Mashed potatoes are one of my favorite comfort foods – they’re simple, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. This mashed potatoes recipe is a classic, featuring just a few key ingredients: potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
To make it, you’ll cook the potatoes until they’re tender, then mash them with warm milk and butter, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
The whole process takes about 35 minutes, making it a quick and easy side dish. I recently enjoyed these mashed potatoes alongside a perfectly grilled skirt steak, and it was a delicious combination.
If you haven’t tried making mashed potatoes before, give this recipe a go – it’s a great way to elevate any meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips For Perfect Mashed Potatoes
- Choose High-Starch Potatoes: Opt for russets or Idaho potatoes, which have a higher starch content. They give the fluffiest and most creamy mashed potatoes.
Indian varieties with good starch levels work well too. Steer clear of waxy potatoes like new potatoes or fingerlings, as they can turn your mash gluey. - Cook to Perfection: Boil your potatoes until they’re just fork-tender. Overcooking will make them water-logged and grainy, resulting in a watery taste. Aim for tender but firm potatoes to keep your mash smooth and rich.
- Mash by Hand: Skip the stand mixer and use a potato masher instead. Overmixing with a mixer can break down starches too much, leading to a sticky texture.
Hand-mashing ensures a light and fluffy result without overworking the potatoes. - Adjust Texture with Potato Types: For a light, airy mash, stick with high-starch potatoes. If you prefer a creamier, denser texture, medium-starch potatoes like Yukon Gold are your go-to. Feel free to mix varieties to find your perfect balance.
- Drain Thoroughly: Make sure to drain your potatoes well after boiling. Excess starchy water can dilute the flavor and texture of your mash. A good drain ensures a rich and creamy consistency.
What To Serve With Mashed Potatoes?
Mashed Potatoes Recipe
These are the greatest homemade mashed potatoes I’ve ever tried! They are smooth, creamy, and full of flavor.
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Calories: 209kcal
Servings: 10
Equipment
- Pot
- Potato masher
- Colander
- Peeler
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 3 cloves garlic optional
- ⅓ cup salted butter melted
- 4 pounds potatoes russet or Yukon gold
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- 1 cup milk or cream
Instructions
- Peel and quarter the potatoes.
- Place them in a pot with cold salted water.
- Add garlic if using and bring to a boil.
- Cook uncovered for 15 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain well.
- Heat milk on the stove or in the microwave.
- Add melted butter to the potatoes and mash.
- Gradually mix in the warm milk until smooth, then season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Nutrition
Calories: 209kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 17mg | Sodium: 74mg | Potassium: 798mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 238IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 57mg | Iron: 2mg