The Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This mashed potatoes recipe is a game-changer for any meal, offering creamy, dreamy goodness in every bite.
- It’s super easy to make, even if you’re new to cooking, with simple steps anyone can follow.
- The result is perfectly smooth and fluffy mashed potatoes that pair well with almost any dish.
- You can customize it with your favorite add-ins, like garlic, cheese, or herbs, to make it your own.
Recipe
Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food, perfect as a side dish or the star of a meal. This recipe delivers creamy, fluffy potatoes that are rich in flavor and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (about 4 large) russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes well in a colander and return them to the pot.
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk, cream, and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm (do not boil).
- Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or use a ricer for a smoother texture.
- Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the potatoes, stirring until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, substitute half of the milk with buttermilk or add roasted garlic.
- Avoid over-mixing, as it can make the potatoes gluey.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Potato masher or ricer
- Small saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 4–6
Nutrition
One serving of mashed potatoes provides essential nutrients and energy. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 214 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 20 mg |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Total Carbs | 32 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 µg |
| Calcium | 50 mg |
| Iron | 0.5 mg |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing creamy mashed potatoes with roast chicken—it’s a classic combo that feels like home. For something fresh and flavorful, I’ll toss in some garlic butter veggies, adding a pop of color and texture to the plate. These sides make the meal feel complete and satisfying every single time.
Roast Chicken Pairing
When I’m serving roast chicken, I love to keep things simple yet satisfying, and that’s where mashed potatoes come in. They create a perfect flavor harmony with the juicy chicken, blending creamy richness with savory notes. I like to add a hint of garlic or herbs to the potatoes for extra depth. A crisp white wine pairing, like a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, elevates the meal, balancing the richness with bright acidity. It’s a combo that feels fancy but is totally doable on a weeknight. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become your go-to comfort feast.
Garlic Butter Veggies
Everyone knows garlic butter veggies are a crowd-pleaser, and I love how they can turn any meal into something special. When I’m serving mashed potatoes, I always pair them with roasted broccoli, green beans, or carrots tossed in garlic butter. It’s such a simple way to add a nutrient boost while giving that rich flavor enhancement we all crave. I melt butter in a pan, sauté minced garlic until it’s fragrant, then toss the veggies in. A sprinkle of salt and pepper finishes it perfectly. It’s quick, delicious, and makes even weeknight dinners feel a little fancy. Try it—you’ll see!
