Description
This Creamy Mashed Potatoes recipe is a comforting classic side dish featuring a silky smooth texture, rich buttery flavor, and balanced seasoning. Perfectly fluffy and velvety, it pairs beautifully with roasted meats or stands alone as a satisfying comfort food. Easy to customize and made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s an ideal addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds Russet Potatoes, peeled and cut into 1.5 to 2 inch chunks
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, softened
- 1/2 cup Whole Milk or Cream, warmed
- 1 teaspoon Salt (plus extra for boiling water)
- 1/4 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 2 cloves Garlic (optional, minced or roasted)
Instructions
- Choose and Prepare Your Potatoes: Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into even chunks about 1.5 to 2 inches to ensure even cooking.
- Boil the Potatoes Until Tender: Place the potato chunks in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
- Drain and Dry the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes thoroughly, return them to the hot pot off the heat, and let them sit for 1-2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture, keeping the mash fluffy.
- Mash and Combine Ingredients: Using a potato masher, ricer, or hand mixer, gently mash the potatoes. Gradually add the softened butter, stirring until melted and incorporated. Slowly pour in the warmed milk or cream until the desired creamy consistency is reached. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir in garlic if using.
- Final Taste Test and Adjust: Taste your mashed potatoes and add more seasoning if needed. For silkier potatoes, add a bit more warm cream. For chunkier texture, mash less thoroughly.
Notes
- Warm the butter and milk before adding to keep the potatoes hot and blend smoothly.
- Avoid overmixing to prevent a gluey or gummy texture.
- Salt the boiling water generously to season potatoes internally.
- Use starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon Golds for best texture.
- Drain potatoes well to avoid watery mashed potatoes.
- Customize with cheese, herbs, or substitute ingredients for dietary preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 recipe (about 3/4 cup)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: mashed potatoes, creamy potatoes, comfort food, side dish, classic recipe, easy mashed potatoes