Name: Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter; 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other non-dairy milk), warmed; 3 cloves garlic, minced (optional); 1 teaspoon sea salt (plus more to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Why You’ll Love Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Dairy-free mashed potatoes are incredibly creamy without using butter or cream. This makes them a great option for those who need or want to avoid dairy. The recipe is flexible and easy to customize, making it perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or casual weeknight meals. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free, allergy-friendly, and ready in about 30 minutes!

Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe is that it uses simple, accessible ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Potatoes (Yukon gold or russet work best)
Olive oil or dairy-free butter
Unsweetened almond milk or another dairy-free milk (such as oat milk or soy milk)
Garlic (optional, for added flavor)
Salt and black pepper

Directions

Follow these easy steps for creamy, dairy-free mashed potatoes:

Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into evenly sized chunks. This helps them cook evenly.
Boil the Potatoes: Place the potato chunks into a large pot and cover them with cold, salted water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let the potatoes simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
Drain and Dry: Once the potatoes are soft, drain them well in a colander. Return the drained potatoes to the pot and let them sit for a minute to allow any excess moisture to evaporate.
Mash the Potatoes: Add your olive oil or dairy-free butter to the potatoes and mash them using a potato masher or an electric mixer. Gradually pour in the dairy-free milk as you mash to achieve your desired consistency.
Season and Serve: Stir in garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. You can adjust the seasoning to your preference. Serve the mashed potatoes warm, and if you’d like, drizzle some extra olive oil on top or garnish with fresh herbs.

Variations

The great thing about mashed potatoes is how customizable they are. Here are a few ideas for variations:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For a savory twist, roast garlic in the oven and mash it into the potatoes. This adds a rich depth of flavor.
Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives can elevate the flavor profile of your mashed potatoes.
Extra Creamy: For a richer, more luxurious texture, try using canned coconut milk or cashew milk.
Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Stir in dairy-free cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions for an extra flavor boost.
Olive Oil and Sea Salt: Keep it simple with high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of extra dairy-free milk to restore their creaminess. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring between each round to ensure even heating. For longer storage, freeze the mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make the mashed potatoes a day ahead. Just store them in the refrigerator and reheat them with a little extra dairy-free milk when you’re ready to serve.

What Type of Potatoes Work Best?

Yukon gold potatoes tend to create a naturally creamy texture, while russet potatoes will result in a fluffier mashed potato. Both work well in this recipe.

Can I Use Another Plant-Based Milk?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any unsweetened, unflavored dairy-free milk that you like. Oat milk, soy milk, or cashew milk are all great options.

How Do I Avoid Gummy Mashed Potatoes?

To avoid a gummy texture, don’t overmix the potatoes, especially if using an electric mixer. Overworking the potatoes releases too much starch, which can make them gluey.

Do I Need to Peel the Potatoes?

Peeling the potatoes is optional. Leaving the skins on gives the mashed potatoes a more rustic texture and adds extra nutrients. If you prefer a smoother consistency, feel free to peel them.

Can I Add Vegan Butter Instead of Olive Oil?

Yes, you can use vegan butter for a more traditional buttery flavor. It will work perfectly in this recipe and still keep it dairy-free.

How Can I Make the Mashed Potatoes Extra Smooth?

For the smoothest mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer instead of a masher. This will ensure there are no lumps and the texture is silky.

Are These Mashed Potatoes Gluten-Free?

Yes, as long as all the ingredients are certified gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I Double This Recipe for a Larger Group?

Definitely! You can double the ingredients for a larger crowd. Just be sure to use a bigger pot to accommodate the extra potatoes.

What Can I Serve with Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes?

These mashed potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes. Try them with roasted vegetables, plant-based roasts, grilled proteins, or hearty stews.

Conclusion

Dairy-free mashed potatoes are a wonderful, creamy alternative to the classic recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can create a dish that’s perfect for anyone avoiding dairy. Whether you’re preparing a holiday meal or a simple family dinner, this recipe will leave you with perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes that everyone can enjoy.