Description
Fluffy, buttery, and irresistibly creamy, these Best Mashed Potatoes are a classic comfort side dish that fits any occasion—from holiday feasts to cozy weeknights. Made with starchy potatoes, rich butter, and warm cream, they’re melt-in-your-mouth delicious with every bite.
Ingredients
2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk (warmed)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 cloves garlic (optional, boiled with potatoes)
Instructions
1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks.
2. Place the potatoes (and optional garlic) in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil.
3. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Drain the potatoes and let them sit uncovered for 5 minutes to release excess moisture.
5. Mash the potatoes using a masher or ricer to your preferred texture.
6. In a saucepan, warm the butter and cream together until melted.
7. Slowly add the butter-cream mixture into the potatoes, folding gently until smooth and fluffy.
8. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
9. Serve warm, topped with an extra pat of butter if desired.
Notes
Letting the potatoes steam after draining keeps them from becoming watery.
Warming the cream and butter prevents the mashed potatoes from cooling down.
For ultra-smooth potatoes, use a potato ricer instead of a masher.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boil + Mash
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg