Healthy Mashed Potatoes (easy + vegan)

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Creamy mashed potatoes that are dairy-free, vegan, and healthy! The perfect side to accompany any meal that the whole family will love!

It’s true—you don’t need butter or a butter alternative to make creamy mashed potatoes! Just use the cooking water or veggie broth to reach desired mashed potato consistency. The starch from the water makes it extra creamy.

Are Mashed Potatoes Healthy?

Potatoes on their own are incredibly healthy! They provide essential vitamins and minerals, are low in fat and high in fiber for a healthy gut. Many people assume that potatoes are empty calories, but to the contrary, they are actually an excellent source of nutrients!

It becomes unhealthy when we load it up with lots of butter, milk and cream. However, we can still achieve a creamy and tasty consistency without these, making mashed potatoes both healthy and delicious!

What you need

This is the best potato masher, but if you don't have one you can also use the back of a spoon. It will take some more arm muscles.

You'll also need a large stockpot to boil the potatoes in.

Best Type of Potato to Use

Russets or Yukon potatoes are best as they are starchier compared to waxy potatoes such as red-skinned potatoes. Both Russets and Yukon yield a creamy mashed potato but some recommend using a mixture of the two for best results.

In this recipe I chose to use Yukon because that's what was available at my store. Luckily this recipe is really flexible and you can use it with either!

Should You Peel Potatoes for Mashed Potatoes?

If you prefer creamier mashed potatoes, then peeling is best. I prefer mine on the chunky side. Plus, the skins of potatoes provide a lot of nutrients and we're making healthy mashed potatoes after all! So leave those skins on!

How to Make

Wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or soil, then slice into 1-inch cubes. Slicing before cooking ensures they cook more evenly and quickly.

Place in a pan and cover with cold water. Boil for 10-15 minutes until potatoes are soft and can easily be pierced by a fork.

When the potatoes are done, drain the water, leaving ½ - ¾ cup of water in the pot. Mash the potatoes with a masher or fork. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

The end result is healthy mashed potatoes that are lighter than traditional mashed potatoes, but taste just as good! The perfect side dish to any meal! It pairs so well with this delicious Lentil Loaf or on top of Shepherd's Pie.

Additional Topping Ideas

These mashed potatoes taste great on their own but here are some ideas to vary the flavors:

• chives
• nutritional yeast
• roasted garlic
• bacon bits (vegan)

Make Ahead

You can prep your mashed potatoes ahead of time in two ways.

First, you can cut your potatoes and place them in a bowl covered with cold water and refrigerate for up to 48 hours. Then simply drain and cook when ready.

Second, prepare the full mashed potato recipe and allow to cool completely before storing. Place in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat the day of.

How to reheat

Mashed potatoes can be reheated several ways.

• Place them in a casserole dish covered with foil in the oven at 375F for 30-40 minutes.
• Reheat in the microwave at half power for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of unsweetened non-dairy milk as needed.
• Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, adding non-dairy milk as needed. Stir frequently to avoid sticking and burning.
• In a slow cooker on low setting for a couple of hours.

What to Serve With

These mashed potatoes pair well with my Tahini Gravy, or use them on top of Shepherd's Pie, or along side a delicious piece of Lentil Loaf.

If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo on Instagram.

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