As summer rolls in, the scent of grilled meats and fresh produce fills the air. What better companion to a juicy burger than a fluffy, flavorful potato bun? It’s the unsung hero of any BBQ, elevating your meal from good to exceptional. Today, I’m sharing an incredible Shake Shack potato bun recipe that you won’t want to miss. But first, let’s pair it with some delicious options!
Imagine your backyard buzzing with laughter, the grill sizzling, and the table adorned with summer’s bounty. The potato buns will be the cornerstone of your feast, enhancing each dish with their fluffy, flavorful texture. Pair them with juicy burgers—whether beef, chicken, or a hearty veggie patty—and savor the delightful touch they add.
For a savory twist, try them with pulled pork coated in barbecue sauce, where the softness of the bun makes each bite heavenly. Opt for shredded chicken salad for a healthier option that balances texture and taste, or veggie sliders that serve as a flavor-packed choice for everyone.
Don’t forget about marinated and grilled portobello mushrooms, which can stand alone as a satisfying meal. With your taste buds tingling, it’s time to dive into the recipe.
I discovered Shake Shack’s potato buns during a visit to New York. These buns are fluffy, tender, and slightly sweet. The first bite was a game changer. Both nostalgic and elevated, it perfectly complements any filling. After several attempts in my kitchen, I’ve adapted their recipe to help you recreate that magic.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires just a handful of ingredients and a bit of time—but trust me, the results will be worth every minute. Let’s unpack this delicious dish!
What is Shake Shack Potato Bun?
Shake Shack’s potato buns are a type of soft roll made with mashed potatoes, giving them a unique, moist texture. They’re not just ordinary buns. They carry a hint of sweetness and a satisfying fluffy quality. This recipe uses potatoes to provide both taste and moisture, making it the perfect base for your favorite fillings.
How Does It Taste Like?
Biting into a Shake Shack potato bun is a small moment of culinary bliss. It’s soft yet sturdy enough to hold up against juicy burgers or tangy pulled meats without falling apart. The gentle sweetness from the potato shines through, beautifully balanced with a subtle hint of garlic powder and chives. Imagine that warm, comforting feeling you get when you taste your favorite childhood dish—that’s what this bun delivers.
Why You’ll Love This?
- Fluffy Goodness: These buns are unlike any you can find at the store.
- Versatile: They complement various fillings, from meats to grilled vegetables.
- Make Ahead: Perfect for summer gatherings, they can be prepared in advance.
- Customizable: Add herbs or spices to suit your taste.
- Healthy Twist: Using potatoes means these buns have an added nutritional boost, bringing in fiber and vitamins.
Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have these ingredients ready:
- 350 grams of all-purpose flour
- 6 grams active dry yeast
- 6 grams fine sea salt
- 2 tablespoons room-temperature butter
- 1 large russet potato (minimum 300 grams)
- Mashed russet potatoes combined with butter
- Potato cooking liquid mixed with egg and sugar
- 1 beaten egg
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Potato
Start by peeling the large russet potato. Cut it into cubes and boil them until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. You’ll want to reserve some of the cooking liquid for later. After draining, mash the potatoes until smooth. Let them cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Activate Yeast
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, activate the yeast. Mix it with 1/4 cup of warm water (not hot!). Add 1 tablespoon of sugar, wait five to ten minutes until it becomes frothy.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, garlic powder, and chopped chives. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the dry ingredients along with the mashed potatoes, butter, and the reserved potato cooking liquid.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Knead the mixture until smooth—about 10 minutes. If you’re using a stand mixer, the dough hook attachment will make this easier. The dough should be pliable and not stick to your hands.
Step 5: Let It Rise
After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape the Buns
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions, shaping each piece into a round bun. Place these on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them space to expand.
Step 7: Second Rise
Now, cover the shaped buns with the damp cloth again and allow them to rise for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 8: Brush and Bake
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush this mixture over the buns just before baking. It will add a lovely shine. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. You can slice them once they’re completely cool, or serve them warm straight from the oven.
Tips On Making Shake Shack Potato Bun
- Choose Quality Potatoes: Opt for russets; they have the right texture and flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Rising Times: Allowing the dough to rise properly is key for softness.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Try incorporating herbs or spices into the dough for added flavor.
- Use a Dough Scraper: It makes transferring and dividing the dough much easier.
- Store Them Correctly: Keep baked buns in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Information
How Do You Store This Shake Shack Potato Bun?
Once cooled, you can store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just ensure they are well-wrapped in plastic wraps and stored in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw them at room temperature before warming them in the oven.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Shake Shack Potato Bun?
If you can’t get your hands on all the ingredients or simply want to mix things up, consider these substitutes:
- Sweet Potatoes: They can replace russets for a slightly different flavor and added sweetness.
- Whole Wheat Flour: This gives a nuttier taste and more fiber. Adjust the kneading time as needed.
- Olive Oil: Swap butter for olive oil for a Mediterranean twist and potentially healthier option.
- Garlic Powder Alternatives: Consider fresh minced garlic for a more intense flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Replace chives with parsley or basil depending on your dish’s requirements.
Shake Shack Potato Bun Recipe
Equipment
- Small bowl
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 350 grams of all-purpose flour
- 6 grams active dry yeast
- 6 grams fine sea salt
- 2 tablespoons room-temperature butter
- 1 large russet potato minimum 300 grams
- Mashed russet potatoes combined with butter
- Potato cooking liquid mixed with egg and sugar
- 1 beaten egg
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Start by peeling the large russet potato. Cut it into cubes and boil them until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. You’ll want to reserve some of the cooking liquid for later. After draining, mash the potatoes until smooth. Let them cool to room temperature.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, activate the yeast. Mix it with 1/4 cup of warm water (not hot!). Add 1 tablespoon of sugar, wait five to ten minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, garlic powder, and chopped chives. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the dry ingredients along with the mashed potatoes, butter, and the reserved potato cooking liquid.
- Knead the mixture until smooth—about 10 minutes. If you’re using a stand mixer, the dough hook attachment will make this easier. The dough should be pliable and not stick to your hands.
- After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions, shaping each piece into a round bun. Place these on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them space to expand.
- Now, cover the shaped buns with the damp cloth again and allow them to rise for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush this mixture over the buns just before baking. It will add a lovely shine. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. You can slice them once they’re completely cool, or serve them warm straight from the oven.
Notes
- Choose Quality Potatoes: Opt for russets; they have the right texture and flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Rising Times: Allowing the dough to rise properly is key for softness.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Try incorporating herbs or spices into the dough for added flavor.
- Use a Dough Scraper: It makes transferring and dividing the dough much easier.
- Store Them Correctly: Keep baked buns in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
These Shake Shack potato buns are not just another recipe; they’re a little piece of happiness you can share with friends and family. They bring an inviting softness to burgers, a comforting quality to pulled pork, and an excitement to any veggie slider. With straightforward instructions and a few key ingredients, you’ll be surprised by how easily you can bring this delectable dish to your kitchen.
So fire up your grill, throw on your favorite fillings, and enjoy the summer vibes with this delicious potato bun recipe. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make these again and again. Here’s to delicious summer feasts and cherished memories around the grill!
