Description
Creamy Mashed Potatoes are a classic side dish, loved for their rich flavor and smooth texture. This recipe transforms simple potatoes, butter, and milk into a comforting favorite. Quick to prepare, these mashed potatoes are perfect for elevating weeknight dinners or impressing guests. Their creamy texture pairs well with various dishes, from roasts to sautéed vegetables. Make perfect, creamy mashed potatoes in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large potatoes (starchy varieties like Russets for fluffiest texture)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup milk (whole milk for richest flavor, or low-fat for a lighter version)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop the large potatoes into even pieces.
- Place chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water.
- Bring water to a boil and cook potatoes until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain the tender potatoes in a colander.
- Return drained potatoes to the pot to keep warm and allow excess moisture to evaporate.
- Add unsalted butter and milk to the potatoes.
- Using a potato masher or fork, mash the mixture until it reaches your desired creaminess (smooth and fluffy is the goal).
- Sprinkle in salt and freshly cracked pepper, mixing well to incorporate.
- Adjust seasonings to ensure every spoonful is flavorful.
- Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of chives for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Store creamy mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
- For longer storage, freeze mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- To reheat, add a bit of milk or butter to revive the creamy texture.
- You can prepare mashed potatoes up to 3 days in advance; cool completely before refrigerating.
- Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for the fluffiest, creamiest texture.
- Avoid overboiling potatoes to prevent watery mash; cook until just tender.
- Warm the milk and butter before adding them to the potatoes for a creamier texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Experiment with add-ins like garlic, cheese, or herbs to customize your creamy mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dishes
- Method: Boiling, Mashing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg