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Creamy Brown Butter Sage Mashed Potato Casserole

brown butter sage mashed potato casserole - featured image

A creamy, fragrant mashed potato casserole featuring nutty brown butter and fresh sage, perfect for holidays and cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds russet potatoes (about 1.4 kg)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (85 g)
  • 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped plus extra whole leaves for garnish
  • 1 cup whole milk (240 ml), warmed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (120 ml), warmed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste (start with 1 teaspoon)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese (100 g), optional

Instructions

  1. Peel about 3 pounds (1.4 kg) of russet potatoes and cut into roughly 1½-inch (4 cm) chunks.
  2. Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to simmer. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. While potatoes cook, melt 6 tablespoons (85 g) of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until butter foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves to crisp slightly.
  4. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot or a large bowl. Mash with a ricer or potato masher until mostly smooth. Add minced garlic while potatoes are still warm.
  5. Warm 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk and 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave.
  6. Slowly add the browned butter and sage mixture to the mashed potatoes, stirring gently. Pour in the warm milk and cream mixture little by little, folding it in to reach desired creamy consistency. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. If using, fold in 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp white cheddar cheese.
  8. Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) oven-safe casserole dish. Place a few whole sage leaves on top for garnish.
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until edges are golden and top looks set and slightly crispy.

Notes

Watch the butter carefully when browning to avoid burning. Warm the milk and cream before adding to potatoes to keep them silky. Avoid overmixing potatoes to maintain texture. If casserole seems dry after baking, add a splash of warm milk. Fresh sage is essential for best flavor; dried sage won’t provide the same aroma.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potato casserole, brown butter, sage, holiday side dish, creamy mashed potatoes, easy casserole, comfort food