This recipe elevates simple potatoes to a delicious and comforting side dish, perfect for any meal. The combination of creamy butter and savory onion soup mix creates a flavor explosion that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to disappear quickly at any gathering.
What Makes This Recipe So Good?
The magic lies in the simplicity. We're taking a humble ingredient – the potato – and transforming it with just two pantry staples: butter and onion soup mix. The result is a dish that's surprisingly flavorful and satisfying, yet requires minimal effort. The butter adds richness and creaminess, while the onion soup mix delivers a complex blend of savory herbs and spices.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon Gold or red potatoes also work well)
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup milk or cream for extra richness
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cube the potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces. Ensure they are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.
- Drain and Add Butter & Soup Mix: Drain the potatoes well. Return them to the pot and stir in the butter, onion soup mix, salt, and pepper. If using milk or cream, add it now and stir until well combined.
- Mash (Optional): If you prefer mashed potatoes, you can use a potato masher or electric mixer to mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. For a chunkier texture, simply fluff the potatoes with a fork.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a delicious side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of potatoes are best for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their fluffy texture when cooked. However, Yukon Gold or red potatoes also work well, offering slightly different flavors and textures.
Can I use homemade onion soup mix?
Absolutely! Using homemade onion soup mix will allow you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Many recipes are available online.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, you could reduce the amount of butter or use a healthier alternative, such as olive oil. You could also add more vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots, to increase the nutritional value.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it's best served immediately, you can prepare the potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving, adding a little extra butter or milk if needed to restore moisture.
What other seasonings can I add?
Feel free to experiment with other seasonings! Garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary would all complement the onion soup mix nicely.
Tips and Variations
- For extra flavor, sauté the potatoes in butter before boiling.
- Add a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving for a cheesy twist.
- Use different types of soup mix for variation. Chicken or beef soup mix could also work well.
- Consider adding sauteed onions or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
This simple recipe is a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal. Its ease of preparation and delicious taste make it a go-to side dish for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!
