Mashed Potatoes Recipe: Creamy, Buttery, and Easy to Make
Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and irresistibly smooth. Whether served as a cozy side dish for weeknight dinners or as a festive favorite during holidays, this classic mashed potatoes recipe never fails to impress. Made with simple ingredients like potatoes, butter, and milk, it’s easy to prepare yet packed with flavor. In this article, you’ll discover the perfect method to make fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes every time. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this guide will walk you through the process, share helpful tips, and show how to elevate your mashed potatoes to restaurant quality.
Ingredients Of Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Why You Will Love This Mashed Potatoes Recipe
This mashed potatoes recipe is a winner because it’s both classic and customizable. The result is velvety, buttery potatoes with just the right amount of seasoning. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or add creative twists like garlic, cheese, or herbs. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but also elegant enough for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners. Plus, it pairs well with nearly any main dish—from roasted meats to vegetarian options.
Preparation Process Of Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Start by selecting the right type of potato—Russet or Yukon Gold work best for their fluffy and creamy textures. Peel and cut the potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Boil until fork-tender, then drain and mash while still warm. Add melted butter and warm milk gradually to reach the desired creaminess. Season with salt and pepper, and mix until smooth and lump-free. Garnish with herbs for a fresh touch.
Step By Step Instructions
Peel and Cut the Potatoes
Start by peeling 2 pounds of Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Cut them into evenly sized chunks, about 1.5 inches each, to ensure they cook at the same rate and become uniformly soft when boiled.
Boil the Potatoes
Place the chopped potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water, ensuring the water level is about 1 inch above the potatoes. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to season the water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and simmer for 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain and Steam Dry the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are fully cooked, drain them in a colander. Immediately return them to the hot pot and set it over low heat. Let the potatoes sit for 1–2 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally to evaporate any remaining moisture. This helps avoid watery mashed potatoes.
Mash the Potatoes
Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash the potatoes thoroughly while they are still hot. This is the key to achieving a light, fluffy texture without lumps.
Add Butter and Warm Milk
Melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter and warm 1/2 cup of whole milk in a small saucepan or microwave. Gradually pour the butter and milk mixture into the mashed potatoes while stirring gently with a wooden spoon or hand mixer on low. Continue mixing until the potatoes are smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed to reach your preferred consistency.
Season to Taste
Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Stir well and taste. Adjust seasoning if necessary. You can also add 1–2 cloves of roasted garlic for a savory twist, or mix in herbs like parsley or chives for a fresh finish.
Serve Warm
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Add a small pat of butter on top and sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
How to Serve?
- As a classic side with roast chicken or turkey
- Topped with gravy for extra indulgence
- Paired with grilled or pan-seared steak
- As a base for shepherd’s pie
- With sautéed mushrooms or vegetables for a vegetarian option
Tips & Variations
Use warm milk and melted butter to prevent the potatoes from cooling down.
Avoid over-mixing to keep the texture light and fluffy.
Add roasted garlic for a rich, savory depth.
Mix in sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Use half-and-half instead of milk for a richer version.
Try plant-based milk and butter for a vegan option.
Garnish with crispy bacon bits or shredded cheddar for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
Recipe Card
Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Course: Banana Bread Recipe4-6 people
servings10
minutes20
minutes250
kcalThis creamy mashed potatoes recipe is the perfect side dish for any occasion. With just a few pantry staples—potatoes, butter, and milk—you can create fluffy, rich mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is simple to make and packed with classic flavor. Customize with garlic, herbs, or cheese for a personal twist. It’s comfort food at its best, easy to prepare, and loved by everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
Unsalted butter
Whole milk (or heavy cream for richer flavor)
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Garlic (optional, for added flavor)
Fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Peel and Cut the Potatoes
- Start by peeling 2 pounds of Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Cut them into evenly sized chunks, about 1.5 inches each, to ensure they cook at the same rate and become uniformly soft when boiled.
- Boil the Potatoes
- Place the chopped potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water, ensuring the water level is about 1 inch above the potatoes. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to season the water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and simmer for 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain and Steam Dry the Potatoes
- Once the potatoes are fully cooked, drain them in a colander. Immediately return them to the hot pot and set it over low heat. Let the potatoes sit for 1–2 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally to evaporate any remaining moisture. This helps avoid watery mashed potatoes.
- Mash the Potatoes
- Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash the potatoes thoroughly while they are still hot. This is the key to achieving a light, fluffy texture without lumps.
- Add Butter and Warm Milk
- Melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter and warm 1/2 cup of whole milk in a small saucepan or microwave. Gradually pour the butter and milk mixture into the mashed potatoes while stirring gently with a wooden spoon or hand mixer on low. Continue mixing until the potatoes are smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed to reach your preferred consistency.
- Season to Taste
- Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Stir well and taste. Adjust seasoning if necessary. You can also add 1–2 cloves of roasted garlic for a savory twist, or mix in herbs like parsley or chives for a fresh finish.
- Serve Warm
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Add a small pat of butter on top and sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Yukon Gold potatoes yield a creamier mash, while Russet potatoes provide a fluffier texture.
- For smoother mashed potatoes, a potato ricer works better than a masher.
- If preparing ahead, reheat slowly with a bit of milk and butter stirred in.
FAQs
Conclusion
Mashed potatoes are a timeless, crowd-pleasing dish that’s simple to make yet incredibly satisfying. With the right ingredients, technique, and a little love, you can create a side dish that’s creamy, buttery, and perfect for any meal. Whether you’re planning a festive dinner or just need a comforting side, this mashed potatoes recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors and add-ins to make it your own—just don’t forget the butter!
