If you have ever craved creamy, luscious mashed potatoes that are completely plant-based, you are about to meet your new go-to comfort food. The Best Damn Vegan Mashed Potatoes Recipe is everything you want in a velvety side dish—rich, garlicky, perfectly seasoned, and satisfying in every scoop. Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or just looking for a healthier twist on a classic, this recipe delivers that warm, cozy feeling with a little extra love and zero compromise on flavor. Trust me, once you try these, mashed potatoes will never be the same again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping this recipe simple is part of its magic. Each ingredient serves a purpose—bringing out the natural sweetness of Yukon Gold potatoes, layering in garlic’s deep aroma, and enriching the mash with creamy vegan butter. You don’t need a pantry full of fancy items to create something incredibly satisfying.
- 6-8 medium Yukon Gold potatoes: Their naturally creamy texture makes for the smoothest mash without being gluey.
- 1 tsp sea salt (divided): Essential for seasoning the potatoes while they boil and again in the final mash.
- Water to cover: Needed to boil the potatoes evenly until tender.
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper: Adds just enough bite to balance the creaminess.
- 5-6 cloves raw or roasted garlic: Garlic infuses the mash with irresistible warmth, and roasting it brings out a mellow sweetness.
- 3-4 Tbsp vegan butter (such as Earth Balance): The secret to buttery richness and silky texture.
- 1/4 cup fresh chives (optional): Provides a fresh, mild oniony pop as a finishing touch.
How to Make The Best Damn Vegan Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Boil the Potatoes
Start by washing and peeling the Yukon Gold potatoes if you prefer them skinless, although the skins do add texture and nutrients if you leave them on. Cut any large potatoes in half to ensure even cooking. Place all the potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and stir in half of your sea salt. Bring this to a gentle boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender—typically around 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Infuse with Garlic
While the potatoes cook, prepare your garlic. You can add a rustic depth of flavor by either roasting whole garlic cloves until soft or lightly sautéing minced garlic in olive oil for three minutes. Both methods bring out different but equally delicious notes. When the potatoes are ready, you’ll fold this garlicky goodness into the mash to make each bite uniquely comforting.
Step 3: Mash and Season
Drain the cooked potatoes well and return them to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Add your vegan butter while the potatoes are still steaming hot, so it melts beautifully. Next, add your prepared garlic, the remaining 1/2 tsp sea salt, and black pepper. Using a potato masher, go to town until the texture is just right—smooth with a little bit of chunkiness if you’re feeling rustic.
Step 4: Adjust and Finish
Taste your mash and adjust salt or pepper as needed. The magic here is that simple seasoning works best, so avoid overloading the flavors. If you have fresh chives on hand, sprinkle them on top just before serving to give a fresh burst of color and mild onion flavor that perfectly complements the creamy mash.
How to Serve The Best Damn Vegan Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
This dish is a blank canvas rewarding with bright garnishes. Beyond chives, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or even toasted breadcrumbs add texture and a visual pop that will make your mashed potatoes look as good as they taste.
Side Dishes
The versatility of The Best Damn Vegan Mashed Potatoes Recipe means it pairs beautifully with virtually any main. Serve alongside roasted vegetables, lentil loaf, crispy tofu, or your favorite vegan gravy. It’s also a soul-satisfying addition to vegan holiday feasts, where comforting, hearty sides are a must.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your mashed potatoes by piping them into rosettes for a fancy dinner vibe or layering them in a shepherd’s pie with savory lentils and veggies. Leftovers can be transformed into crispy potato cakes by pan-frying dollops until golden and crunchy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra mashed potatoes, transfer them to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3-4 days, making it easy to enjoy leftover comfort whenever you want.
Freezing
Freezing mashed potatoes is totally doable with this recipe. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture. Keep in mind the potatoes may lose a bit of their fresh creaminess but can be revived easily with a splash of plant milk and a quick mash.
Reheating
Warm your leftovers gently on the stove or in the microwave. Stir occasionally, and feel free to add a little vegan butter or plant-based milk to refresh the creamy consistency. Avoid overheating to keep that dreamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! Yukon Golds are ideal for their creaminess, but Russets or red potatoes work well too—just expect some variations in texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have vegan butter?
You can substitute with olive oil or coconut oil. Olive oil gives a lovely fruity note, while coconut oil adds richness but may lightly influence flavor.
How much garlic should I add for a milder taste?
Start with 2 or 3 cloves and taste as you go. Roasting garlic mellows its sharpness significantly compared to raw or sautéed garlic.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Not at all. Keeping the skins adds texture, nutrients, and a rustic look. Just make sure to scrub them well before boiling.
What vegan butter brand do you recommend?
Earth Balance is a classic choice with a great buttery flavor, but feel free to try others that you love—just make sure they melt smoothly for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend The Best Damn Vegan Mashed Potatoes Recipe enough for anyone looking to add a little extra joy to their meals. It’s hearty, comforting, and incredibly easy to whip up on any weeknight or special occasion. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple on your table. Your taste buds will thank you!
PrintThe Best Damn Vegan Mashed Potatoes Recipe
A creamy and flavorful recipe for the best vegan mashed potatoes made with Yukon Gold potatoes, vegan butter, garlic, and fresh chives, perfect as a comforting side dish for any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 6–8 medium Yukon Gold potatoes (if large, cut in half)
- Water to cover
- 1 tsp sea salt (divided)
Seasoning and Flavoring
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 5–6 cloves raw or roasted garlic (or substitute with minced garlic sautéed for 3 minutes in olive oil)
- 3–4 Tbsp vegan butter (such as Earth Balance, melted or softened)
- 1/4 cup fresh chives (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes if desired and cut any large potatoes in half to ensure even cooking. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1/2 tsp of sea salt to the water.
- Cook the Potatoes: Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes depending on size. Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander.
- Prepare the Garlic: If using raw garlic, you can add it directly to the potatoes for a stronger flavor or use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter taste. Alternatively, sauté minced garlic in 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat for 3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Mash the Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot or a large bowl. Add the vegan butter, cooked or raw garlic, remaining 1/2 tsp sea salt, and 1/2 tsp ground black pepper. Mash together using a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy, adding a splash of water or plant-based milk if needed for desired consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh chives if using. Serve warm as a comforting side dish.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes as they yield a naturally creamy texture perfect for mashed potatoes.
- Roasting garlic before adding will provide a sweeter, milder flavor compared to raw garlic.
- Sautéing garlic in olive oil beforehand is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
- For a richer mashed potato, adjust the amount of vegan butter to your preference.
- Fresh chives add a mild oniony freshness and make an attractive garnish.
