Looking for a delicious and satisfying side dish that won't wreck your diet? Look no further than mashed potatoes with gravy! With just 70 calories per serving, this classic dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.

Not only is mashed potatoes with gravy tasty, it's also a good source of nutrients like potassium and vitamin C. Plus, making your own gravy allows you to control the amount of fat and sodium in the dish.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about making mashed potatoes with gravy, from nutrition information and recipe variations to storage and reheating tips. Let's get started!

Quick and Easy Mashed Potatoes Recipe

To make quick and easy mashed potatoes, start by peeling and cubing 2-3 potatoes. Boil them in a pot of salted water until tender, then drain and mash them with a fork or potato masher. Add a splash of milk and butter or margarine to taste, and season with salt and pepper. For a creamier consistency, you can also use an electric mixer or blender to puree the potatoes. And for a richer flavor, try adding grated cheese, sour cream, or minced garlic.

Rich and Flavorful Gravy Recipe

To make homemade gravy, start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to form a roux, and cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden brown. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 5-10 minutes until thickened. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste, and add any additional herbs or spices you prefer. Simple and delicious!

Nutrition Information for Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

A serving of mashed potatoes with gravy contains approximately 120 calories, 3 grams of fat, 20 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of protein. It is also a good source of potassium, with 420 milligrams per serving, and vitamin C, with 15% of your daily recommended intake. To make your mashed potatoes and gravy healthier, choose low-fat or non-dairy options for the milk and butter, and use whole wheat flour or cornstarch as a thickener instead of white flour.

Ways to Add Variations to Your Mashed Potatoes

Try adding grated cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, chopped scallions, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives to your mashed potatoes for extra flavor. You can also mix in cooked peas, carrots, or parsnips for added nutrition and texture. For a healthier option, try replacing some of the potatoes with cauliflower, turnips, or sweet potatoes. These vegetables add a unique taste and texture to the dish, while also reducing calories and carbohydrates.

Serving Suggestions for Mashed Potatoes With Gravy

Mashed potatoes with gravy is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Some popular options include roast turkey or chicken, meatloaf, pork chops, and grilled fish. You can also serve mashed potatoes with gravy as a stand-alone side dish, alongside steamed vegetables or a side salad. And for a special twist, try making mashed potato bowls with toppings like bacon, cheese, and green onions.

Ingredient List for Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

For the mashed potatoes, you'll need 2-3 potatoes, 1/4 cup of milk or non-dairy milk, 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine, salt, and pepper. For the gravy, you'll need 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 cup of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, salt, and pepper.

How to Make Mashed Potatoes With Gravy from Scratch

1. Peel and cube 2-3 potatoes, and boil them in a pot of salted water until tender. Drain and mash the potatoes with a fork or potato masher. 2. Add 1/4 cup of milk and 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine to the mashed potatoes, and mix until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 3. For the gravy, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to form a roux, and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 5-10 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Health Benefits of Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

Potatoes are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help keep your digestive system healthy and regular. They also contain vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin B6, which are all essential for overall health and wellness. Making your own gravy can also be a healthier option, as it allows you to control the amount of fat and sodium in the dish.

Storage and Reheating Options for Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

To store mashed potatoes and gravy, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave the dish in 30-second intervals until heated through, or warm it up in a saucepan on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to prevent sticking. Keep in mind that reheated mashed potatoes and gravy may have a slightly different texture, so it's best to enjoy them fresh if possible.

FAQ About Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes in this recipe? A: Yes, sweet potatoes can be a tasty and nutritious substitute for white potatoes in mashed potatoes with gravy. Simply cook them in the same way and mash them until smooth. Q: Can I make the gravy ahead of time?