Introduction
I’ve always loved having mashed potatoes as a side dish. There’s something so comforting about a warm, creamy bowl of mashed potatoes alongside a home-cooked meal. For years, I thought dairy was essential to get that rich, smooth texture—until I tried making them without it.
The first time I went dairy-free, I was nervous. Would they still be creamy? Would they have that satisfying, buttery flavor? To my surprise, they turned out just as delicious, with the perfect balance of fluffiness and richness. These dairy-free mashed potatoes have become my favorite, and I don’t even miss the milk or butter anymore!
This recipe is perfect if you’re steering clear of dairy for allergies, dietary preferences, or just looking for a lighter option. With the right ingredients and a few simple techniques, you can have mashed potatoes that are every bit as smooth, flavorful, and satisfying—completely dairy-free.
Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make perfectly creamy dairy-free mashed potatoes:
- A large pot – That can easily hold the potatoes during boiling.
- Potato masher or hand mixer – A masher gives a more rustic texture, while a mixer makes it ultra-smooth.
- Peeler and knife – To remove the skin and chop potatoes evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
Ingredients
To make these dairy-free mashed potatoes, gather the following ingredients:
- Potatoes (2 lbs) – Yukon Gold for a creamy texture or Russet for fluffiness.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil – To provide a rich, silky texture.
- Garlic (2 cloves) – Use fresh or roasted for extra flavor.
- Unsweetened Almond Milk (½ cup) – A creamy, dairy-free substitute.
- Vegetable Broth (¼ cup) – Enhances moisture and taste.
- Salt (1 tsp) & Black Pepper (½ tsp) – For seasoning and balance.
- Fresh Herbs (1 tbsp, optional) – Garnish with rosemary, thyme, or parsley for added flavor and color.
Substitutions & Tips
- Swap almond milk for cashew or oat milk for extra creaminess.
- Roast garlic for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Coconut cream adds ultra-smooth texture without dairy.
Simple ingredients, amazing flavor—let’s get cooking!
How to Make Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes
Dairy-free mashed potatoes are simpler to make than you might expect! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a creamy, flavorful side dish that everyone will love.
Prepare the Potatoes
- Remove the skins for a smoother mash, or leave them on for a rustic finish.
- Cut the potatoes into equal-sized pieces to make sure they cook uniformly.
- Wash the potato pieces in cold water to get rid of extra starch. This helps prevent them from getting gluey.
Boil the Potatoes
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water (starting with cold water helps them cook more evenly).
- Heat the water over medium-high until it reaches a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the potatoes simmer for 15-20 minutes or until they’re fork-tender.
- Remove the potatoes from the water, then place them back in the pot. Let them sit for a minute—this helps remove any excess moisture, making the mash fluffier.
Mash the Potatoes
- Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash the potatoes until they start to break down.
- Incorporate olive oil, minced garlic, almond milk, and vegetable broth.
- Continue mashing until you reach your desired consistency—smooth or slightly chunky.
Season and Serve
- Stir in salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy your rich, dairy-free mashed potatoes!
This method keeps your mashed potatoes light, fluffy, and full of flavor.
Tips and Hacks
I’ve learned some helpful tips over time to enhance dairy-free mashed potatoes. Whether you want extra creaminess, bolder flavors, or a foolproof mashing method, these tips will take your dish to the next level!
Best Potatoes for Mashing
- Yukon Golds – Are naturally buttery and creamy, making them ideal for smooth mashed potatoes.
- Russet Potatoes – High in starch, making them light and fluffy.
- Red Potatoes – Less starchy, but great if you like a chunkier texture.
Make Them Extra Creamy
- Use cashew or oat milk instead of almond milk for a thicker consistency.
- Try coconut cream for an ultra-rich texture (don’t worry, the coconut flavor is subtle).
- Mash while the potatoes are still hot—they absorb liquids better this way.
Boost the Flavor
- Roast the garlic before adding it to the mash for a mellow, caramelized taste.
- Use vegetable broth instead of water when boiling the potatoes for deeper flavor.
- Add nutritional yeast for a mild cheesy flavor with umami richness.
No Masher? No Problem!
- Use a fork for a rustic, chunky texture.
- A hand mixer makes them extra smooth and fluffy.
- A blender or food processor creates ultra-creamy mashed potatoes (but be careful not to over-blend, or they can turn gluey!).
These simple tricks will help you achieve the perfect mashed potatoes every time—without a drop of dairy!
Nutrition Score
One of the best things about dairy-free mashed potatoes is that they’re not just delicious—they’re also packed with nutrients!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~150
- Fat: 7g (healthy fats from olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 22g (energy-boosting complex carbs)
- Fiber: 3g (great for digestion)
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: ~400mg (depending on the amount of salt and broth used)
Learn more about the nutritional benefits of potatoes in this detailed guide from Healthline.
Serving & Storage
Follow these guidelines to serve, store, and reheat while preserving the best flavor and texture.
Best Ways to Serve
These mashed potatoes complement a range of dishes perfectly:
- Roasted Vegetables – Serve alongside roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for a wholesome meal.
- Grilled or Baked Proteins – An ideal match for chicken, turkey, salmon, or vegetarian options such as tofu or lentil patties.
- Holiday Side Dish – A traditional choice for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday meal. For an easy and flavorful side, try this Salt and Pepper Shrimp—its crispy texture complements the creamy potatoes perfectly.
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Although it’s possible, freezing might slightly affect the texture. If you choose to freeze, place the potatoes in an airtight container and store them for up to two months.
Reheating Tips
- Stovetop: Heat over low heat, adding a splash of almond milk or vegetable broth to restore creaminess. Stir frequently.
- Microwave: Heat in short 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to prevent drying out.
- Oven: Place the potatoes in a covered dish and heat them at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Following these tips will keep your mashed potatoes as tasty as the day they were made.
FAQs
What is a good dairy substitute for mashed potatoes?
Unsweetened almond milk, cashew milk, oat milk, or vegetable broth work great as dairy-free alternatives. Each one provides a unique texture, so pick whichever suits your taste!
What can I use instead of butter in mashed potatoes?
Olive oil, avocado oil, or dairy-free margarine can all add a rich texture. Each one provides a slightly different flavor—olive oil is my favorite for its smooth, slightly fruity taste.
Are there any dairy-free instant mashed potatoes?
Yes! Several brands have dairy-free options, but always read the ingredient list. Look for labels that say “vegan” or “dairy-free” to confirm they’re right for you
How do I make mashed potatoes creamy without milk?
Combining olive oil and vegetable broth results in smooth, rich mashed potatoes—no milk needed. You might also try adding a touch of coconut cream for an extra-smooth texture.
Print
The Ultimate Guide to Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These creamy dairy-free mashed potatoes are rich, fluffy, and full of flavor—without any milk or butter! Olive oil, almond milk, and vegetable broth create a silky-smooth texture, making them the perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold for creaminess or Russet for fluffiness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or roasted for extra flavor)
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
- ¼ cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes for a smoother texture or leave the skins on for a rustic feel. Cut into equal-sized pieces and rinse with cold water to remove excess starch.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return them to the pot to release excess moisture.
- Mash the Potatoes: Use a potato masher or hand mixer to begin mashing. Add olive oil, minced garlic, almond milk, and vegetable broth. Continue mashing until smooth or slightly chunky, depending on preference.
- Season and Serve: Stir in salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For extra creaminess, use cashew or oat milk instead of almond milk.
Roast the garlic beforehand for a richer, more caramelized flavor.
Coconut cream adds an ultra-smooth texture without an overpowering coconut taste.
If using a food processor, avoid over-blending to prevent a gluey consistency.
- Method: Boiling, Mashing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: ~150
- Sodium: ~400mg
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
Keywords: dairy-free mashed potatoes, vegan mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, holiday side dish, easy mashed potatoes
Conclusion
Dairy-free mashed potatoes prove that you don’t need butter or milk to enjoy a rich, creamy, and flavorful side dish. With the right ingredients and a few simple tricks, you can achieve the same comforting taste without any dairy at all!
Whether you’re making them for a holiday meal, a family dinner, or just to satisfy a craving, this recipe is a winner. It’s easy to personalize by mixing in your favorite herbs and spices. Once you give this version a go, you might find yourself not missing the traditional recipe at all!
It’s your turn now—get those potatoes and give the recipe a go. Let me know how it turns out and feel free to share your favorite dairy-free mashed potato tips in the comments!