Cowboy Butter Mashed Potatoes

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Creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes meet a swirl of cowboy butter magic in this rich, savory comfort food upgrade. This version takes a familiar favorite and dials up the indulgence, thanks to a buttery blend packed with garlic, herbs, and a touch of heat. It’s the kind of side dish that doesn’t just sit on the plate—it steals the spotlight.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just craving a next-level side for steak night, Cowboy Butter Mashed Potatoes make an easy, unforgettable addition. One spoonful, and you’ll be hooked on the golden butter pooling into soft potato peaks, giving every bite a melt-in-your-mouth richness.

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What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

Yukon Gold potatoes are the ideal base for Cowboy Butter Mashed Potatoes. They strike the perfect balance between starchy and waxy, creating a naturally creamy texture with a buttery flavor that complements the rich sauce. If you’re in a pinch, Russets will work too—just make sure to mash them while they’re hot for the smoothest result.

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Ingredients for the Cowboy Butter Mashed Potatoes

Yukon Gold Potatoes: These are your foundation. Their creamy consistency and golden color are ideal for mashing.

Salted Butter: Use high-quality butter, since it’s the heart of the cowboy butter. It adds richness and helps carry the herbs and spices.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic builds a strong flavor base in the butter.

Fresh Parsley: Brightens the butter blend and balances the richness.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Adds just enough heat to make things interesting.

Lemon Juice: A small squeeze cuts through the richness and adds freshness.

Salt & Black Pepper: For seasoning the potatoes and rounding out the butter mix.

Whole Milk or Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess and softens the texture of the mash.

Optional: Thyme or Chives: Extra herbs to garnish or stir in, if you want to customize the flavor.

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How To Make the Cowboy Butter Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Peel and cut your Yukon Gold potatoes into chunks. Add them to a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the hot pot to steam off any excess moisture.

Step 2: Make the Cowboy Butter

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in minced garlic, chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to infuse the flavors, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Mash the Potatoes

Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the hot potatoes until smooth. Add warm milk or cream and half of the cowboy butter. Stir until creamy and well combined.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Spoon the mashed potatoes into a serving bowl. Drizzle the remaining cowboy butter on top. Garnish with extra parsley or herbs of choice. Serve warm with cracked black pepper over the top for a little extra bite.

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How to Serve and Store Cowboy Butter Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes are best served hot, right after drizzling with the cowboy butter. They’re perfect alongside grilled steaks, roasted chicken, or even as a savory topping for shepherd’s pie. The bold butter flavors pair especially well with smoky or grilled main dishes.

To store leftovers, let the mashed potatoes cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or more cowboy butter to revive their creamy texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance. Just reheat gently on the stovetop and stir in a bit of milk and cowboy butter to refresh.

What if I don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes?

You can use Russet potatoes, though they’re a bit more starchy. Just be sure to mash them thoroughly while they’re hot to avoid a gluey texture.

Can I use pre-made garlic butter instead?

Absolutely. It will simplify the recipe, but be sure to add lemon juice and fresh parsley to mimic the cowboy butter flavor profile.

Is the spice level adjustable?

Yes. Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your taste. You can also add cayenne for more heat or omit entirely for a milder version.

Can I freeze mashed potatoes?

Technically yes, but the texture can change once thawed. If freezing, use heavy cream instead of milk and avoid overmixing when reheating.

What dishes go best with Cowboy Butter Mashed Potatoes?

Try grilled ribeye, seared salmon, or even a hearty pot roast. The bold butter blend adds richness that pairs well with protein-heavy entrees.

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Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If you’re loving the comfort of Cowboy Butter Mashed Potatoes, there are plenty more dishes to round out your table.

You might also like the Air Fried Potato Wedges, perfect for a crispy contrast to mashed textures. Or explore the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup, which adds cozy richness and green goodness to your menu.

Looking for more casserole-style sides? Try the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole or the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti—both are satisfying and hearty.

And for another twist on potatoes, check out the Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe to compare techniques and flavors.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you try it, I’d love to hear what you thought. Did you play with the heat level? Try it with different herbs? Drop a comment below and let me know how you made it your own.

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