Mashed potatoes are creamy, fluffy, and oh-so-comforting! Made with just potatoes, butter, and a splash of milk, they’re a classic side that everyone loves.
I like to add a bit of garlic for extra flavor, but you can keep it simple too. Just beware of that fourth helping—you might need stretchy pants! 😂
These mashed potatoes are so easy to whip up. Boil, mash, and mix—quick and satisfying for any meal. You can also spice them up with toppings like cheese or herbs!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are my favorite for their creamy texture, but Russet potatoes work great too. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, try cauliflower mash as a substitute!
Milk or Cream: Whole milk makes for a classic mash, but feel free to use heavy cream for extra richness. Almond or oat milk can also work if you’re dairy-free.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the best choice, as it lets you control the salt level. If you’re looking to cut back on dairy, try vegan butter or olive oil.
Seasoning: Salt and pepper are essential, but adding garlic powder, chives, or even a sprinkle of grated cheese can elevate the flavor!
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Texture for My Mashed Potatoes?
The key to fluffy mashed potatoes lies in both the cooking and mashing process. Follow these steps:
- Start with cold water in the pot. This helps cook the potatoes evenly all the way through.
- Don’t overcook the potatoes. When they’re fork-tender, it’s time to drain them. Overcooked potatoes can become gummy.
- Allow the drained potatoes to sit for a minute to remove excess moisture before mashing.
- Use a ricer or a masher—ricers create a super smooth texture without overworking the potatoes.
- Gradually mix in warm milk and melted butter to avoid cooling down the mash and to achieve creaminess.
Follow these tips and you’ll have mashed potatoes that are light, fluffy, and a hit at any meal!
Delicious Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream, warmed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and chopping the potatoes, 15-20 minutes cooking them, and about 5 minutes mixing everything together. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by placing the peeled and cut potatoes into a large pot. Cover them with cold water, making sure there’s about an inch of water above the potatoes. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt to the water—it helps add flavor!
2. Boil the Potatoes:
Turn the heat to high and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the potatoes until they’re fork-tender, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes. You can poke a piece with a fork to check its doneness—it should break apart easily!
3. Drain and Dry the Potatoes:
When the potatoes are ready, carefully drain them in a colander. Return the drained potatoes to the pot and let them sit for a minute. This helps them dry out a bit, which is key for creamy mashed potatoes.
4. Mash the Potatoes:
Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash the potatoes until they reach a smooth consistency. Don’t worry about getting them perfectly smooth at this stage; you can adjust in the next steps!
5. Heat the Milk and Butter:
In a small saucepan, combine the warmed milk (or cream) and butter. Heat them together over low heat until the butter is fully melted and everything is nice and warm.
6. Combine Ingredients:
Now, gradually add the warm milk-butter mixture to the mashed potatoes. Stir gently until the potatoes are creamy and well-mixed. If you prefer a softer mash, feel free to add a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Season to Taste:
Taste your mashed potatoes and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Remember, a little seasoning goes a long way!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the fluffy mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. You can drizzle a bit of melted butter on top for that extra touch of deliciousness, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if you’d like. Serve warm and enjoy!
Your creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes are ready to steal the show! Perfect alongside your favorite main dishes.
Can I Use Any Type of Potato for Mashed Potatoes?
While Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are the best choices for creamy mashed potatoes, you can also use red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture!
How Can I Make My Mashed Potatoes Extra Creamy?
To achieve extra creaminess, use heavy cream instead of milk, and ensure that both your milk and butter are warm before mixing them into the potatoes. Additionally, avoid over-mashing to prevent them from becoming gummy.
Can I Make Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare mashed potatoes ahead of time! Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen them up if needed.
What Can I Add to Flavor My Mashed Potatoes?
There are endless ways to flavor your mashed potatoes! Try adding roasted garlic, fresh herbs like chives or thyme, cheese such as Parmesan, or even a sprinkle of paprika for a bit of kick.