Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Who doesn’t love mashed potatoes? Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, the best mashed potatoes recipe is an essential side dish that everyone enjoys. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to create perfectly fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes with just the right amount of seasoning. This dish is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Yukon Gold vs. Russet

One of the most common questions when making mashed potatoes is: which type of potato should you use? Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are the top choices, but they bring different textures and flavors to your dish.

• Yukon Gold: Known for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, Yukon Gold potatoes have thin skins that can be left on for a more rustic mash.
• Russet: These potatoes are starchy, which creates a fluffier texture. They’re perfect for a smooth, lump-free mash.

You can’t go wrong with either choice, but if you prefer a creamier mash, go with Yukon Gold. If you’re after something a bit fluffier, Russet is the way to go.

Essential Ingredients for Fluffy Mashed Potatoes

Here are the key ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:

• 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes: This is approximately 8 medium Yukon Gold or 4 medium Russet potatoes.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Be sure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Divided, with half used during boiling and the rest for seasoning the mash.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper: Add more to taste if needed.
• ½ cup whole milk: Warm the milk to make it easier to incorporate into the mashed potatoes.

These simple ingredients come together to make a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and comforting.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Potatoes

Before you start boiling, it’s essential to properly prep your potatoes to ensure a smooth, lump-free result.

1. Scrub the Potatoes

Rinse your potatoes under cool water to remove any dirt. At this point, you can decide whether to peel the potatoes or leave the skins on. Leaving the skins on gives the mash a more rustic feel, while peeling them results in a smoother texture.

2. Cut into Pieces

Slice the potatoes into 1-inch chunks. This size allows for even cooking and ensures they become tender without falling apart.

Boiling the Potatoes to Perfection

Now that your potatoes are prepped, it’s time to boil them. Here’s how to get it right every time:

1. Place the cut potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add ½ teaspoon of salt to the water for flavor.
2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and cook the potatoes for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a fork easily pierces through the pieces.
3. Drain the potatoes in a colander, ensuring all the water is removed. Excess water can make your mash runny.

Tips for Perfect Texture

Once the potatoes are boiled and drained, it’s time for the fun part—mashing! Here’s how to achieve the ideal texture:

• Use a potato masher: This gives you control over the texture, whether you want it smooth or slightly chunky.
• For a super smooth mash, consider using a potato ricer. It creates a fine, airy texture.
• After draining, return the potatoes to the hot pot for 2-3 minutes to allow any extra moisture to evaporate. This helps keep your mash light and fluffy.

Adding Butter and Milk for Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Now, for the creamy part! Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the potatoes, and begin mashing. Once the butter is incorporated, slowly add the ½ cup of warm whole milk.

• Start with half of the milk, mash, and then add the rest.
• If the mashed potatoes are too thick for your liking, you can add a bit more warm milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the desired creaminess is achieved.

Seasoning Tips for Mashed Potatoes

To finish, season the mashed potatoes with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Give them a taste test and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. For an extra layer of flavor, you can stir in additional butter if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Mashed Potatoes

Making mashed potatoes seems simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results:

• Overcooking the Potatoes: If the potatoes boil for too long, they’ll absorb too much water, leading to a watery mash. Keep an eye on the potatoes and drain them as soon as they’re tender.
• Not Warming the Milk: Adding cold milk to hot potatoes can cause the mash to cool down and become lumpy. Be sure to warm the milk before mixing it in.
• Over-mixing: Using a mixer or overworking the potatoes can lead to a gummy texture. Stick with a masher or ricer for the best results.

Mashed Potatoes Recipe Variations

Looking to jazz up your mashed potatoes? Here are some simple variations:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add roasted garlic or sautéed garlic while mashing for a rich, savory flavor.
• Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or rosemary for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
• Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Mix in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or cream cheese for an extra indulgent side dish.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

Mashed potatoes can be served in a simple bowl or arranged beautifully in a serving dish. For an extra touch, top them with:

• A pat of butter that melts right before serving.
• Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color and flavor.
• A drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

These simple additions can elevate the presentation and make your dish look as good as it tastes.

Storing Leftover Mashed Potatoes

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—mashed potatoes store well! Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or butter to restore their creamy texture. You can also freeze mashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to two months.

FAQ About Mashed Potatoes

1. Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can make mashed potatoes a day ahead. Store them in the fridge, and reheat with a little extra milk or butter before serving.

2. How can I prevent mashed potatoes from becoming gummy?

Avoid over-mixing the potatoes. Stick to a potato masher or ricer, and refrain from using a hand mixer.

3. What’s the best way to reheat mashed potatoes?

Reheat mashed potatoes over low heat on the stovetop, adding a little milk or butter to bring back the creamy texture.

Conclusion

There you have it—the best mashed potatoes recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With these easy-to-follow steps and helpful tips, you’ll make mashed potatoes that are creamy, fluffy, and full of flavor every time. Don’t forget to try out the recipe variations to add your own twist!

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