Tired of the same old mashed potatoes? Ready to elevate your side dish game to a whole new level of delicious? Then get ready to be amazed by these Ranch Dressing Mashed Potatoes! This recipe takes the classic comfort food and adds a zesty, creamy twist that will leave everyone wanting more. It’s surprisingly easy, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe is a fantastic example of transforming simple ingredients into a truly unforgettable dish. Consider it a quick dinner idea that packs a flavor punch!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing powder (or more, to taste)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Chopped chives or green onions for garnish
Instructions:
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Boil the Potatoes: Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
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Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, and sour cream. Mash until smooth and creamy. You can use a potato masher, electric mixer, or even a fork, depending on your desired texture.
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Incorporate Ranch: Gradually whisk in the ranch dressing powder until fully incorporated and the desired level of ranch flavor is achieved. Start with 1/4 cup and add more if you prefer a stronger ranch taste.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions, if desired. Serve immediately alongside your favorite main course. These mashed potatoes are a fantastic accompaniment to roasted chicken, steak, or even grilled fish.
Cooking Tips for Perfectly Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
- Use the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes due to their fluffy texture.
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will become gummy. Check for doneness frequently.
- Use warm milk and butter: This will help create a smoother, creamier texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more salt, pepper, or ranch powder to suit your taste preferences.
- Keep warm: If you need to keep the mashed potatoes warm before serving, place them in a slow cooker on low or in a warm oven (around 200°F).
Variations:
- Garlic Ranch: Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the mashed potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
- Bacon Ranch: Crumble cooked bacon and stir it into the mashed potatoes for a salty, savory twist.
- Cheesy Ranch: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy, comforting side dish.
- Spicy Ranch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Always consult a nutrition calculator for more precise information.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Ranch Dressing Mashed Potatoes recipe is a simple yet delicious way to elevate your next meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!