Mashed potatoes with gravy is a classic comfort food that everybody loves. A serving size of 1 scoop or 136 grams of mashed potatoes with gravy contains approximately 50 calories. Despite being a favorite side dish, people often wonder if it is good for their diet. Let's find out more about mashed potatoes with gravy in this article.

Mashed potatoes with gravy is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. A 136-gram serving provides approximately 10% of the daily recommended value of fiber, 24% of vitamin C, and 7% of potassium. It also contains some amount of protein and iron.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value and diet-friendliness of mashed potatoes with gravy. We'll also discuss different ways to prepare it and some tips to make it healthier. Additionally, we'll compare mashed potatoes with gravy with other side dishes, and provide storage tips and some interesting recipes to try.

Calories and Nutrients in Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy

As mentioned earlier, a 136-gram serving of mashed potatoes with gravy contains approximately 50 calories. It is also a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. One serving of mashed potatoes with gravy contains 11 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of protein, and 1 gram of fat. It is also low in sodium and sugar. However, the nutritional value of this dish can vary depending on the ingredients used to prepare it. For instance, adding butter or cream can significantly increase its calorie and fat content.

Diet-Friendly Varieties

Potatoes are naturally gluten-free and can be a great choice for people on a gluten-free diet. Additionally, mashed potatoes with gravy can be a good option for vegetarians and vegans if prepared without meat-based gravy. To make mashed potatoes with gravy diet-friendly, one can opt for low-fat, low-sodium, and low-calorie ingredients. For instance, using skim milk instead of cream, and adding herbs and spices for flavor instead of butter or salt can make it healthier. One can also try different varieties of mashed potatoes with gravy, such as sweet potato mash, cauliflower mash, or parsnip mash, for a nutrient-packed and flavorful alternative.

Ways to Prepare Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy

Mashed potatoes with gravy is a versatile dish that can be prepared in various ways. The traditional way is to boil potatoes, mash them, and mix them with butter, milk, and salt to taste. The gravy is usually made by heating butter, flour, and broth or drippings from roasted meat. One can also add different flavors to mashed potatoes with gravy by adding garlic, cheese, bacon, or chives. Adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can also enhance its flavor. To make mashed potatoes with gravy healthier, one can use low-fat milk or yogurt instead of cream, and substitute vegetable broth for meat-based broth. One can also replace butter with olive oil or avocado for a healthier fat option.

The Benefits of Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy

Mashed potatoes with gravy is a comfort food that can provide several benefits to the body. Some of its health benefits include: - Providing fiber, which can improve digestion and prevent constipation. - Providing vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health.

Is Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy Good for You?

Mashed potatoes with gravy can be a healthy and nutritious side dish if prepared with the right ingredients and in the right portions. However, it can also be high in calories, fat, and sodium if prepared with heavy cream, butter, and salted gravy. To make mashed potatoes with gravy healthy, one should use low-fat milk, low-sodium broth or gravy, and substitute butter with healthier fats like olive oil or avocado. Additionally, one should consume mashed potatoes with gravy in moderation and balance it with other healthy foods to maintain a healthy and balanced diet.

How to Make Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy Healthier

Making mashed potatoes with gravy healthier is easy with these tips: - Use low-fat milk or yogurt instead of cream. - Substitute vegetable broth for meat-based broth and use low-sodium options.

Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy vs Other Side Dishes

Compared to other side dishes, mashed potatoes with gravy can be a healthier option if prepared with the right ingredients and in the right portions. Some healthy alternatives to mashed potatoes with gravy include: - Quinoa salad with vegetables and vinaigrette dressing. - Grilled vegetables, such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Storage Tips for Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy

To store leftover mashed potatoes with gravy, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them within 2 hours of cooking. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat mashed potatoes with gravy, place them in a microwave-safe dish and microwave them on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. One can also reheat them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. To freeze mashed potatoes with gravy, store them in an airtight container and freeze them for up to 2-3 months. To defrost, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy

1. Can mashed potatoes with gravy be reheated in the oven? - Yes, one can reheat mashed potatoes with gravy in the oven by placing them in an oven-safe dish and baking them at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. 2. Can mashed potatoes with gravy be frozen?

Interesting Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy Recipes to Try

Here are some interesting mashed potatoes with gravy recipes to try: - Garlic and Parmesan Mashed Potatoes - Vegan Mushroom Gravy Mashed Potatoes