Description
Hey there! Say goodbye to boring mashed potatoes and hello to Monster Mash Potatoes—a vibrant, creamy, and delightfully spooky side dish. With deep purple mashed potatoes and creepy olive “eyeballs,” this recipe turns a classic comfort food into a Halloween centerpiece that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or any festive occasion!
Ingredients
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2 lbs purple potatoes (Peruvian or Yukon Gold + optional mashed beets for color)
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¼ cup unsalted butter (or plant-based alternative)
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½ cup milk or cream, warmed (dairy or unsweetened plant-based)
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Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
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12 green olives with pimentos (eyeball whites)
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12 black olive slices (pupils)
Instructions
1. Prep the Potatoes
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Peel and cube potatoes into 1-inch pieces for even cooking. (Leave skins on for rustic texture if desired.)
2. Boil Until Tender
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Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold, salted water, and bring to a boil.
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Reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
3. Drain & Steam
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Drain potatoes thoroughly and let them sit for 1–2 minutes to release excess moisture.
4. Mash & Mix
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Return potatoes to the warm pot. Add butter and warmed milk/cream.
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Mash with a potato masher or ricer until smooth and fluffy.
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Season generously with salt and pepper, tasting as you go.
5. Create the Eyeballs
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Spoon mashed potatoes into a serving bowl, shaping them into a mound or fun “monster” form.
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Press green olives into the mash for the eyeball whites. Place a black olive slice in the center of each green olive for pupils.
Notes
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Color Hack: Add a splash of lemon juice to cooking water to maintain vibrant purple.
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Texture: Avoid overworking potatoes to prevent gluey mash.
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Make Ahead: Mash potatoes (without olives) up to 2 days in advance. Reheat gently with extra milk or butter. Add olives before serving.
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Creative Twists:
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Vampire’s Kiss: Add roasted garlic cloves while mashing. Top with slivered almond “fangs.”
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Green Goblin Goo: Use russet potatoes with steamed broccoli for a green monster mash.
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Boo-tiful Buffalo Blue: Fold in crumbled blue cheese and buffalo sauce for adults.
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Bride of Frankenstein: Swirl purple and white potato mashes together for a marbled effect.
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Nutrition
- Calories: 180cal Per Serving
- Protein: 3 g