Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food, perfect as a side dish for any meal. Whether served with roasted meats, vegetables, or gravy, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. Achieving the perfect creamy texture requires the right balance of ingredients, technique, and patience. In this recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step to make the most delicious, smooth, and flavorful mashed potatoes that will impress your family and guests.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (900g) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk or heavy cream
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic (optional, for extra flavor)
- ¼ cup (60ml) sour cream (optional, for added creaminess)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Choose the Right Potatoes
- Use starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet for the best creamy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes as they tend to become gummy when mashed.
- Peel and Cut the Potatoes
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks. This ensures even cooking and prevents some pieces from becoming too soft while others remain undercooked.
- Boil the Potatoes
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to enhance their flavor.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender.
- Drain and Dry the Potatoes
- Once the potatoes are soft, drain them in a colander and let them sit for a minute to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Drying the potatoes slightly helps achieve a fluffier texture.
- Heat the Milk and Butter
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter melts completely. Warm milk blends better with potatoes and keeps them soft and creamy.
- Mash the Potatoes
- Use a potato masher, ricer, or hand mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth. Avoid over-mixing, as this can result in a gluey texture.
- Incorporate the Milk Mixture
- Gradually add the warm milk and butter mixture while stirring to combine. This helps the potatoes absorb the liquid evenly, making them light and fluffy.
- Add Sour Cream and Seasoning
- Mix in sour cream for extra richness and tanginess.
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
- For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle with melted butter before serving.
Tips for the Best Mashed Potatoes
- Always start with cold water when boiling potatoes. Adding them to already boiling water can lead to uneven cooking.
- Avoid using a blender or food processor, as it can make mashed potatoes gluey. Stick to a masher or ricer for the best texture.
- Don’t skimp on butter—it adds flavor and creaminess.
- If you prefer lighter mashed potatoes, substitute half of the butter with olive oil for a healthier alternative.
- Make-ahead tip: To keep mashed potatoes warm before serving, place them in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water and cover with a lid. Stir occasionally.