Ah, mashed potatoes—the ultimate comfort food: creamy, fluffy, and perfect alongside just about any main dish. Here’s a classic, foolproof recipe.
🥔 Classic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients (serves 4–6)
- 2 lbs potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold are best)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic, sour cream, or cream cheese for extra flavor
Instructions
1. Prep the potatoes
- Peel (optional) and cut potatoes into 1–2 inch chunks for even cooking.
2. Boil
- Place potatoes in a pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer 15–20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Drain
- Drain potatoes well and return to the pot. Let sit 1–2 minutes to dry out slightly (makes fluffier mash).
4. Mash
- Use a potato masher or ricer.
- Add butter and mash until mostly smooth.
5. Add milk & season
- Warm milk slightly, then gradually stir into potatoes until creamy.
- Season generously with salt and pepper.
6. Optional extras
- Garlic mashed: Add roasted or sautéed garlic.
- Extra creamy: Mix in sour cream, cream cheese, or more butter.
- Herbs: Parsley, chives, or thyme for freshness.
🔥 Pro Tips
- Don’t overmix—overworked potatoes get gluey.
- Warm milk and butter keep mash fluffy and creamy.
- Yukon Gold potatoes are naturally buttery and creamy; Russets are fluffier.
✨ Serving ideas
- Classic side for roast chicken, turkey, or steak
- Mix with gravy or cheese for loaded mashed potatoes
- Top with crispy onions or bacon bits for extra indulgence
If you want, I can give a restaurant-style garlic herb mashed potato recipe that’s ultra-creamy, decadent, and rich enough to feel gourmet.
Do you want me to do that?
