Homemade Mashed Potatoes Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food side dish, you’ve come to the right place. Homemade mashed potatoes are creamy, fluffy, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether for a holiday dinner, a family gathering, or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe is a must-have in your cooking repertoire. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create the most delicious mashed potatoes that everyone will love.

What Makes Yukon Gold Potatoes Ideal for Mashed Potatoes?

When making mashed potatoes, choosing the right type of potato is crucial. Yukon Gold potatoes are often considered the best because of their naturally buttery flavor and smooth, creamy texture. Unlike russet potatoes, which are starchier and can become dry, Yukon Golds offer a balance of starch and moisture that results in the perfect mash—creamy yet firm enough to hold shape.

Alternatives: If Yukon Golds aren’t available, you can use russet potatoes, but be aware that the texture will differ slightly. For a more rustic, chunkier mash, red potatoes can also work.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Homemade Mashed Potatoes

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients needed to make these creamy mashed potatoes:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes: Peeled and cut into 1 ½-inch cubes for even cooking.
• 1 ½ tablespoons kosher salt, divided: Enhances the flavor of the potatoes during boiling and mashing.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness; 4 tablespoons for mashing, and 2 tablespoons for topping.
• ½ cup sour cream: This adds a slight tang and creaminess.
• ½ cup whole milk, hot: Helps create a smooth texture without cooling down the potatoes.
• 2 teaspoons mustard (or horseradish): A flavor-enhancing twist that adds complexity without being overpowering.
• ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: For a mild kick of spice.
• Finely chopped parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, colorful touch for serving.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Boiling Potatoes

To get perfectly tender potatoes, you’ll need to boil them correctly:

1. Prepare the potatoes: Start by peeling your Yukon Gold potatoes and cutting them into uniform 1 ½-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking.
2. Boil the potatoes: Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt to the water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes are just fork-tender. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the potatoes mushy.
3. Drain and return to the pot: Once tender, drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot for mashing.

How to Achieve Creamy and Fluffy Mashed Potatoes

Now that your potatoes are boiled, it’s time to transform them into the creamy mashed goodness we all crave.

1. Add butter and dairy: While the potatoes are still hot, add 4 tablespoons of diced butter. Stir until the butter is completely melted and absorbed into the potatoes.
2. Incorporate sour cream and milk: Add the sour cream, hot milk, remaining ½ tablespoon of salt, and mustard. This mixture will create the signature creaminess.
3. Mash or mix: Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. If you prefer a silky-smooth texture, an electric mixer can be used. However, be cautious not to over-mix, as this can result in gummy potatoes due to the breakdown of starch.

The Importance of Butter and Dairy in Mashed Potatoes

Butter and dairy (sour cream and milk) are essential in mashed potatoes because they add richness and creaminess, balancing out the starchy nature of potatoes. Unsalted butter is preferable so you can control the seasoning. Whole milk and sour cream, with their fat content, help create a smoother texture. If you’re looking for lighter options, you can swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or substitute whole milk with half-and-half for an even richer taste.

Elevating Flavor: Mustard or Horseradish Twist

One of the standout features of this mashed potato recipe is the addition of mustard. While it may sound unusual, the mustard adds a subtle depth of flavor that enhances the dish without being overpowering. If you’re not a fan of mustard, you can substitute it with horseradish for a bit more bite or leave it out altogether for a more traditional flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Mashed Potatoes

Even with a simple dish like mashed potatoes, mistakes can happen. Here are a few to avoid:

• Overcooking the potatoes: This will make them waterlogged and mushy. Keep an eye on them as they cook, and test for tenderness with a fork.
• Overmixing: Using a hand mixer is fine, but mixing for too long can make the potatoes gluey.
• Undersalting: Potatoes absorb salt as they cook, so be sure to add it to the boiling water and season at every step.

Tips for Garnishing and Serving Your Mashed Potatoes

Presentation matters, especially when you’re serving a side dish as iconic as mashed potatoes. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Butter topping: For an extra indulgent touch, place the remaining two slices of butter on top of the hot mashed potatoes just before serving.
• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also use chives, dill, or rosemary.
• Creamy swirl: If you’re feeling fancy, use the back of a spoon to create a swirl pattern in the potatoes before adding the butter and herbs.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

If you want to freeze mashed potatoes, it’s possible, though the texture might change slightly. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Food Pairing Ideas for Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or turkey for a hearty meal. They also work well with vegetarian dishes like mushroom gravy or roasted vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mashed Potatoes

Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Simply prepare the mashed potatoes, store them in the fridge, and reheat with a splash of milk when you’re ready to serve.

What’s the best way to make mashed potatoes smooth?
For ultra-smooth mashed potatoes, use an electric hand mixer or a ricer. Just be careful not to overmix to avoid a gummy texture.

Can I use non-dairy alternatives for the milk and butter?
Yes, you can substitute the milk with almond, soy, or oat milk and use vegan butter to make this recipe dairy-free.

How do I avoid lumpy mashed potatoes?
Make sure to boil the potatoes until they’re just tender and mash them while they’re still hot for the best consistency.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade mashed potatoes to complete a meal. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because you crave that creamy, buttery goodness, this recipe is sure to satisfy. The combination of Yukon Gold potatoes, rich butter, tangy sour cream, and a surprising hint of mustard creates a dish that’s simple yet full of flavor. With these tips, you’ll avoid common mistakes and make the perfect mashed potatoes every time.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! If you loved this recipe, subscribe to our blog for more comforting and delicious dishes that you can easily make at home. Happy cooking!

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