The Secret Ingredient for the Best-Ever Mashed Potatoes, According to Oprah

Oprah Winfrey, the queen of inspiration and all things heartfelt, has an undeniable passion for great food. From her legendary love of bread (we all remember her iconic declaration, “I love bread!”) to her indulgent Southern-style favorites, Oprah always finds a way to celebrate the joy of eating.

During my search for more delicious recipes for this holiday season, I came across a recipe for Oprah’s famed mashed potatoes. When I read through the recipe, I noticed an ingredient I wasn’t expecting, which inspired me to get in the kitchen and give the recipe a try. Would Oprah’s mashed potatoes be worthy of a spot in my Thanksgiving spread? Here’s how it went when I made them.              

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Ingredients for Oprah’s Mashed Potatoes

To make Ophrah’s mashed potatoes, you’ll need red potatoes, Idaho potatoes, butter, prepared horseradish, heavy cream, kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Get the recipe: Oprah’s Mashed Potatoes

How to Make Oprah’s Mashed Potatoes

Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly, leaving the skins on for added texture and flavor. Cut the red potatoes in half and the Russet potatoes into large pieces (roughly the size of the halved red potatoes) and place them in a large pot. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the potatoes completely. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are very tender. 

Drain the potatoes well and add butter while they’re still hot. Begin hand-mashing the potatoes, then add the remaining ingredients and continue to mash, leaving them slightly lumpy for a rustic vibe.

Related: The Secret Ingredient to Better Mashed Potatoes

What I Thought of Oprah’s Mashed Potatoes

Oprah’s mashed potatoes were a delightful twist on my usual homemade recipe. These potatoes had a rustic charm but were also smooth and creamy. They were indulgent without being overly rich. The standout element was the addition of horseradish, which introduced a subtle yet distinctive kick that elevated the dish. The horseradish wasn’t overpowering but provided an unexpected depth that I found refreshing. 

Related: How Many Pounds of Potatoes Do You Need Per Person for Dinner?

What made this recipe particularly enjoyable was its simplicity. The process was straightforward and beginner-friendly, making it an ideal choice for both casual weeknight dinners and more elaborate meals—like Thanksgiving or Christmas. I served these mashed potatoes alongside braised beef short ribs with caramelized carrots, and they complemented each other beautifully.

This experience has inspired me to incorporate these mashed potatoes into my rotation of go-to recipes, especially when I’m looking for a side dish that’s familiar yet has a touch of sophistication.

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