Creamed Potatoes

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There’s something incredibly nostalgic about a bowl of warm, creamy potatoes. It’s a dish that instantly reminds me of home-cooked meals, family gatherings, and the comforting embrace of rich, velvety sauce coating tender potatoes. Whether served as a side dish for a holiday feast or enjoyed on a cozy evening, creamed potatoes bring a sense of warmth and satisfaction that few dishes can match.

I love how simple yet decadent this recipe is—just a few basic ingredients come together to create something truly special. The smooth, buttery sauce perfectly complements the soft, starchy potatoes, while a sprinkle of seasoning adds just the right amount of flavor. If you’re a fan of classic comfort food, this dish is one you’ll want to make again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamed Potatoes Recipe

• Creamy and comforting – It’s the ultimate side dish that feels indulgent but is easy to make.
• Simple ingredients – You likely already have everything you need in your kitchen.
• Pairs with everything – From roasted meats to grilled veggies, it’s a versatile dish.
• Great for holidays or everyday meals – It’s just as perfect for a weeknight dinner as it is for Thanksgiving.
• Easily customizable – Add cheese, herbs, or veggies for a personal touch.

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What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

The type of potato you use makes a big difference in the texture of creamed potatoes. I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Yukon Golds have a naturally creamy texture and a buttery flavor that works beautifully in this dish. Russet potatoes, on the other hand, break down more during cooking, resulting in an ultra-soft and fluffy consistency. If you prefer a firmer bite, red potatoes are another good option since they hold their shape well.

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Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about creamed potatoes is how adaptable they are. If you’re missing an ingredient or want to change things up, here are some simple swaps:

• Milk Alternatives – Instead of whole milk, try heavy cream for extra richness or half-and-half for a balance of creaminess. For a dairy-free version, almond or oat milk works well.
• Thickening Agents – Traditional roux made with flour and butter works best, but you can also use cornstarch mixed with water if you’re gluten-free.
• Seasonings – Classic salt and pepper are a must, but adding garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor.
• Vegetable Additions – Green peas, carrots, or even corn add color and texture to the dish.
• Cheese Lovers’ Twist – Stir in shredded cheddar, parmesan, or even cream cheese for an extra indulgent version.

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Ingredients for This Creamed Potatoes Recipe

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in creating that rich, velvety texture and delicious flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Potatoes – The star of the dish! Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for a creamy consistency.
• Butter – Adds richness and enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
• Flour – Used to create a roux, which thickens the creamy sauce and helps it coat the potatoes beautifully.
• Milk – The base of the sauce, giving it a smooth and luscious texture. Whole milk is ideal, but you can use alternatives.
• Heavy Cream (optional) – If you want an extra indulgent and rich sauce, a splash of heavy cream makes a big difference.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
• Garlic Powder (optional) – Adds a subtle depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish) – A pop of color and freshness to brighten up the dish.
• Green Peas (optional) – A classic addition that adds color and a hint of sweetness to the potatoes.

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Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into evenly sized cubes. This ensures they cook at the same rate and absorb the creamy sauce evenly. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Let them cook until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes, then drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add flour, whisking constantly to create a smooth roux. Let it cook for about a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce. If using heavy cream, stir it in for extra richness.

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Step 3: Season and Combine

Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency, add the cooked potatoes to the skillet. Gently stir to coat them in the creamy sauce, ensuring they are evenly covered. If adding green peas, stir them in now and let everything simmer for a couple of minutes.

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Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Once the potatoes are well coated in the sauce, remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy goodness!

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How Long to Cook Creamed Potatoes

Cooking times for creamed potatoes depend on the type of potato and the consistency you prefer. Here’s a general guideline:

• Boiling the potatoes – 10-15 minutes until fork-tender. Avoid overcooking, or they’ll become too soft.
• Making the sauce – 5 minutes to create a smooth, thick consistency.
• Simmering everything together – 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and coat the potatoes evenly.

In total, you can have this dish ready in about 20-25 minutes!

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Tips for Perfect Creamed Potatoes

Want to make the best creamed potatoes every time? Keep these tips in mind:

• Use the right potatoes – Yukon Golds give a naturally creamy texture, while Russets break down for an ultra-soft result.
• Don’t overcook the potatoes – Cook them just until fork-tender to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Whisk the sauce constantly – This prevents lumps and ensures a silky smooth texture.
• Adjust the thickness – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk; if too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
• Season well – A pinch of salt and pepper goes a long way in bringing out the flavors.
• Add cheese for extra richness – Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan for an indulgent twist.
• Garnish before serving – Fresh herbs or a sprinkle of black pepper add a nice finishing touch.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though creamed potatoes are simple to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to avoid:

• Overcooking the potatoes – If they’re too soft, they’ll fall apart in the sauce instead of holding their shape.
• Not draining the potatoes properly – Excess water can make the sauce runny and dilute the flavor.
• Skipping the roux step – The flour-butter mixture is essential for thickening the sauce properly.
• Adding milk too quickly – Pouring it in slowly while whisking prevents lumps from forming.
• Using low-fat milk only – While possible, a little heavy cream or butter helps maintain the rich, velvety texture.
• Not seasoning enough – Potatoes absorb flavor, so be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Letting the sauce get too thick – If it thickens too much, a splash of milk can bring it back to the right consistency.
• Forgetting to stir – Constant stirring ensures a smooth sauce without clumps.

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What to Serve With Creamed Potatoes?

Creamed potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with many meals. Here are eight great options:

1. Roasted Chicken

The creamy potatoes balance the crispy skin and juicy texture of a roasted whole chicken.

2. Grilled Steak

A tender, flavorful steak with a side of creamy potatoes makes for a satisfying meal.

3. Baked Ham

The slight sweetness of ham complements the rich and buttery potatoes beautifully.

4. Fried Pork Chops

Crispy pork chops with a side of creamed potatoes create a comforting, homestyle dinner.

5. Meatloaf

A classic comfort food pairing—moist, flavorful meatloaf alongside creamy, savory potatoes.

6. Sautéed Green Beans

A fresh, slightly crunchy side adds contrast to the soft and creamy texture of the potatoes.

7. BBQ Ribs

Smoky, tangy ribs go perfectly with the creamy, mild flavors of this potato dish.

8. Garlic Butter Shrimp

The garlicky, buttery shrimp add a seafood twist that pairs surprisingly well with creamed potatoes.

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Storage Instructions

Creamed potatoes store well, making them a great make-ahead dish. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Freezing – While possible, freezing isn’t ideal because the dairy-based sauce may separate. If you do freeze them, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and reheat slowly while stirring to restore the creamy texture.
• Make-ahead tip – If preparing ahead, cook the potatoes and sauce separately, then combine and heat before serving for the best consistency.

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Estimated Nutrition

The following values are approximate per 1 serving (about 1 cup):

• Calories: ~250-300 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Protein: ~5g
• Fat: ~12g
• Saturated Fat: ~7g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~3g
• Sodium: ~250mg

For a lighter version, you can use lower-fat milk and reduce the butter amount.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make creamed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to 2 days in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

2. What’s the best way to reheat creamed potatoes?

Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the smooth consistency.

3. Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes! Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are best for a creamy texture, but red potatoes work well if you prefer firmer pieces that hold their shape.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with dairy-free margarine and use almond, oat, or coconut milk instead of regular milk. Keep in mind that the flavor may slightly change.

5. How do I make this dish even richer?

For extra richness, stir in a bit of heavy cream, cream cheese, or shredded cheese before serving.

6. Can I add other ingredients to this dish?

Yes! Many people enjoy adding green peas, cooked bacon, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs for extra flavor and texture.

7. What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

If too thick, add a little milk or broth to thin it out. If too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes, or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken.

8. Is this the same as mashed potatoes?

Not quite! Mashed potatoes are whipped until smooth, while creamed potatoes have a thick, creamy sauce coating the potato chunks, giving them a different texture and flavor.

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Conclusion

Creamed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether served at a holiday feast or alongside a weeknight meal, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. If you loved this recipe, save it on Pinterest and share it with your family and friends. They’ll thank you for it!

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