Name: Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3 lbs russet potatoes (peeled and rinsed clean, cut into 1 1/4-inch chunks); to taste Salt (and optionally freshly ground black pepper); 1/2 cup half and half (whipping cream or heavy cream); 6 Tbsp unsalted butter (diced into 1 Tbsp pieces); 1/2 cup sour cream (preferably brought to room temperature while potatoes cook)

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There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of Mashed Potatoes. Growing up, my family would gather around the kitchen table, and the aroma of buttery potatoes would fill the air. I fondly remember those chilly evenings in winter when my mom would whip up this classic dish, making everything feel just a little warmer and cozier. The fluffy texture of the mashed potatoes, complemented by creamy richness, always brought smiles to our faces. Every forkful transported us back to family dinners, laughter, and stories shared around the table. Now, I love keeping that tradition alive by making Mashed Potatoes for my own family and friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, this dish is the perfect sidekick for any meal.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
6 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Cutting Board, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Peeler

The Charm of This Mashed Potatoes

Comfort in Every Bite

The rich, creamy texture of Mashed Potatoes makes it a comfort food classic. There’s just something about the way it melts in your mouth that makes you feel at home.

Versatile Pairing

These mashed potatoes pair perfectly with a variety of dishes, from roasted meats to hearty vegetables. They can elevate any meal!

Simple Yet Satisfying

You don’t need to be a culinary expert to master Mashed Potatoes. This recipe is straightforward and yields satisfying results.

Customizable to Your Taste

Whether you prefer them creamy, fluffy, or with a hint of garlic, this recipe is fully adaptable to suit your palate. Add herbs or spices to make it uniquely yours!

Perfect for Any Occasion

From cozy family dinners to festive holiday gatherings, Mashed Potatoes are always a hit. They’re the dish that brings everyone together.

Great for Leftovers

Leftover mashed potatoes can be transformed into delicious dishes like potato pancakes or shepherd’s pie, making them even more worthwhile.

What You’ll Need for Mashed Potatoes

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for making the perfect Mashed Potatoes. Each element plays a vital role in contributing to the overall flavor and texture. You’ll find that using quality ingredients enhances the dish significantly. Let’s look at what you’ll need:

3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and rinsed clean, cut into 1 1/4-inch chunks: These starchy potatoes provide the perfect base for fluffy mashed potatoes.
Salt and optionally freshly ground black pepper: Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors.
1/2 cup half and half, whipping cream or heavy cream: This adds the creaminess that makes the dish irresistible.
6 Tbsp unsalted butter, diced into 1 Tbsp pieces: Butter adds richness and depth of flavor.
1/2 cup sour cream, preferably brought to room temperature while potatoes cook: This contributes a delightful tang and creaminess.

Step by Step Instructions for Mashed Potatoes

Making Mashed Potatoes is a simple yet rewarding process. I love the feeling of creating something so delightful with just a few steps. Here’s how to do it:

Start by placing the potatoes in a colander and rinsing them under cold water for about 20 seconds. This removes any excess starch, which helps achieve a smoother texture.
Transfer the rinsed potatoes to a large pot (at least 6 quarts). Cover them with cold water, ensuring the water level is about 1 inch above the potatoes. This helps cook them evenly.
Set the pot over medium-high heat and bring the water to a boil. As the water heats, season it generously with salt (I typically add around 1 tablespoon). This step is crucial for flavor.
Once boiling, let the potatoes cook until they are tender, which usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when you can easily pierce them with a fork.
About five minutes before the potatoes are done, heat the half and half and butter together in a microwave-safe dish or a small saucepan on the stovetop until they’re very warm. This will help incorporate them smoothly into the potatoes.
Once cooked, drain the potatoes well in the colander, making sure to remove any excess moisture.
Now it’s time for the fun part! Pass the drained potatoes through a food mill or potato ricer back into the pot or a large bowl. This step ensures you achieve the fluffiest consistency.
Add the warm half and half mixture and sour cream to the potatoes. Gently stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the potatoes may become gummy.
Lastly, season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm, and if you like, top with extra butter or gravy for an even more indulgent experience.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Time: Ensure the potatoes are cut evenly to promote consistent cooking.
Texture: For super fluffy Mashed Potatoes, avoid overmixing after adding the liquids.
Temperature: Warm ingredients integrate better, thus use warm half and half and butter.
Variations: Feel free to add garlic or herbs during cooking for extra flavor.

Make It Your Own

While the classic Mashed Potatoes recipe is amazing on its own, there are plenty of ways to personalize it. Here are some fun tips to experiment with:

Extra Creaminess: If you prefer richer Mashed Potatoes, consider using heavy cream instead of half and half.
Garlic Lovers: Add roasted garlic or garlic powder for an aromatic twist.
Cheesy Delight: Incorporate grated cheese such as cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesy variation.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can brighten the flavor profile.
Texture Variance: Play with the mashing method; try a hand masher for a chunkier texture.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: Mashed potatoes can also be frozen, but be aware they may lose some creaminess.

Serving Ideas for Mashed Potatoes

When it comes to serving Mashed Potatoes, the options are endless. Here are some delightful ideas:

With Roast Chicken: Pair with a succulent roast chicken for a comforting dinner.
Holiday Feasts: A must-have side for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, complementing turkey and gravy.
Casual Weeknights: Serve alongside grilled vegetables or fish for an easy weeknight meal.
Potato Bowls: Create a potato bowl topped with sautéed greens, roasted vegetables, or your favorite protein.
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days; reheat gently.
Seasonal Pairings: In winter, serve alongside hearty stews; in spring, pair with fresh salads.

FAQ

When it comes to Mashed Potatoes, the best choice is russet potatoes due to their high starch content, which results in a fluffy and creamy texture. Yukon golds are also a great option if you prefer a slightly buttery flavor. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they tend to become gummy when mashed. For the best results, stick with russets or Yukon golds for that perfect creamy consistency.

Yes, you can make Mashed Potatoes in advance! One option is to prepare them a day ahead, then store them in the refrigerator. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, and add a splash of cream or milk to restore moisture. Alternatively, you can keep them warm in a double boiler for about 30 minutes before serving. Just remember, they can dry out, so it’s always good to have some extra cream on hand during reheating!

To prevent gluey Mashed Potatoes, it’s crucial not to overmix them after adding the cream and butter. Overworking the potatoes can release excess starch, leading to a gummy texture. Instead, blend the ingredients until just combined. Additionally, using a food mill or potato ricer instead of a traditional masher can help achieve a fluffier consistency, as these tools create less surface area disruption.

Mashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. They are perfect alongside roasted meats, such as chicken, beef, or turkey, and are a staple for holiday feasts. Serve them with rich gravies or sauces to elevate your meal. Mashed Potatoes also complement vegetarian options, like grilled vegetables or hearty salads, making them a fantastic addition to any dinner plate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mashed Potatoes hold a special place in the hearts of many as the quintessential comfort food. Their creamy, fluffy texture combined with buttery richness makes them irresistible. I encourage you to try making this dish for yourself or sharing it with loved ones. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings people together around the table. Enjoy every bite!

Mashed Potatoes

The ultimate comfort food, Mashed Potatoes are creamy, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe will satisfy your cravings and is sure to become a family favorite. Make them tonight for a delightful side dish!

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

Total Time 50

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

3 lbs russet potatoes peeled and rinsed clean, cut into 1 1/4-inch chunks
to taste Salt and optionally freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup half and half whipping cream or heavy cream
6 Tbsp unsalted butter diced into 1 Tbsp pieces
1/2 cup sour cream preferably brought to room temperature while potatoes cook

Equipment

Large Pot
Cutting Board
Frying pan
Wooden Spoon
Mixing Bowl
Peeler

Method

Start by placing the potatoes in a colander and rinsing them under cold water for about 20 seconds. This removes any excess starch, which helps achieve a smoother texture.
Transfer the rinsed potatoes to a large pot (at least 6 quarts). Cover them with cold water, ensuring the water level is about 1 inch above the potatoes. This helps cook them evenly.
Set the pot over medium-high heat and bring the water to a boil. As the water heats, season it generously with salt (I typically add around 1 tablespoon). This step is crucial for flavor.
Once boiling, let the potatoes cook until they are tender, which usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when you can easily pierce them with a fork.
About five minutes before the potatoes are done, heat the half and half and butter together in a microwave-safe dish or a small saucepan on the stovetop until they’re very warm. This will help incorporate them smoothly into the potatoes.
Once cooked, drain the potatoes well in the colander, making sure to remove any excess moisture.
Now it’s time for the fun part! Pass the drained potatoes through a food mill or potato ricer back into the pot or a large bowl. This step ensures you achieve the fluffiest consistency.
Add the warm half and half mixture and sour cream to the potatoes. Gently stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the potatoes may become gummy.
Lastly, season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm, and if you like, top with extra butter or gravy for an even more indulgent experience.

Notes

Half and half: makes lighter, slightly fluffier potatoes; whipping cream and heavy cream make richer, creamier yet slightly denser potatoes. If you like thinner mashed potatoes you may want to add an additional 1/4 cup.
Texture: If you don't have a potato ricer or food mill you can just mash well with a potato masher; texture just will be a little lumpy.
Nutrition: estimate does not include butter topping or gravy and is calculated using half and half.
Double boiler: Place mashed potatoes in a double boiler - a large bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Cover bowl. Fold occasionally as outsides will get warmer. I don't recommend keeping potatoes here much longer than 30 minutes.
Slow cooker: Another option is to use a greased slow cooker set to warm heat. Hold here up to 2 hours.