Introduction
Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, cherished for their creamy, buttery texture and ability to complement any meal. This mashed potatoes recipe delivers a velvety, flavorful side dish perfect for holiday feasts, family dinners, or cozy weeknight meals. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a versatile classic that can be tailored to suit any taste. Whether paired with gravy or enjoyed on their own, these mashed potatoes bring warmth and satisfaction to every table.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup whole milk, warmed
- ¼ cup heavy cream, warmed
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: 2 cloves of garlic, roasted and mashed
- Optional: 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Process
- Cook Potatoes: Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
- Mashed Potatoes: Return potatoes to the pot over low heat to evaporate excess moisture, about 1 minute. Mash with a potato masher or ricer until smooth.
- Add Butter: Stir in softened butter until fully melted and incorporated.
- Add Liquids: Gradually add warmed milk and cream, stirring gently to achieve a creamy consistency. Add optional roasted garlic if using.
- Season: Add salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting as needed.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with chives if desired, and serve hot.
Tips for Better Mashed Potatoes
- Use Yukon Gold for creamy texture; Russets work for fluffier results
- Warm milk and cream to prevent the potatoes from getting cold
- Mash by hand to avoid a gluey texture from overmixing
- Drain potatoes thoroughly to avoid wateriness
- Add butter before liquids for a richer flavor
- Taste and adjust seasoning incrementally
- Keep potatoes warm in a covered dish before serving
- Use a ricer for ultra-smooth results
Variations and Customization
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add 4 cloves roasted garlic or 1 tsp garlic powder
- Cheesy Potatoes: Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan
- Herb-Infused: Mix in 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme
- Low-Fat Option: Use skim milk and reduce butter
- Loaded Potatoes: Add bacon bits and sour cream
- Vegan Mashed Potatoes: Use plant-based butter and almond milk
- Spicy Kick: Mix in ½ tsp cayenne or horseradish
- Truffle Mashed Potatoes: Drizzle with 1 tsp truffle oil
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Freeze for 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating
- Serve with roast chicken, steak, or vegetarian mains
- Reheat in a microwave with a splash of milk or in a 350°F oven
- Use leftovers in shepherd’s pie or potato pancakes
- Keep warm in a slow cooker for gatherings
- Garnish with extra butter or herbs for appeal
- Pair with a robust red wine or sparkling water
Nutritional Information
The following nutritional information is approximate, based on 6 servings (about ¾ cup per serving):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin C: 25% of Daily Value
- Potassium: 15% of Daily Value
- Iron: 6% of Daily Value
Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and optional ingredients like garlic or chives. Use a nutritional calculator for precise measurements. Mashed potatoes are moderate in calories but higher in fat due to butter and cream; the low-fat or vegan variations can reduce fat content. Potatoes provide potassium and fiber, making this a comforting yet nutrient-rich side.
Conclusion
This mashed potatoes recipe delivers a creamy, comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from festive holidays to everyday dinners. Its rich flavor and adaptable nature make it a versatile companion to countless mains. Easy to prepare and universally loved, it’s a staple that brings warmth to every meal. With endless variations, this recipe ensures a satisfying, crowd-pleasing addition to your culinary repertoire.
Mashed Potatoes Recipe: Creamy Comfort Side
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup whole milk, warmed
- ¼ cup heavy cream, warmed
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, roasted and mashed
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
Instructions
- Boil potatoes until tender; drain
- Mash potatoes over low heat
- Stir in butter until melted
- Add warm milk, cream, and optional garlic
- Season with salt and pepper
- Garnish with chives; serve hot
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold for creaminess
- Warm milk to maintain texture
- Store in fridge for 4 days or freeze for 2 months
- Serve with chicken or steak