Mashed potatoes are the perfect side dish but finding the perfect main dish to go with potatoes may be a bit overwhelming. These are the best main dishes to serve with your favorite mashed potatoes.
Go beyond chicken and gravy, baked chicken and your other delicious chicken recipes and find a new favorite main dish to serve with leftover mashed potatoes.
Main Dishes That Go Well With Mashed Potato
Find perfect main and side dishes to serve with mashed potatoes. From comforting main dishes to delightful side dishes, enhance your creamy mashed potatoes. Looking for a simple dessert? I recomend my 2 ingredient peanut butter fudge. I also suggest my latest recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Broccoli.
Beef Main Dishes to Serve with Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes and beef are one of those pairings that just make sense; the creamy, buttery potatoes are the perfect base for rich gravies, braised cuts, and saucy steak dishes.
Beef Stroganoff
The Beef Stroganoff's tender beef strips, rich flavors of onions and mushrooms, and smooth potato texture combine to make a delectable dish that will leave you craving more. This recipe made it into my Crockpot Game Day Recipes list!
Chicken Fried Steak
The contrast in textures and flavors between the crunchy chicken and the smooth mashed potatoes is just exquisite.
Country Fried Steak
Typically smothered in a rich and flavorful gravy, adding an extra layer of indulgence to the dish. Also, the combination of the crispy steak, creamy potatoes creates a mouthwatering and comforting meal that is sure to please any meat lover.
Hamburger with Mushroom Sauce
The rich and savory gravy that accompanies the hamburger adds an extra layer of indulgence to this comforting dish. The tender and juicy hamburger patty pairs perfectly with the mashed potatoes, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal that will leave you craving more.
Meatloaf
The pairing of the moist and tender meatloaf with the mashed potatoes creates a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Mississippi Pot Roast
Crockpot Mississippi pot roast is fall apart tender and so full of flavor. In a crock pot combine chuck roast with ranch dressing mix, au jus mix, butter and peperoncini to make a delicious crockpot meal.
Roast Beef with Gravy
Savory gravy truly complements the beef perfectly, adding an extra layer of richness and indulgence. Together, they create a mouthwatering combination with tempting mashed potatoes that will have you coming back for seconds.
Salisbury Steak
Sink your teeth into the savory goodness of Salisbury steak, complemented by a velvety mushroom gravy. The mashed potatoes act as a delectable canvas, balancing the rich flavors and adding a comforting element to this classic comfort food.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
The slow-cooked tenderness of beef stew is elevated to new heights when ladled atop a bed of mashed potatoes. The velvety potatoes soak up the rich flavors of the stew, creating a luscious amalgamation that will warm your soul with every spoonful.
Slow Cooker Chuck Roast
Mashed potatoes have an exceptional talent for absorbing flavors, and when they meet the tender pot roast it's a match made in culinary heaven. The smooth texture of the potatoes acts as a luxurious base, enhancing the succulence of the meat and vegetables.
Steak Diane
The indulgent, pan-seared steak coated in a rich Diane sauce sings a symphony when accompanied by mashed potatoes. The potatoes act as a neutral foundation, allowing the special occasion dish and the complex flavors of the sauce to take center stage.
Steak Tips with Gravy
Tender beef tips bathed in a luscious mushroom sauce beg for the company of mashed potatoes. The creamy canvas of the potatoes helps to balance the robust flavors of the steak and gravy, creating a luxurious and satisfying combination.
Chicken and Turkey Dishes That Go with Mashed Potatoes
From crispy fried chicken to saucy Marsala, poultry and mashed potatoes are weeknight dinner staples for a reason; the potatoes soak up every bit of that pan sauce.
Chicken Marsala
The chicken is cooked in a rich and savory Marsala wine sauce, infusing it with a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the earthy mushrooms. The mashed potatoes provide a comforting and satisfying base for this indulgent dish.
Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan strikes the ideal balance between crunch and smoothness thanks to the breaded chicken cutlet. The chicken is topped with melted cheese, which gives it a rich, savory flavor and works well with the potatoes.
Chicken Piccata
The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes is well offset by the tartness of the lemon sauce. Every mouthful of Chicken Piccata is an explosion of flavor because of the combination of the soft and juicy chicken with the smooth and buttery potatoes.
Chicken Pot Pie
The flaky crust of the Chicken Pot Pie adds a delightful crunch to each bite, creating a filling variation on the smooth mashed potatoes. This classic comfort dish is sure to leave you feeling warm and satisfied.
Fried Chicken
Crunchy chicken and smooth potatoes provide a welcome textural contrast that enhances every taste. The seasoned chicken and buttery mashed potatoes provide an irresistible blend of comfort food and indulgence.
For a different main with the same easy sides, my guide to what to serve with chicken drumsticks has 36 options.
Mary Me Chicken
Marry me chicken made in the crock pot is the easy dinner meal that everyone loves. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Italian herbs smothering chicken might just make you want to pop a question, it is so good! Don't forget to serve mashed potatoes with it!
Roasted Chicken with Vegetables
The roasted vegetables add a burst of color and a delicious crunch to some mashed potatoes, complementing the tender chicken perfectly. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying and well-balanced meal that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.
Turkey Meatloaf
A comforting classic like turkey meatloaf deserves a comforting side, and mashed potatoes are just the ticket. With their velvety smoothness, mashed potatoes elevate each bite of the flavorful entree, creating a delicious and comforting union.
For another main that needs a well-rounded plate, my guide to what to serve with lamb chops has 26 ideas to choose from.
Turkey Shepherd's Pie
A hearty and wholesome dish like Shepherd's Pie finds its ideal companion in mashed potatoes. As the buttery blanket atop a medley of ground turkey and vegetables, the mashed potatoes bring an extra layer of creaminess, tying the ingredients together into a blissful symphony of flavors.
Turkey Tetrazzini
The creamy, cheesy delight of turkey tetrazzini finds its ultimate match in mashed potatoes. The soft and creamy potatoes provide a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole, making every forkful a divine experience.
If you are planning a holiday spread, my guide to what to serve with turkey rounds out the table nicely.
White Wine Braised Chicken Thighs
The succulent braised chicken thighs, infused with the flavors of white wine, are taken to new heights when paired with mashed potatoes. The creamy potatoes absorb the aromatic essence of the wine, enhancing the overall taste and creating a culinary masterpiece.
Pork Mains to Serve Alongside Mashed Potatoes
Pork and potatoes go together the way a good Sunday dinner should; whether it is a smothered chop or slow-cooked pulled pork, the combination never misses.
Corned Beef and Cabbage
Tender corned beef pairs perfectly with the slightly sweet and earthy flavor of the cabbage, creating a well-balanced and delicious meal. The mashed potatoes provide a creamy and comforting base that ties all the flavors together.
For another dinner that needs the right sides, my beef stroganoff side dish guide has more ideas to pull from.
Grilled Pork Chops
The smokiness imparted by grilling the pork chops is a welcome addition to the meal. In addition, the luscious mashed potatoes complement the tender pork well, making for a satisfying and filling supper.
Ham Steak
The combination of the savory ham slice and velvety mashed potatoes creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Additionally, the natural juices from the ham add a burst of succulence to each bite, elevating the overall dining experience.
Oven Baked Pork Chops
This easy recipe for pork chops are seasoned with a delicious blend of herbs and spices and then baked to perfection in the oven. The result is a tender and juicy chop that pairs perfectly with the fluffy mashed potatoes. It's a classic combination that never fails to impress.
Pork Loin with Apples and Onions
Flavor-wise, the pork loin, caramelized onions, and apples provide a wonderful contrast to one another. The dish's rich hues make it not only tasty but also aesthetically beautiful and is the perfect pairing for a classic mashed potato.
Pork Tenderloin
If you are a fan of pork tenderloin this citrus infused recipe is one that you will want to make over and over again. A super easy and satisfying weeknight meal the whole family will get on board with.
Ribs
Fall-off-the-bone tender ribs coated in a sticky glaze are a barbecue lover's dream. Introduce mashed potatoes to the scene, and their velvety texture serves as a delightful contrast to the smoky, tangy flavors of the ribs, ensuring a satisfying and comforting meal.
Sausage and Peppers
When the zesty sausages and vibrant peppers combine with the mellow creaminess of mashed potatoes provides a pleasant contrast. Its texture helps to tame the spiciness of the sausages and peppers, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Sandwiches
The combination of pulled pork, tangy BBQ sauce, and refreshing coleslaw is a masterpiece in itself. Add a dollop of mashed potatoes to the equation, and you have a medley of flavors that tickles your taste buds with each bite, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
Smothered Pork Chops
The name says it all: smothered in flavorful gravy, these juicy chops crave the presence of mashed potatoes. The smooth texture of the potatoes mellows the robust flavors of the dish, allowing each component to shine without overpowering the palate.
Seasonal Favorite
This is my award-winning Crisco pie crust recipe; flaky, tender, and made with simple ingredients you already have.
Seafood Dishes That Pair Well with Mashed Potatoes
Seafood with mashed potatoes might surprise you, but a buttery pan sauce on tender salmon or scallops is exactly what those potatoes were made to soak up.
Pan-seared Salmon
You won't be able to get enough of this dish because of the perfect harmony between the rich mashed potatoes and the light fish.
Seared Scallops
The delicate sweetness of seared scallops dances harmoniously with the tangy zest of lemon butter sauce. With each forkful, the smooth mashed potatoes serve as a neutral foundation, enhancing the flavors of the scallops and adding a touch of decadence to this easy to make dish.
Shrimp Scampi over Linguine
The garlic shrimp of a Scampi dish finds a luxurious harmony when paired with mashed potatoes. Their silky texture and subtle taste provide a soothing contrast to the robust flavors of the scampi, making every bite a delicious experience.
Sous Vide Sea Bass
The best way to cook a sea bass is to use the sous vide cooking method. By setting the sous vide water temperature to your optimal doneness. The fish will be your preferred temperature from edge to edge. The sea bass will retain all the fat and moisture because of being in the sous vide bag.
Spanish Classic!
Red Sangria
Transforms your favorite bottle of red wine into a party-worthy cocktail.
Veal Dishes to Serve with Mashed Potatoes
Veal is delicate, and mashed potatoes are the ideal companion; their mild, creamy base lets the subtle flavor of the meat stay front and center.
Veal Marsala
The elegant flavors of veal Marsala require an equally sophisticated partner, and mashed potatoes step up to the plate. Their creamy texture acts as a luxurious base, enhancing the delicate flavors of the veal and the earthy richness of the Marsala sauce.
Veal Parmesan
Indulge in the classic Italian delight that is veal Parmesan and let mashed potatoes take your experience to the next level. The velvety smoothness of the potatoes tempers the richness of the dish, ensuring a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Veal Scallopini
The tender veal scallopini, lightly coated in a delicate sauce, finds its culinary soulmate in mashed potatoes. The creaminess of the potatoes accentuates the subtle flavors of the veal, resulting in a refined and satisfying dining experience.
Vegetable Sides and Sauces
Mashed potatoes do not always need a protein to shine; a rich mushroom gravy, creamy spinach, or a hearty vegetable stew can turn a bowl of potatoes into a satisfying meal on its own.
Creamed Kale
Mashed potatoes pair well with delicate, nutrient-packed kale leaves in a creamy sauce. Its velvety texture contrasts well with the lush greens, and their mild taste pairs well with the somewhat bitter kale, making you fall in love with it.
Creamed Spinach
Spinach, known for its many advantages, tastes better with mashed potatoes. Potatoes lend luxury to delicate spinach leaves in a velvety cream sauce. The velvety mashed Yukon gold potatoes and subtle sharpness of the spinach form a delicious combination that will make your taste senses thrill.
Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed pepper soup is a hearty, thick soup that is like eating a stuffed bell pepper with the ground beef, cooked rice, tomatoes and bell peppers that you love, but you eat it out of a bowl.
Mushroom Gravy
Mushrooms and mashed potatoes create an umami explosion. Creamy red potatoes enhance the earthy mushroom sauce. The combination provides a symphony of delicious tastes that will leave you licking your lips after a satisfying meal.
Vegan Mushroom Stew
Serve this earthy gem with mashed potatoes for a culinary symphony. The deep stew and creamy potatoes create a sumptuous combination that highlights each ingredient, leaving you warm, satiated, and appreciating plant-based cooking.
Zucchini Lasagna
Imagine pasta sheets layered with soft zucchini, vivid tomato sauce, and melting cheese. Imagine silky mashed potatoes' charm. Its creamy texture complements the zucchini, creating a soothing base that accentuates the lasagna's tastes and leaves you wanting more.
FAQ's and Tips
Ultimately, the choice between using a spoon or a fork to enjoy mashed potatoes is a matter of personal preference. Some people may prefer the convenience and ease of a spoon, while others may enjoy the ability to savor the texture and pick up individual pieces with a fork.
Here are a few factors to consider when deciding which utensil to use:
Consistency: If the mashed potatoes have a smooth and creamy consistency, a spoon is often the preferred utensil. The spoon allows you to scoop up the potatoes easily and enjoy their velvety texture.
Chunky or lumpy potatoes: If the mashed potatoes have visible chunks or lumps, a fork can be more suitable. The tines of the fork can help you pierce and pick up individual pieces, allowing you to savor the texture.
Dining etiquette: If you're in a formal dining setting or a more formal occasion, it is generally more appropriate to use a fork when eating mashed potatoes. This is because using a fork is considered more refined and proper.
I am Sarah Mock. Welcome!
Sarah Mock is a classically trained Chef and a graduate of Johnson & Wales University. A culinary blogger for 17 years, Sarah helps the home cook prepare her recipes with professional results.
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