🥔 What To Serve With Mashed Potatoes: 40 BEST Side Dishes! 🥔

Mashed potatoes are a popular side dish that can be utilized with almost every meal. This blog post will discuss some of our favorite recipes to answer a question that many home cooks often ask: “what to serve with mashed potatoes?”
 
But what should you serve them with?
  
So, whether you are looking for a new recipe to try or need some advice on what you can serve to help make your mashed potatoes even better, we have you covered.
 
Mashed potatoes are classic comfort food.
 
They are made by boiling potatoes until they are soft, then mashing them with butter, milk, and salt to taste.
 
Some add other ingredients like garlic, cheese, or sour cream.
 
The key to making the quintessential mashed potatoes is to use starchy varieties of potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold.
 
These types of potatoes break down more quickly and become fluffy when mashed.
 
However, you can use any potato you prefer.
 
If you’re looking for a suitable way to enjoy your mashed potatoes, read on for some of our favorite recipes.
 
And don’t miss #17 on this list – it might just become your new go-to!

1. Roasted Turkey

A Roasted Turkey is not complete without a heaping helping of mashed potatoes on the side.
 
The creamy, smooth potatoes are a terrific complement to the juicy, succulent turkey.
 
The two dishes belong together, like peanut butter and jelly or cookies and milk.
 
And just like those other classic combos, a Roasted Turkey with mashed potatoes is sure to please everyone at the table.

2. Corned Beef

When it comes to classic comfort food, it doesn’t get much more fantastic than Corned Beef and mashed potatoes.
 
The corned beef’s juicy flavor pairs with the creamy, dreamy texture of the potatoes, creating a simply irresistible dish.
 
Best of all, this dish is easy to make, and you can enjoy this any time of year.

3. Fried Chicken

Whether you opt for a classic Southern-style fried chicken or something a little more adventurous, like Korean-style fried chicken, there’s a mashed potato recipe to match.
 
You can keep it simple with some butter and milk or go all out with cheesy garlic mashed potatoes.
 
However you enjoy it, this is one dish that is sure to leave your palate and tummy satisfied.

4. Southern Fried Catfish

There’s just something about Southern Fried Catfish that makes it an excellent dish to devour.
 
Maybe it’s the crispy golden batter or the juicy, flaky fish inside.
 
Or maybe it’s that it goes well with a big heaping helping of mashed potatoes.
 
Whatever the reason, there’s no denying that Southern Fried Catfish is one of the most sublime dishes.
 
And when you’re looking for a hearty meal that will stick to your ribs, there’s nothing better than Southern Fried Catfish and mashed potatoes.

5. Chicken Cordon Bleu

Who doesn’t love Chicken Cordon Bleu?
 
This beloved French dish is not only sensational, but it also goes great with mashed potatoes.
 
The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crispy breadcrumbs is irresistible. 
 
The mashed potatoes provide an impeccable cushion for all that savory goodness.

6. Beef Wellington

There are a lot of dishes that go great with mashed potatoes.
 
Beef Wellington is one of them.
 
The tasty flavors of the beef pair very well with the velvety potatoes.
 
Plus, the crispy pastry crust provides a nice contrast in texture.
 
Whether you’re making a traditional English dish or just looking for a refreshing way to enjoy some mashed potatoes, pairing them with Beef Wellington is always a winning combination.

7. Southern Pork BBQ

The salty pork pairs splendidly with the slightly sweet sauce, and the smooth potatoes provide a pleasing contrast to the rich meat.
 
Plus, the starchy potatoes help to absorb some of the sauce, making each bite even more flavorful.
 
So next time you fire up the grill, don’t forget the mashed potatoes – they might be the best part of the meal.

8. Garlic Butter Pork Chops

The rich, flavorful sauce pairs with mashed potatoes, giving the dish a homey feel.
 
And what could be more pleasant than a hearty plate of pork and potatoes?
 
The earthy taste of garlic complements the succulent pork, while the butter adds a touch of richness.
 
The dish is hassle-free to whip up yet feels special enough for a weekend dinner party.

9. Meatballs

One of the most traditional ways to eat Meatballs is with mashed potatoes.
 
The creamy potatoes provide a mouthwatering canvas for the savory Meatballs, and the two dishes come together to create a satisfying and filling meal.
 
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a consoling winter dish, Meatballs and mashed potatoes are a timeless combination sure to please everyone at the table.

10. Pan-Seared Steak With Garlic Butter

This classic dish is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
 
The succulent steak is cooked to your preferred style and paired with the rich and creamy garlic butter.
 
The mashed potatoes are fluffy and flavorful, making them a superb side dish.
 
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or want to enjoy a decadent meal, Pan-Seared Steak with Garlic Butter and mashed potatoes is sure to hit the spot.

11. Meatloaf

Meatloaf and mashed potatoes have been a staple of American cuisine for generations, and there’s a good reason why.
 
The rich, savory flavors of Meatloaf go precisely with mashed potatoes’ creamy taste.
 
And thanks to their complementary textures, they make for a truly rewarding meal.

12. Classic Fish Cakes

The combination of soft, fluffy potatoes and crispy, fried fish is inviting.
 
Plus, the two dishes complement each other in terms of texture and flavor.
 
The velvety smooth potatoes provide a stellar backdrop for the tasty Fish Cakes. 
 
At the same time, the fried coating adds just the right amount of crunch.

13. Bratwurst In Beer & Onions

There’s something about Bratwurst In Beer and Onions that makes it a pleasing partner for mashed potatoes.
 
Maybe it’s the juicy, slightly spicy flavor of the sausage or the way the onions add a touch of sweetness to the dish.
 
Whatever the reason, this classic combination is sure to please any hungry crowd.

14. Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a Russian dish that consists of beef and mushrooms in a creamy sauce.
 
One food that everyone can agree on fits this classic dish: mashed potatoes.
 
The creamy potatoes contrast the rich beef and mushrooms, and their starchy goodness helps to soak up all of the scrumptious sauce.
 
Plus, mashed potatoes are plain comfort food, and who doesn’t want a little comfort with their beef stroganoff?
 
So the next time you’re debating what to serve with this Russian dish, don’t forget the mashed potatoes.
 
They form an irresistible match.

15. Pan-Seared Filet Mignon With Herb Butter

This dish is a beautiful date night meal.
 
The filet mignon is pan-seared to perfection and then topped with a dollop of herb butter.
 
It’s rich, it’s decadent, and it’s an incredible culinary experience.
 
The mashed potatoes are a suitable sidekick to this dish.
 
They’re creamy and smooth, soaking up all the flavors of the filet mignon and herb butter.
 
This meal is sure to impress your date and leave you feeling content.

16. Roasted Chicken

Roasted Chicken and mashed potatoes have a long history of being served together, and there’s a good reason for that.
 
The sublime flavor of Roasted Chicken pairs well with the mellow taste of mashed potatoes.
 
In other words, they are meant to be eaten together.
 
So the next time you’re looking for a comforting meal, reach for some Roasted Chicken and mashed potatoes—your belly won’t regret it.

17. Salisbury Steak

Salisbury Steak fits the flavor profile of fluffy mashed potatoes.
 
The exquisite flavor of the steak complements the buttery flavor of the potatoes nicely, and the two textures fit each other to a tee.
 
You can top your Salisbury Steak with a dollop of gravy or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a hint of elegance.
 
Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Salisbury Steak and mashed potatoes is a dish that will have diners asking for seconds.

18. Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon is a French dish consisting of beef stewed in red wine with carrots, onions, and mushrooms.
 
It’s a heartwarming and tummy-filling meal that’s great for a cold winter day.
 
And what goes better with Beef Bourguignon than mashed potatoes?
 
They’re velvety and fit the rich flavor of the beef.
 
So next time you plan a dinner party, don’t forget to include Beef Bourguignon and mashed potatoes on your menu.
 
Your guests will thank you!

19. Grilled Lamb Chops

Grilled Lamb Chops are a blissful way to dress up a simple mashed potato dish.
 
The rich flavor of the lamb pairs nicely with the creamy potatoes, and the grill adds an excellent smoky depth of flavor.
 
To make this dish more memorable, try using herb-infused lamb chops.
 
Simply rub the chops with a mixture of your favorite herbs before grilling.
 
Thyme, rosemary, and garlic all work well with lamb.

20. Pot Pork Tenderloin

What’s better than a big ol’ pork tenderloin straight from the Crock-Pot?
 
That’s right, nothing.
 
But why stop there?
 
This pot of pork goodness deserves to be served with a heaping helping of mashed potatoes.
 
The smooth, buttery potatoes provide a yummy canvas for the divine pork, and the combination of textures is simply to die for.

21. Roast Beef

This classic comfort food is a superb way to fill your tummy up on any given day.

​​The beef is tender and juicy, and the potatoes are smooth and creamy.

Plus, there’s nothing quite like homemade gravy to top it all off.

Whether you’re serving it for Sunday dinner or a weekday meal, Roast Beef and mashed potatoes is always a hit.

22. The Best Grilled Chicken

When grilled chicken and mashed potatoes are served on the same table, guests are surely in for a treat.

With its smoky flavor, the savory grilled chicken works well with the creamy mashed potatoes, creating a flavor profile that will pleasantly linger on your mind for days to come.

Ingredients include: Skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, thyme, oregano, and garlic.

23. Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders

Fried chicken tenders, in all their crunchy glory, work nicely with delicate mashed potatoes due to the sublime contrast in texture and taste.

The fried chicken tenders, with their crisp exterior and warm, tender meat inside, makes for a befitting partner to the buttery potatoes, resulting in a combination that you will crave over and over again.

Ingredients include: Chicken tenders, flour, salt, egg, vegetable oil, and black pepper.

24. Best Ever Pork Roast And Sauerkraut

This combination pairs up in a way that is utterly divine. 

The succulent flavors of the pork roast meld with the tangy notes of the sauerkraut. 

The mashed potatoes play a nice role when served with this indulgent dish as their soft texture balances out the robust flavors of the protein.

Ingredients include: Pork roast, sauerkraut, paprika, brown sugar, and salt.

25. Beef Stew

The tender chunks of beef, simmering in a rich and hearty broth with a medley of vegetables, are a match for the velvety texture of mashed potatoes. 

What makes these two dishes blend seamlessly is the polarity of flavors: the rich flavor of the beef and the broth is evened out by the subtle goodness of the mashed potatoes.

Ingredients include: Beef, celery, carrots, paprika, and potatoes.

26. Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham

Brown Sugar Mustard Glazed Ham and mashed potatoes make such a delightful combination for several reasons. 

The sweetness of the brown sugar glaze brings a nice balance to the savory and juicy ham, enhancing the flavors of the dish. 

The soft and creamy mashed potatoes not only contrast wonderfully with the rich taste of the ham but also absorb the tangy mustard flavor from the glaze.

Ingredients include: Cooked ham, butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and honey.

Dr Pepper Glazed Ham

27. Hot Honey Mustard Chicken

The savory combination of Hot Honey Mustard Chicken and mashed potatoes is bound to leave your taste buds craving for more. 

This duo offers a balance between the succulent, juicy chicken coated with a tangy, spicy honey mustard glaze and the fluffy mashed potatoes. 

The rich flavor of the potatoes helps to mellow down the heat from the glaze while at the same time complementing the zesty taste of the dish. 

Ingredients include: Chicken thighs, Dijon mustard, hot honey, ginger paste, and garlic.

28. Sausages And Onion Gravy

The flavor-packed sausages and onion gravy together make for an appetizing explosion, while the mashed potatoes serve as a comforting base.

The gentle texture of the mashed potatoes helps to mellow out the rich, savory flavors of the onion-enhanced gravy and well-seasoned sausages. 

Ingredients include: Sausages, onion, garlic, red wine, and flour.

29. Roasted Lemon-Thyme Turkey With Lemon Sauce

One might wonder how to best complement this savory dish, and the answer can be found in the delight that is mashed potatoes. 

When paired together, the soft texture of mashed potatoes skillfully balances the tangy hints of the lemon sauce without overpowering the delicate taste of the roast turkey. 

Ingredients include: Turkey, lemon, thyme, salt, and pepper.

30. Oven Roasted Crispy Pork Belly

With its blend of textures and flavors, this pairing offers a wholesome and satisfying dining experience for all. 

The tender, juicy pork belly, renowned for its delectable layers of meat and fat, is contrasted by the light and fluffy mashed potatoes. 

The oven-roasting technique locks in the rich flavor and crispy texture of the pork belly, making it a match for the creamy potatoes. 

Ingredients include: Pork belly, salt, pepper, and sugar.

31. Slow-Cooked Lamb Shoulder With Rosemary, Garlic & Honey

Slow-Cooked Lamb Shoulder With Rosemary, Garlic & Honey is a heavenly combination of flavors that creates a lip-smacking dish perfect for any occasion.

Mashed potatoes make for an ideal companion to this sublime lamb dish. 

The velvety texture of the potatoes complements the tender, flavorful meat and soaks up the juices and flavors from the slow-cooked lamb. 

Moreover, the simplicity and comfort of the mashed potatoes allow the star of the dish, the lamb shoulder, to truly shine.

Ingredients include: Lamb shoulder, garlic, honey, rosemary, and smoked paprika.

32. The Best Classic Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is a delectable combination of savory minced meat and flavorful vegetables, all brought together in a rich, mouthwatering sauce. 

The addition of mashed potatoes complements the pie’s hearty filling, as their velvety texture balances the robust flavors of the meat and vegetables. 

Ingredients include: Ground beef, parsley, onion, Worcestershire sauce, and rosemary.

33. Parmesan Crusted Chicken

What makes this combination an impeccable union that satiates the most demanding palates?

Simply put, it’s the bold flavors running riot on your taste buds, coupled with the mouthwatering textures tantalizing every inch of your palate. 

Ingredients include: Boneless chicken breasts, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, parmesan cheese, and eggs.

34. Baked Ranch Chicken

These two scrumptious dishes work together so effortlessly that it’s almost like they were destined to be side by side on your dinner plate.

The tender and juicy chicken, seasoned with that irresistible ranch flavor, sings in harmony with the buttery goodness of fluffy mashed potatoes. 

Ingredients include: Chicken breasts, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, mayo, and parmesan cheese.

35. Crockpot Sausage And Peppers

This combination works well since the sausage provides a piquant taste while the peppers add subtle heat that teases your taste buds.

Add in the smooth and buttery goodness of the mashed potatoes, and you have a comforting meal that will please your palate and spirit.

Ingredients include: Sausage links, green pepper, onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning.

36. Panko Chicken

The crispy, golden exterior of the Panko-Crusted Chicken provides that satisfying crunch, contrasted with the succulent meat inside.

Meanwhile, the fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes support the Panko Chicken, melting in your mouth and serving as the ideal partner for the breaded main dish. 

Ingredients include: Chicken breast, smoked paprika, onion powder, panko breadcrumbs, and garlic powder.

37. Salmon Patties

The Salmon Patties, with their crispy exteriors and flaky interiors, provide a nice contrast to the mashed potatoes.

Plus, the subtle rich taste of the fish works wonders in melding with the homey feel of the potatoes, making for a truly satisfying meal.

It’s incredible how these two components work so well in tandem to provide an elevated dining experience you won’t soon forget.

Ingredients include: Canned salmon, eggs, breadcrumbs, white vinegar, and Dijon mustard.

38. Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed Peppers and mashed potatoes create a splendid partnership on your plate, making for a satisfying meal. 

The variety of delicious fillings found in the stuffed peppers, such as seasoned meat or vegetables, pair up with the mashed potatoes. 

This tempting combination allows your taste buds to explore an appealing contrast between the spiced flavors of the Stuffed Peppers and the comforting taste of the mashed potatoes.

Ingredients include: Bell peppers, garlic, olive oil, ground beef, and onion.

39. BBQ Chicken Meatballs

The juicy and tender BBQ Chicken Meatballs, coated with a rich and tangy sauce, complement the glorious texture of well-made mashed potatoes. 

The smoky barbecue flavor of the meatballs cuts through the mellow taste of the potatoes and adds depth to each bite. 

As the meatballs burst with flavor in your mouth, the mashed potatoes balance it out, creating a pleasant harmony on your palate.

Ingredients include: BBQ sauce, ground chicken, garlic, breadcrumbs, and milk.

40. Instant Pot Turkey Tenderloin

The delectable combination of Instant Pot Turkey Tenderloin and mashed potatoes has long been a staple in many households. 

This culinary pairing creates a tender balance between the juicy and flavorful turkey tenderloin cooked in the Instant Pot and the comforting mashed potatoes. 

When you take a bite, the harmony of textures and flavors excites your taste buds, leaving you craving for more.

Ingredients include: Turkey tenderloin, olive oil, rosemary, chicken broth, and salt.

The bottom line

Mashed potatoes are a versatile and delicious side dish that can be served with various main courses.
 
So the next time you’re wondering what to serve with your favorite meal, don’t forget the mashed potatoes!
 
They’re understated but oh-so flavorful, and they’re sure to make your meal even more special.

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