Mashed potatoes are creamy and fluffy, making them the ultimate comfort food. With just potatoes, butter, and milk, they come together easily and taste amazing!
Honestly, I could eat these every day! They’re perfect next to any meal, and sometimes I sneak in some garlic for extra flavor. You’ll love how simple they are to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using russet or Yukon gold potatoes. They give a creamy texture. If you’re in a pinch, red potatoes work too, but they might be less fluffy.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal since you can control the salt. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try olive oil or vegan butter instead!
Milk: Whole milk adds richness. If you want to lighten it up, you can use low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk. Just know the flavor will change a bit!
Heavy Cream: This is optional but gives a luxurious texture. If you’re avoiding dairy, a full-fat coconut milk can be a nice substitute.
Seasonings: Feel free to mix it up! Add garlic powder, onion powder, or even sour cream for a different flavor profile.
How Can I Get My Mashed Potatoes Extra Creamy?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is all about technique! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with hot, drained potatoes. This helps them absorb the butter and milk more easily.
- Mash gently. Using a potato masher is great, but if you prefer a smoother consistency, use an electric mixer but don’t overmix to avoid gumminess.
- Warm your milk and butter. Cold dairy can cool down your potatoes too much. Warm them well to keep everything nice and creamy.
- Add the milk gradually. This way, you can control how creamy the potatoes become. Stop when you hit the consistency you love!
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)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend roughly 15-20 minutes cooking the potatoes and about 10 minutes mixing everything together. Quick and easy, right?
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by placing the peeled and chopped potatoes into a large pot. Fill it with cold water, making sure the potatoes are fully submerged. Add a pinch of salt for flavor.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
Bring the pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. You’ll want to cook the potatoes until they’re very tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Test them with a fork—if it goes in easily, they’re done!
3. Drain and Mash:
Carefully drain the potatoes using a colander. Then, return them to the pot. This step is important as it allows some steam to escape, making them less watery. Now, grab your potato masher or electric mixer and mash those potatoes until they’re smooth!
4. Mix in the Good Stuff:
In a small saucepan or microwave, warm the milk and butter until the butter is fully melted. Gradually pour this warm mixture into the mashed potatoes while mixing. If you want an extra creamy texture, this is where you can add the heavy cream too. Keep mixing until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Flavor It Up:
Now, it’s time to season! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well and adjust if needed. Taste-testing is always a fun part!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your fluffy mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. For that extra touch, drizzle a little melted butter on top, then garnish with the chopped parsley or chives. If you want a kick, sprinkle a few red pepper flakes on top!
Now, serve warm and enjoy your delicious, creamy mashed potatoes as the perfect side dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While russet and Yukon gold potatoes work best for that creamy texture, you can use red potatoes as well. Just keep in mind that they might not be as fluffy, but they’ll still taste delicious!
Can I Make Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and mash the potatoes a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in a warm place, or you can store them in the fridge. To reheat, add a splash of milk and warm gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to keep them creamy.
What Can I Do If My Mashed Potatoes Are Too Thick?
If your mashed potatoes seem a bit too thick for your liking, simply stir in a bit more warm milk or cream until you reach your desired consistency. Just be cautious not to over-mix to avoid a gummy texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. When reheating, add a little milk or butter to restore creaminess, and warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave.
