I remember making creamy mashed potatoes with gravy for the first time on Thanksgiving when I had volunteered to bring a side dish even though I had never made them from scratch so I peeled and boiled nervously hoping I wouldn’t mess up a holiday staple. And when I finally served that steaming bowl of silky potatoes covered in rich homemade gravy the compliments around the table told me everything I needed to know.

Since then this dish has become one of my most trusted go-to recipes for any occasion because it’s simple hearty and universally loved whether you’re serving it with roast chicken holiday turkey or just need a little comfort at the end of a long day.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Russet potatoes – The perfect base for fluffy mashed potatoes thanks to their high starch content.
Butter – Adds rich flavor and a creamy texture to the mashed potatoes.
Whole milk – Helps smooth out the mash while keeping it rich and luscious.
Sour cream – Adds a subtle tang and extra creaminess to the potatoes.
Salt and pepper – Basic but essential seasonings that bring out the best in every ingredient.
Beef or chicken broth – Forms the base of the gravy and brings savory depth.
All-purpose flour – Thickens the gravy to just the right consistency.
Pan drippings or butter – Adds richness and that golden color to the gravy.
Fresh parsley – Optional but adds a beautiful pop of color on top.

Tools You’ll Need

Large pot – For boiling the potatoes until fork-tender.
Potato masher or ricer – To create that smooth fluffy mash without lumps.
Mixing spoon or spatula – Perfect for stirring in butter and milk.
Medium saucepan – Where the gravy comes together in minutes.
Whisk – Helps keep the gravy lump-free and silky.
Measuring cups and spoons – For keeping everything well balanced.
Ladle – For serving that generous pour of warm gravy over each plate.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by peeling and chopping the potatoes into even chunks then I boil them in salted water until they’re tender about 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 2:

While the potatoes cook I melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in the flour to make a roux cooking for about a minute until it’s golden.

Step 3:

I slowly whisk in the broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps then I simmer the gravy until it thickens and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4:

Once the potatoes are fork-tender I drain them and return them to the pot to let excess steam escape.

Step 5:

I add the butter milk and sour cream then mash everything together until smooth and creamy seasoning with salt and pepper as I go.

Step 6:

To serve I scoop a generous portion of mashed potatoes into a bowl and ladle that warm savory gravy right over the top finishing with a sprinkle of parsley if I want to dress it up.

Tips

If I want ultra-smooth potatoes I use a ricer instead of a masher. You can warm the milk and butter before adding them to prevent cooling down the mash and for richer flavor in the gravy use pan drippings from roasted meat if you have them. Leftover mashed potatoes also make amazing potato cakes the next day.

Ways to Serve

These creamy mashed potatoes with gravy go with just about anything—roast beef turkey meatloaf or grilled chicken and they also pair well with sautéed greens or roasted carrots for a balanced plate. I even enjoy them on their own when I’m craving something warm and cozy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Gravy ahead of time?

Yes you can prepare both parts ahead just reheat gently with a splash of milk for the potatoes and stir the gravy over low heat until warm.

Can I use Yukon gold potatoes instead of russets?

Absolutely they’ll give you a creamier texture and a slightly buttery flavor though they’re a bit less fluffy.

How do I thicken my gravy if it’s too thin?

Let it simmer longer or whisk in a little more flour mixed with cold broth or water to avoid lumps.

Can I make Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Gravy dairy-free?

Yes use plant-based butter and milk alternatives and skip the sour cream or replace it with a dairy-free option.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this creamy mashed potatoes with gravy recipe a try soon because it’s one of those dishes that brings pure comfort to any meal and I’d love to hear how yours turns out or see your version at the dinner table!

Happy Cooking!