Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our best mashed potatoes recipe. Creamy, buttery, and rich in flavor, this dish is a staple at family gatherings and holiday feasts. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, these mashed potatoes will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
– 2 pounds of russet potatoes
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup of whole milk
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic, cream, or herbs for flavor
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/2 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 220
– Protein: 3g
– Carbohydrates: 32g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into equal-sized chunks.
2. Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water.
3. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
4. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
5. Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
6. Drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot.
7. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt into the potatoes.
8. Pour in the whole milk and begin mashing the potatoes with a potato masher.
9. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
10. Continue mashing until the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute russet potatoes with Yukon Gold for a creamier texture. For a dairy-free option, use almond milk and vegan butter. Garlic powder or roasted garlic can enhance the flavor without additional effort.
Serving and Pairings
These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, beef stew, or grilled vegetables. They can also be served with gravy or as a base for shepherd’s pie.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. You can freeze them for up to 2 months, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold water for boiling potatoes can lead to uneven cooking.
- Over-mixing can result in gluey mashed potatoes.
- Not salting the water can lead to bland potatoes.
- Skipping the butter can make the dish less rich.
- Not draining the potatoes well can lead to watery mashed potatoes.
Helpful Tips
- Use a potato ricer for an ultra-smooth texture.
- Warm the milk before adding it to the potatoes.
- Experiment with different herbs for added flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare mashed potatoes a day in advance and reheat them before serving. Add a little milk to maintain creaminess.
What type of potatoes are best for mashing?
Russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their high starch content, resulting in a fluffy texture.
Can I add cheese to my mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Adding shredded cheese like cheddar or cream cheese can enhance the flavor and creaminess of your mashed potatoes.
How can I make my mashed potatoes healthier?
You can reduce the butter and milk or substitute with Greek yogurt. Adding cauliflower can also lighten the dish while maintaining creaminess.
What can I do with leftover mashed potatoes?
Leftover mashed potatoes can be used in various dishes like potato pancakes, shepherd’s pie, or even added to soups for extra thickness.
Conclusion
With this best mashed potatoes recipe, you can create a delicious and comforting side dish that will impress your family and friends. Perfectly creamy and full of flavor, these mashed potatoes are sure to become a favorite at any meal. Enjoy the simplicity and satisfaction of this classic dish!
Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds russet potatoes
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into equal-sized chunks.
- Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water.
- Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add the unsalted butter and let it melt into the potatoes.
- Pour in the whole milk and mash the potatoes.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Continue mashing until the potatoes are smooth and creamy.