Description
Duchess potatoes are a classic French side dish that transforms mashed potatoes into an elegant, golden-baked masterpiece. Made with buttery, creamy potatoes enriched with egg yolks, these beautifully piped swirls are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Perfect for holiday dinners or special occasions, they pair well with roasted meats, poultry, and vegetarian dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes:
- Place peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- Mash the Potatoes:
- Return drained potatoes to the pot and mash until smooth.
- For the best texture, use a potato ricer or food mill.
- Incorporate Dairy and Seasonings:
- Stir in melted butter, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg.
- Add Egg Yolks:
- Let the potato mixture cool slightly, then mix in egg yolks.
- If using Parmesan cheese, fold it in now.
- Pipe the Potatoes:
- Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
- Pipe decorative swirls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill (Optional):
- Refrigerate piped potatoes for 20-30 minutes to help maintain shape during baking.
- Bake:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Brush tops with melted butter or egg wash for extra browning.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until edges turn golden brown.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 1-2 minutes.
- Make ahead: Pipe and refrigerate up to a day before baking.
- Freeze: Pipe, freeze until solid, then store in a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding extra minutes.
- No piping bag? Spoon mixture into mounds and create ridges with a fork.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
