Vegan Whipped Potatoes
There’s something timeless and comforting about a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes as the perfect side dish on any dinner table but we especially appreciate this dish on the Thanksgiving table. This year, we’re keeping that beloved tradition alive—just with a lighter, plant-based twist. These Vegan Whipped Potatoes are every bit as rich and velvety as the classic version, made with Yukon Gold potatoes, warm oat milk, and a touch of olive oil for that luscious texture. The result is a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome, with subtle garlic notes and a buttery finish. Whether you’re serving a fully vegan feast or simply looking for a dairy-free side that everyone will love, this recipe brings all the cozy, nostalgic flavors of the holidays—no compromise necessary.
🥔 Vegan Whipped Potatoes (Serves 4–6)
Ingredients:
2 pounds Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
2 cloves garlic, peeled (optional, for flavor)
1 tablespoon kosher salt (for boiling water)
1/2 cup unsweetened oat milk (or almond milk), warmed
1/4 cup vegan butter (such as Miyoko’s or Earth Balance), melted
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped chives or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Boil the potatoes:
Add the peeled and chopped potatoes (and garlic, if using) to a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook until potatoes are very tender — about 15–20 minutes.Drain and dry:
Drain the potatoes well and return them to the warm pot. Let sit for 1–2 minutes to allow steam to escape (this helps keep them fluffy).Mash or whip:
Using a hand mixer, stand mixer, or potato masher, begin mashing the potatoes. Slowly add in the melted vegan butter, olive oil, and warm oat milk. Continue whipping until smooth and creamy.Add seasoning:
season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.Serve:
Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle lightly with olive oil or melted vegan butter, and top with fresh chives or parsley.
As Thanksgiving draws near, there’s something truly comforting about a bowl of creamy whipped potatoes on the table — warm, fluffy, and indulgent in the best way. These Vegan Whipped Potatoes deliver all the richness and nostalgia of the classic dish, but with a modern, plant-based twist that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a fully vegan feast or simply adding a few more vegetable-forward options to your holiday spread, this recipe offers a delicious reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to rely on dairy or heavy ingredients to feel luxurious and satisfying.
The beauty of this plant-based dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, whipped to perfection with oat milk, vegan butter, and olive oil, become impossibly creamy while maintaining that signature, velvety texture we crave. The natural starches of the potatoes, paired with the subtle richness of olive oil and the buttery depth of plant-based butter, create an earthy yet elevated flavor profile. A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens every bite.
What makes these vegan whipped potatoes especially fitting for Thanksgiving is the spirit they embody — inclusion, nourishment, and gratitude. Plant-based dishes like this one invite everyone at the table to partake, regardless of dietary preferences or restrictions. By choosing vegan ingredients, you’re not only offering a lighter, more digestible side but also one that supports sustainability and compassion. Reducing animal-based ingredients lowers the dish’s environmental footprint, conserves resources, and celebrates the bounty that plants provide.
Nutritionally, this recipe proves that indulgence and wellness can coexist beautifully. Potatoes are naturally high in potassium and vitamin C, while olive oil contributes heart-healthy fats that support cardiovascular well-being. Oat milk and vegan butter provide creaminess without cholesterol, making this side dish lighter on the stomach yet equally comforting. For those exploring a plant-based diet, swapping in dishes like these throughout the holidays is an easy and satisfying way to make mindful choices that benefit both body and planet.
Beyond the health and sustainability benefits, there’s an emotional resonance to serving plant-based dishes during the holidays. They connect us to the essence of what Thanksgiving represents — gratitude for the earth’s harvest, the abundance of seasonal produce, and the joy of cooking with intention. Every spoonful of these vegan whipped potatoes captures the warmth of tradition while embracing a forward-thinking approach to food and wellness.
As you gather with loved ones this year — whether your table is overflowing with classic dishes, innovative plant-based recipes, or a blend of both — these vegan whipped potatoes offer a reminder that comfort food can be both nostalgic and nourishing. They pair beautifully with everything from roasted vegetables and mushroom gravy to lentil loaves and cranberry relish, effortlessly complementing any Thanksgiving menu.
In the end, it’s about more than just what’s on the plate. It’s about creating space for everyone at the table, honoring our bodies with wholesome food, and celebrating the small acts of love that go into every dish. These vegan whipped potatoes are more than a side dish — they’re a celebration of mindful cooking, shared gratitude, and the simple joy of gathering around good food.
