Mashed potatoes are a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. Fluffy and smooth, they’re made with simple ingredients like potatoes, butter, and milk!
Who doesn’t love a big scoop of mashed potatoes? I like to add a sprinkle of garlic or cheese on top for extra yum! They’re my go-to side for making meals feel special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: For the best texture, use russet or Yukon gold potatoes. They mash well and give a creamy finish. If you prefer a healthier option, you can swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is typically best as it lets you control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, you can use olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. I personally love the richness butter adds!
Milk: Whole milk creates creaminess, but any milk will do, including almond or oat milk for a non-dairy option. I sometimes use sour cream or cream cheese for a tangy twist in flavor.
Seasonings: Salt and pepper are essentials, but don’t shy away from adding garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can elevate the dish, adding both color and taste.
How Do I Make My Mashed Potatoes Extra Creamy?
To achieve that fluffy, creamy texture, follow these steps closely:
- Start with cold water when boiling potatoes. This ensures even cooking.
- Don’t rush the cooking time! Potatoes should be tender enough to easily pierce with a fork.
- After draining, return the hot potatoes to the pot for a minute. This step removes excess moisture.
- Use a ricer or potato masher for the smoothest results. Avoid using a blender, as it can make the potatoes gummy.
- Warm your milk slightly before mixing it in; this helps the potatoes absorb it better.
Taking these steps ensures you’ll have deliciously creamy mashed potatoes every time. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Delicious Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warm)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes cooking the potatoes and just a few minutes preparing and serving them. Perfect for a quick and hearty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Potatoes:
Start by placing the peeled and cut potatoes into a large pot. Cover the potatoes with cold water, making sure the water is about an inch above the potatoes. Add a pinch of salt to the water to flavor the potatoes while they cook. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
2. Cook Until Tender:
Once the water is boiling, lower the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer. Keep cookin’ until they are very tender and can be pierced easily with a fork—this will take about 15 to 20 minutes.
3. Drain and Steam Dry:
Carefully drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the hot pot. This step helps evaporate any excess moisture, which is key for creamy mashed potatoes.
4. Mash the Potatoes:
Use a potato masher or a ricer to mash the potatoes to your desired level of smoothness. Make sure to get rid of any lumps for that dreamy texture!
5. Mix in Butter and Milk:
In a small saucepan or microwave, warm the milk slightly and melt the butter. Gradually pour the butter and warm milk mixture into the mashed potatoes, stirring gently. Keep mixing until everything is creamy and smooth. If you like them a bit thinner, add more warm milk until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Season to Perfection:
Time to flavor it up! Season the mashed potatoes generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting as you go to make sure it’s just right.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the fluffy mashed potatoes into a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if you like a little color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy every bite!
And there you have it—perfectly creamy mashed potatoes that are sure to be a hit at your table!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While russet and Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can also use red potatoes. Just keep in mind that they might be a bit waxier and result in a slightly different texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free spread, and use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk. This will create a delicious vegan version of mashed potatoes!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to get creative! You can add roasted garlic, cream cheese, sour cream, or even grated cheese for an extra flavor twist. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also add a delightful aroma and taste!
