Ingredients:
For the Rolls:
1 cup mashed potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes, peeled and boiled)
1 cup warm milk (110°F)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup sugar
1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
2 large eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
4 to 5 cups all-purpose flour
For Brushing:
2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing tops)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Cook and Mash Potatoes: Peel and boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, then mash them until smooth. Allow the mashed potatoes to cool slightly before adding to the dough.
Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the yeast becomes foamy.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture. Stir until well combined.
Add Flour: Gradually add 4 cups of flour and the salt to the wet ingredients, stirring to form a soft dough. Add more flour, 1/4 cup at a time, if the dough is too sticky. The dough should be soft but not overly sticky.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 3: Shape and Second Rise
Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12-15 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball.
Second Rise: Place the dough balls into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish or onto a lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each roll. Cover with a towel and let the rolls rise again for 30-45 minutes until they have doubled in size.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the Rolls: Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
Brush with Butter: As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush the tops with melted butter for a shiny, soft crust.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Fluffy Potato Dinner Rolls warm with butter, or alongside your favorite main course.
Tips for Perfect Rolls:
Use leftover mashed potatoes: This recipe is great for using up leftover mashed potatoes, just make sure they’re smooth and lump-free.
Check dough consistency: The dough should be soft and a little tacky, but not too sticky. Add flour gradually to avoid making the dough too dense.
Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.