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Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

This creamy mashed potatoes recipe is a quick and easy way to make luscious, fluffy mashed potatoes that melt in your mouth. Ready in under 30 minutes, it uses simple pantry staples to achieve a perfectly smooth texture and rich buttery flavor. Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, these mashed potatoes can be customized with herbs, cheeses, or dairy alternatives to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 large Russet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and cut into chunks
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup whole milk or cream, warmed
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for boiling water
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic (optional, for boiling water or melted butter)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Peel the Potatoes: Peel the Russet potatoes and cut them into equal-sized chunks to ensure uniform cooking and a lump-free, smooth texture.
  2. Boil the Potatoes Until Tender: Place the potato chunks in a large pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil. Boil for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender but not mushy.
  3. Drain and Return to Pot: Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the hot pot. Let them sit over low heat for 1-2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture and prevent watery mashed potatoes.
  4. Mash Potatoes to Desired Texture: Using a potato masher, ricer, or electric hand mixer on low speed, gently mash the potatoes to your preferred consistency. Avoid overmixing to prevent a gummy texture.
  5. Add Butter and Warm Milk: Gently heat the butter and milk together until warm. Pour the warm mixture into the mashed potatoes and stir gently to combine and create a silky smooth texture.
  6. Season and Mix Thoroughly: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasoning. Taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

Notes

  • Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for fluffier mashed potatoes.
  • Avoid overmixing to prevent gummy texture.
  • Warm your butter and milk before adding them to keep the mash silky and smooth.
  • Add salt to boiling water to season potatoes deeply.
  • Allow excess water to evaporate from drained potatoes to avoid watery mash.
  • Use a potato ricer for ultra-smooth, lump-free mashed potatoes.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy mashed potatoes, mashed potatoes recipe, quick mashed potatoes, easy side dish, buttery mashed potatoes