These mashed potatoes are rich, creamy, and buttery with the perfect fluffy texture. Made with simple ingredients, they are the ultimate comfort food for any meal. Whether you serve them as a side for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a weeknight dinner, they’ll always be a hit!
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup sour cream (optional for extra richness)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional for garlic mashed potatoes)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Potatoes
- Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a teaspoon of salt to season them as they cook.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the warm pot to remove excess moisture.
2. Mash the Potatoes
- Using a potato masher, ricer, or hand mixer, mash the potatoes until smooth.
- Warm the milk in a small saucepan or microwave (this prevents it from cooling the potatoes).
- Add the butter, warm milk, and sour cream to the potatoes. Stir until combined.
3. Season and Serve
- Add salt, pepper, and garlic (if using), then mix well. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Mashed Potatoes
✔️ Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the best texture. Yukon Golds are naturally creamy, while Russets are fluffy and light.
✔️ Start with cold water when boiling the potatoes to ensure even cooking.
✔️ Warm the milk and butter before adding to prevent cooling the potatoes.
✔️ Don’t overmix—overworked potatoes can become gluey.
Variations
???? Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Sauté minced garlic in butter before mixing it in.
???? Cheesy Mashed Potatoes – Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese for extra flavor.
???? Loaded Mashed Potatoes – Top with crispy bacon, chives, and cheddar cheese.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
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