Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just as a hearty side dish, nothing beats the creamy, buttery texture of perfectly mashed potatoes. This recipe combines the best of both worlds: the richness of Yukon Gold potatoes and the fluffiness of Russet potatoes, giving you the most luxurious mashed potatoes every time. With easy-to-follow steps and a few simple ingredients, you can master the art of homemade mashed potatoes in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Mashed Potatoes Recipe

This mashed potatoes recipe is perfect for any occasion. The blend of Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes gives it a balance of creaminess and structure, while garlic, butter, and cream cheese create a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to resist. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Rich and Creamy: The addition of cream cheese makes the mashed potatoes extra creamy without feeling heavy.
• Garlic-Infused Flavor: Minced garlic added during boiling gives the potatoes a delicious flavor boost.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, anyone can make this recipe.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like chives, freshly cracked black pepper, or a drizzle of gravy for a personalized touch.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Mashed Potatoes

To achieve the best mashed potatoes, each ingredient plays an essential role in the final outcome. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Potatoes (5 pounds, half Yukon Gold, half Russet): Yukon Gold adds creaminess, while Russet potatoes provide fluffiness. The combination creates the perfect texture.
• Whole Milk (1 cup): Adds moisture and helps smooth out the potatoes without making them watery.
• Butter (6 tablespoons): A key ingredient for flavor and richness.
• Garlic (2 large cloves, minced): Infuses the potatoes with a mild garlic flavor.
• Cream Cheese (4 ounces, room temperature): This secret ingredient makes the mashed potatoes extra creamy.
• Fine Sea Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the richness.
• Optional Toppings: Freshly cracked black pepper, chopped fresh chives, or green onions for a burst of freshness and flavor.

this RECIPE

Types of Potatoes to Use

Using the right type of potatoes is crucial for achieving the best mashed potatoes. This recipe calls for a combination of Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes, and here’s why:

• Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes are known for their naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture. They hold their shape well, making them perfect for a rich, smooth mash.
• Russet Potatoes: These are starchier potatoes, which makes them ideal for light and fluffy mashed potatoes. When combined with Yukon Gold, they provide the perfect balance of creaminess and fluffiness.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mashed Potatoes

Let’s dive into the process of making these mashed potatoes, step by step:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by cutting your potatoes into uniform chunks, about 1 inch thick. You can peel them or leave the skins on, depending on your preference.
2. Boil the Potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a large stockpot filled with cold water. Ensure the water level is about an inch above the potatoes. Add the minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of sea salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high heat and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and a knife pierces through easily.
3. Prepare the Butter Mixture: While the potatoes are boiling, melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe container. Add the milk and 2 teaspoons of sea salt. Heat until the butter is melted, but don’t let the milk boil.
4. Drain and Pan-Dry the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, carefully drain the water and return the potatoes to the hot stockpot. Place the pot back on low heat and shake it gently for about a minute to evaporate any remaining moisture.
5. Mash the Potatoes: Use a potato masher, ricer, or food mill to mash the potatoes to your desired texture. For extra smooth potatoes, a ricer or food mill works best.
6. Mix in the Butter and Cream Cheese: Start by adding half of the melted butter mixture to the potatoes. Gently fold it in using a wooden spoon or spatula. Add the remaining butter mixture and the cream cheese, stirring until everything is well incorporated. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the potatoes gluey.
7. Adjust Consistency: If the mashed potatoes seem too thick, add more warm milk, a little at a time, until you reach your preferred consistency.
8. Season and Serve: Taste the potatoes and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed. Serve them warm, topped with freshly cracked black pepper, chopped chives, or green onions.

Expert Tips for Creamy, Fluffy Mashed Potatoes

• Don’t Overmix: Overworking the potatoes can release too much starch, making them gluey. Mix gently to maintain their light and fluffy texture.
• Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This ensures the cream cheese blends smoothly without lumps.
• Avoid Cold Butter and Milk: Using warm butter and milk helps the potatoes absorb the liquids better, making them creamier.
• Salt the Water Generously: Just like pasta, potatoes need to be boiled in salted water to season them from the inside out.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Cutting Potatoes Unevenly: Ensure all potato chunks are about the same size for even cooking.
• Not Draining Properly: Leaving too much water can result in watery mashed potatoes.
• Boiling Water Too Vigorously: This can break down the potatoes too much and result in a mushy texture.

Optional Toppings and Variations

• Classic Toppings: Freshly cracked black pepper, chives, or green onions.
• Herb-Infused Butter: Melt some butter with rosemary or thyme to drizzle over the potatoes.
• Cheesy Potatoes: Stir in shredded cheddar or parmesan for a cheesy twist.
• Garlic Lovers: Add roasted garlic for an even bolder garlic flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips for Mashed Potatoes

For an elegant presentation, serve the mashed potatoes in a large serving bowl, creating swirls on top with the back of a spoon. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or a pat of butter. Pair with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a hearty meat dish for a complete meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: To reheat, place the potatoes in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Freeze: You can also freeze mashed potatoes for up to 2 months. To thaw, place them in the fridge overnight and reheat with a bit of extra milk or butter.

FAQs About Mashed Potatoes

Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare mashed potatoes a day ahead. Simply refrigerate them and reheat gently, adding more milk or butter to restore creaminess.

Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can experiment with other potatoes like Red Bliss or baby potatoes, but the texture might be slightly different.

How can I make dairy-free mashed potatoes?
You can substitute the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like homemade mashed potatoes to elevate a meal. With this easy recipe, you can create rich, creamy, and flavorful mashed potatoes that are sure to impress. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, these mashed potatoes will always be a hit.

Don’t forget to share this recipe and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!

Print