Mashed potatoes are creamy, fluffy, and oh-so-comforting! Made with simple ingredients like buttery potatoes, milk, and a bit of salt, they’re the perfect side dish!
I love serving them with gravy or even just a sprinkle of pepper. They’re so easy to whip up, and let’s be real, who doesn’t enjoy a big scoop of mashed potatoes? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect here. They mash beautifully and have a great flavor. If you’re in a pinch, red potatoes can be used, but they won’t be as fluffy.
Milk: Whole milk gives the best results for creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, almond milk or oat milk can work as substitutes, though the flavor will change slightly.
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for controlling salt levels. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan butter or olive oil for a different spin.
Garlic: Adding garlic is optional but so delicious! If you want a milder flavor, try roasted garlic instead. If you’re not a fan of garlic, just skip it.
Herbs: Fresh chives or rosemary add a lovely touch. If you don’t have these, parsley is a nice alternative. Dried herbs can also work; just remember they’re more concentrated!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
The secret to creamy mashed potatoes lies in how you prepare them! First, cooking the potatoes until they are very tender is key. Also, mashing the potatoes while they are still warm helps to keep them fluffy.
- Start by covering cut potatoes with cold water to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t rush the cooking process; simmer gently until fork-tender.
- Use a potato masher or ricer for the best texture—avoid using a blender or food processor, as they can make the potatoes gummy.
- Warm the milk beforehand to keep the mixture smooth and creamy when combined.
Lastly, taste and adjust the seasoning for the best flavor. You want them to be rich but not overwhelming. Enjoy your perfectly creamy mashed potatoes!
How to Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warmed)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for serving
- 2-3 cloves garlic, peeled (optional for garlic flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives or rosemary, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, with 15-20 minutes for boiling the potatoes. The remaining time is for mashing and serving. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by placing the peeled and chunked potatoes into a large pot. Cover the potatoes with cold water. If you want to add garlic for extra flavor, toss the peeled cloves in with the potatoes. This will infuse the water with garlic goodness!
2. Cook the Potatoes:
Bring the pot of water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the potatoes to simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until they are very tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. You want them soft enough to mash easily!
3. Drain and Mash:
Drain the potatoes (and garlic if you used it) well and return them to the pot or transfer them to a large bowl. Now it’s time to mash them! Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and free of lumps. The texture should be creamy and fluffy!
4. Add Milk and Butter:
Warm the milk gently in the microwave or on the stove. Just a few seconds will do! Slowly add the warm milk to the mashed potatoes while stirring until you achieve your desired creaminess. Toss in the butter and mix until it’s completely melted and blended through the potatoes.
5. Season and Serve:
Season the mashed potatoes with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed. Then, transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. For an extra treat, top with a pat of butter and drizzle a little melted butter over the surface for added richness.
6. Garnish:
If you like, sprinkle chopped fresh chives or rosemary on top for a lovely finishing touch. These herbs not only add color but also a fresh flavor.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your warm mashed potatoes alongside your favorite main dish. They are perfect for soaking up gravy or making your meal extra comforting. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet and Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for creamy mashed potatoes due to their starch content, you can also use red potatoes. Just keep in mind they may result in a less fluffy texture.
Can I Make Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare mashed potatoes ahead of time! Simply make the potatoes, then let them cool before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
The best way to reheat leftovers is on the stovetop over low heat. Stir in a little milk or cream to keep them creamy as you heat. Microwave is also an option—just do it in short bursts and stir in between to prevent hot spots!
How Can I Adjust the Flavor of the Mashed Potatoes?
If you want to enhance the flavor, try adding sour cream, cream cheese, or even some grated cheese for richness. You can also experiment with seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs for a unique twist!
