Carrabba’s Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Carrabba’s mashed potatoes are extra rich and creamy, thanks to plenty of butter, cream, and just the right seasoning!

Starting with the right potatoes is everything—Yukon Golds have the best consistency for a smooth, velvety finish.

I warm the cream and butter together before adding them in so the potatoes absorb everything evenly without turning gummy.

A bit of roasted garlic mixed in brings a deep, mellow richness that takes these to another level.

For that signature Carrabba’s taste, a dash of white pepper and a little extra salt balance everything out.

The best trick? A small splash of extra cream right at the end keeps them soft and silky even after they’ve been sitting for a while.

How to Make Carrabba’s Mashed Potatoe

Ingredients

• 2 lb Potatoes (Yukon Gold)
• 1 cup Milk
• 4 tbsp Butter
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Peel and chop the potatoes into uniform chunks for even cooking.

Step 2:

Place the potatoes in a pot and cover them with cold water.

Add a pinch of salt.

Bring to a boil over high heat.

Step 3:

Reduce the heat and let the potatoes simmer for 20-25 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 4:

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

Add milk, butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Step 5:

Mash the potatoes with a potato masher until smooth and creamy.

Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose the Right Potato

Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamy texture, which is perfect for mashed potatoes.

You can use Russet potatoes, but they give a different finish.

Infuse with Garlic

Cook garlic cloves with the potatoes to infuse the mash with a milder garlic flavor.

Add them in the pot in the last 5 minutes of boiling.

Control the Consistency

If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more milk a little at a time.

This helps achieve your desired texture without over-mashing.

Use a Potato Masher

Avoid using a blender or food processor, which can make the potatoes gummy.

A potato masher gives you better control over the texture.

Season Gradually

Taste the potatoes as you season them to ensure they’re seasoned to your taste.

Remember, it’s easy to add more salt but hard to take it away!

What to Serve with Carrabba’s Mashed Potatoes

Classic Rotisserie Chicken

When you think of a traditional pairing, rotisserie chicken often comes to mind.

It’s easy to grab one from your local store, and the seasoned, juicy meat pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of mashed potatoes.

Plus, it’s a hit with anyone in the family, making meal planning a breeze.

Grilled Asparagus

If you’re looking to add a bit of freshness, grilled asparagus works wonderfully.

The slight char and crunch provide a nice contrast to the smoothness of the mashed potatoes.

Just a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkling of kosher salt really brings out the natural flavors.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Spice things up with lemon garlic shrimp for a unique twist!

The zesty flavors from the lemon and garlic create a vibrant combination with your mashed potatoes.

Cooking shrimp is quick, making this option perfect for a spur-of-the-moment dinner.

Spinach and Mushroom Sauté

A savory spinach and mushroom sauté can offer a hearty, earthy balance.

Serve it as a fresh and healthy addition right alongside those mashed potatoes.

Roasted Red Bell Peppers

Add a pop of color to your plate with roasted red bell peppers.

They provide a sweet and smoky flavor that enhances the savory aspect of your meal.

You might find this unconventional pairing surprisingly satisfying as it outshines the ordinary!

Variations and Substitutions

Garlic Twist

If you’re a garlic lover, you can add roasted garlic to enhance the flavor.

Simply roast a whole garlic bulb in the oven and mix it into the mashed potatoes.

You’ll help the taste of your mashed potatoes while adding a rich, warm depth to the dish.

Dairy Substitutions

For a lighter option, try substituting the cream with Greek yogurt or sour cream.

These can create a tangy creaminess without the heaviness of traditional cream.

You can use almond milk or oat milk to make it dairy-free.

Herbs and Spices

Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can give your potatoes added freshness.

A sprinkle of nutmeg can add a touch of spice and creaminess.

Don’t forget the pinch of salt or pepper to taste as well!

How to Store Leftover Carrabba’s Mashed Potatoes

Quick Cooling Strategy

To store your leftover Carrabba’s mashed potatoes properly, begin by allowing them to cool quickly.

Spread them out on a baking sheet for even cooling.

This helps prevent unnecessary moisture build-up.

Use Airtight Containers

Once cooled, transfer the mashed potatoes into airtight containers.

These containers help keep the potatoes fresh.

Make sure you leave some space at the top for expansion, especially if freezing.

Freezing Tips

If you choose to freeze them, use freezer-safe bags or containers.

It’s important to press out as much air as possible to maintain texture and flavor.

A quick label with the date can be helpful for a busy week!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Salting the Water

One critical step when making mashed potatoes is to salt the boiling water.

This small action infuses the potatoes with flavor from the inside out, rather than just coating them with salt at the end.

Skipping this can lead to bland potatoes, so don’t be shy with the salt!

Adding Cold Dairy

It’s tempting to grab milk or butter straight from the fridge, but adding cold ingredients can cool the potatoes too quickly.

Warm the milk and bring butter to room temperature for a smoother mash.

Your potatoes will stay hot and blend more easily with warm additions.

Overmixing the Potatoes

When you mix too much, the starches break down, and you get a gluey texture instead of fluffy mashed potatoes.

Stick to using a potato masher or even a fork for more control.

Avoid electric mixers or blenders, as they’ll turn those spuds into a sticky mess!