Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving dinner wouldn’t be complete without a bowl of mashed potatoes—fluffy, creamy, and perfectly seasoned. But if you’re avoiding dairy, either for health, allergy, or lifestyle reasons, traditional mashed potatoes loaded with milk, butter, and cream are off the table. Thankfully, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on this classic comfort food.

Dairy-free mashed potatoes are not only possible—they can be incredibly rich, smooth, and flavorful without a drop of milk or butter. Using simple swaps and whole food ingredients, you can create mashed potatoes that everyone at the table will love, from vegans and clean eaters to those with lactose intolerance.

Let’s walk through everything you need to make the best dairy-free mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving, including recipes, tips, serving suggestions, and more.

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Why Go Dairy-Free for Mashed Potatoes?

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or sticking to a specific diet, there are plenty of reasons to make dairy-free mashed potatoes this Thanksgiving:

• Lactose Intolerance or Allergies: A common concern that makes traditional mashed potatoes off-limits for some guests.

• Vegan Diet: Omitting animal-based dairy aligns with a plant-based lifestyle.

• Health Goals: Cutting back on saturated fats and processed ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

• Flavor Flexibility: Dairy-free options can open the door to nutty, herby, or even garlicky flavor profiles.

• Digestive Ease: Plant-based fats and milks can be gentler on the stomach than heavy dairy.

No matter your reason, these mashed potatoes will be just as rich and satisfying as their dairy-filled counterparts.

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Best Potatoes for Fluffy Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes

Choosing the right type of potato is crucial to nailing the texture.

Yukon Gold Potatoes – These are the gold standard for mashed potatoes. Their naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture make them perfect for dairy-free recipes.

Russet Potatoes – High in starch and very fluffy when mashed, russets absorb plant milk well but can be more prone to over-mixing, which leads to gumminess.

Red Potatoes – Waxy and smooth, but less fluffy. They can work if you like a chunkier or more rustic mash.

For the creamiest result, a 50/50 blend of Yukon Gold and Russets can offer the best of both worlds—creamy and fluffy without becoming gluey.

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Ingredients for Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes

Here’s a list of what you’ll need to make delicious dairy-free mashed potatoes from scratch.

Base Ingredients:

• 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped

• ½ to ¾ cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, oat, soy, or cashew)

• 3–4 tablespoons olive oil or dairy-free butter substitute

• 1 ½ teaspoons salt (to taste)

• Freshly ground black pepper

Optional Add-Ins:

• 3–4 garlic cloves (roasted or minced for extra flavor)

• Fresh herbs: parsley, thyme, rosemary

• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (for a slightly cheesy flavor)

• Chives or green onions

• 1–2 tablespoons tahini for nutty richness

• Splash of vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter consistency

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Step-by-Step Instructions: Creamy Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and chop your potatoes into evenly sized chunks to ensure even cooking. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water.

Add a generous pinch of salt to the water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 2: Drain and Dry

Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander. To ensure ultra-creamy mash, return the drained potatoes to the warm pot and let them sit over very low heat for 2–3 minutes to evaporate any remaining moisture.

Step 3: Mash and Mix

Mash the potatoes using a potato masher, ricer, or fork—depending on your desired texture.

Gradually add warm plant-based milk and olive oil while mashing, mixing until smooth and fluffy. Add more milk or oil as needed.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Flavor Boosters (Optional)

Fold in any desired flavor additions like roasted garlic, fresh herbs, or nutritional yeast. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Transfer to a serving bowl, top with a swirl of olive oil, sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a dusting of black pepper.

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Variations on Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes

There’s more than one way to make mashed potatoes without dairy. Here are a few delicious twists:

Olive Oil & Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil and roasted garlic for an Italian-inspired flavor.

Cashew Cream Mashed Potatoes

Blend soaked cashews with water and a pinch of salt to create your own cream substitute. Ultra-rich and satisfying.

Coconut Mashed Potatoes

Use full-fat coconut milk and a touch of ground nutmeg. Best for those who like subtle sweetness with their savory dishes.

Herb & Tahini Mashed Potatoes

Stir in a spoonful of tahini and finely chopped herbs for a nutty, Mediterranean-style mash.

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Tips for the Best Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes

• Warm your milk alternative before adding to prevent the mash from becoming gummy.

• Avoid over-mixing, especially with a blender or mixer. Overworked starches turn potatoes into glue.

• Use starchy potatoes for the fluffiest texture. Yukon Golds strike the perfect balance.

• Add fat gradually and taste often—this helps you control texture and flavor.

• Make them ahead, then reheat with a splash of plant milk or broth to revive the creaminess.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

Mashed potatoes are perfect for prepping ahead of time. Here’s how to store and reheat them without losing flavor or texture.

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pot over low heat with a splash of plant milk, stirring frequently.

Freezer

Cool completely before freezing. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently with extra liquid.

Reheat Tips

Add a bit of broth or plant milk during reheating to restore moisture. You can also reheat in the oven (covered with foil) at 350°F until warm throughout.

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What to Serve with Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with all your Thanksgiving favorites:

• Vegan Gravy: Mushroom, lentil, or onion-based gravies complement the creaminess.

• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, and squash add color and texture.

• Stuffed Squash or Plant-Based Mains: A scoop of potatoes next to a hearty main is a classic combination.

• Lentil Loaf or Chickpea Cutlets: A rich plant-based protein with mashed potatoes is incredibly comforting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best dairy-free milk for mashed potatoes?
Unsweetened almond, oat, soy, or cashew milk work best. Choose neutral flavors and avoid anything sweetened or flavored with vanilla.

Can I make mashed potatoes without oil or butter substitutes?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth or starchy cooking water for moisture. You’ll lose a bit of richness, but they’ll still be flavorful with the right seasonings.

Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Definitely. They reheat well. Just add a bit of plant-based milk or broth when reheating to maintain creaminess.

Are these mashed potatoes vegan and gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free as long as all added ingredients (like broth or seasonings) are certified gluten-free.

Can I leave the skins on?
You can! It adds texture and extra fiber. If using red potatoes or Yukon Gold, the skins are tender and delicious.

What can I use instead of olive oil?
Dairy-free butter, avocado oil, tahini, or cashew cream are great alternatives.

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Final Thoughts

Dairy-free mashed potatoes are more than just a diet-friendly substitute—they’re a flavorful, creamy, and comforting part of your holiday meal. With the right ingredients and techniques, you won’t miss the butter or milk one bit.

This Thanksgiving, serve up a bowl of mashed potatoes that everyone can enjoy, no matter their dietary needs. Rich with natural flavors, perfectly seasoned, and irresistibly creamy, this side dish might just be the highlight of your holiday table.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply trying something new, these dairy-free mashed potatoes are a must-make recipe this Thanksgiving.