. You can also microwave individual servings, adding a splash of milk to keep the mashed potatoes creamy. The stuffing topping crisps back up nicely when reheated in the oven.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of stuffing mix?
Absolutely! While seasoned stuffing mixes work best for flavor, plain mixes or homemade stuffing blends can also be used. Just be mindful of seasoning adjustments depending on the mix you choose.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Peeling the potatoes ensures a smooth, creamy mash and a consistent texture. You could leave the skins on for a more rustic feel, but it will change the texture and appearance of the dish slightly.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, use vegetable broth as indicated, and substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives. Just be sure your stuffing mix doesn’t contain meat or animal products.
How do I achieve a crispy stuffing topping?
Make sure to bake uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. This exposure to the oven heat creates a nice golden crust on top while keeping the inside moist.
Can this recipe be doubled for a crowd?
Definitely! Just be sure to use a larger baking dish and increase baking time slightly to ensure everything heats through evenly and the stuffing topping crisps up beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Savory Stuffing-Topped Mashed Potatoes Recipe is pure comfort food magic. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you up in cozy, homey goodness with every bite. Whether you’re looking to elevate your dinner table or simply want to try something delightfully different with classic ingredients, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple. Don’t hesitate—grab those potatoes and stuffing mix, and dive in. Your taste buds will thank you for it!
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Savory Stuffing-Topped Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Savory Stuffing Topped Mashed Potatoes recipe combines creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with a flavorful, herb-seasoned stuffing topping baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting side dish perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family meals.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Mash
- 2 pounds Peeled Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1 cup Whole Milk
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
Stuffing Mix and Vegetables
- 2 cups Stuffing Mix (seasoned)
- 1 cup Vegetable Broth
- 0.5 cup Chopped Celery
- 0.5 cup Chopped Onion
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- 1 teaspoon Dried Sage
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes: Peel and chop the potatoes into even-sized chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Prepare Vegetables: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, stirring occasionally until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make Stuffing Mixture: Add dried thyme and sage to the vegetables, stir and cook for an additional minute to release the herbs’ flavors. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the stuffing mix until well combined. Remove from heat and let the mixture rest for 5 minutes to absorb moisture.
- Mash Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, whole milk, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth, creamy, and well combined.
- Assemble for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish, spread the mashed potatoes evenly in the dish, then spoon the stuffing mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the stuffing topping turns golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Yukon Gold potatoes create a creamier texture, but Russet potatoes work well, too.
- Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Seasoned stuffing mix adds more flavor; feel free to use your favorite brand.
- For a richer mash, warm the milk before adding to the potatoes.
- This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated; reheat covered tightly in the oven before serving.
