In a medium pot filled with boiling water, add the diced potato. Cook until very tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. 

Drain the potatoes and let them stand and air dry for a bit in a colander, about 5 minutes. Using a potato ricer, run the potatoes, a few scoops at a time, through the ricer and back into the pot. Repeat until you’ve worked your way through all of the potatoes. 

Turn the flame up to medium low. Add the smoked gouda, creme fraiche or sour cream, milk or half and half, freshly ground pepper and two tablespoons butter, along with a few pinches of salt. Give it a stir and allow to warm through, about 1 to 2 minutes. Stir until everything is incorporated. Give it a taste and adjust for salt. Turn the heat to low and cover with a lid so it can stay warm while you make the browned butter.

In a small saucepan, set over medium heat, add the butter and swirl until melted. The butter will go from all foamy to having little speckles of brown bits. Continue to stir until it’s mostly brown. Immediately remove from the heat and set aside. 

Serve the potatoes with a drizzle of brown butter on top and a sprinkling of fresh chives