Description
This classic mashed potatoes recipe yields fluffy, creamy, and buttery mashed potatoes every time. Made with russet or Yukon gold potatoes, melted salted butter, warm milk or cream, and optional garlic for extra flavor, it’s the perfect side dish for any meal. Easy to prepare and versatile, these mashed potatoes are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 4 pounds potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
Flavorings
- 3 cloves garlic (optional)
- ⅓ cup melted salted butter
- 1 cup milk (or cream)
- salt (to taste)
- black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare and Boil Potatoes: Peel and quarter the potatoes, then place them in a pot filled with cold salted water. Add the cloves of garlic if using. Bring the water to a boil and cook uncovered for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and garlic thoroughly.
- Heat Milk: Warm the milk or cream on the stovetop or in the microwave until it is hot but not boiling. This will help achieve a smooth, creamy texture in the mashed potatoes.
- Mash Potatoes with Butter: Add the melted salted butter to the drained potatoes. Begin mashing the potatoes using a potato masher until they start to break down and become creamy.
- Add Warm Milk Gradually: Pour the warmed milk into the mashed potatoes a little at a time, continuing to mash and mix until you reach your desired creamy consistency.
- Season and Serve: Season the mashed potatoes generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well and serve the mashed potatoes hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Fluffy, creamy, and buttery, these mashed potatoes are absolutely perfect every time.
- Use russet potatoes for a fluffier texture or Yukon gold for a creamier, buttery flavor.
- Adding garlic while boiling infuses a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Warming the milk before adding helps incorporate it smoothly and keeps the potatoes hot.
- Adjust the milk quantity based on preferred consistency—less for thicker, more for creamier mashed potatoes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 0.5 cup
- Calories: 209 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 74 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 17 mg
