No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without creamy mashed potatoes and rich homemade gravy. This classic side dish is the ultimate comfort food, pairing perfectly with roast turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. In our home, mashed potatoes are the dish everyone fights over — and gravy ties the whole plate together.

A Family Story

One year, our kids took turns mashing the potatoes, each trying to prove who had the strongest arm. The end result was a bowl of slightly lumpy potatoes, but we all agreed they tasted better because everyone had pitched in. That’s the beauty of Thanksgiving — the imperfections become the memories.

Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

Ingredients:

• 5 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes
• 1 stick butter
• 1 cup milk (or cream for richer flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Turkey drippings for gravy
• 2 tbsp flour

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes: Peel and cut into chunks. Boil until fork‑tender.
2. Mash: Drain, add butter and warmed milk, mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Gravy: In a pan, whisk flour into turkey drippings. Cook until thickened, season to taste.

Variations for Dietary Needs

• Dairy‑free mashed potatoes: Use olive oil and oat milk.
• Vegan gravy: Use vegetable broth and plant‑based butter.
• Low‑fat option: Swap cream for skim milk.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Add roasted garlic cloves for extra flavor.

Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t over‑mash — it makes potatoes gluey.
• Warm milk before adding for smoother texture.
• Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Use Yukon golds for creamier potatoes, russets for fluffier ones.

Mashed potatoes and gravy are the backbone of Thanksgiving dinner. Whether you prefer them creamy, rustic, or dairy‑free, they’re the dish that brings comfort to every plate. In our family, they’re more than food — they’re a tradition of teamwork, laughter, and second helpings.

Share your favorite twist on mashed potatoes — garlic, cheesy, or classic?