Looking for the ultimate comfort food? Dive into a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes that are simple to make and incredibly satisfying. With just a few straightforward steps you’ll create velvety, dreamy spuds that the whole family will love.
Table of Contents
- This recipe is…
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Recipe Ingredients
- Recipe Variations and Modifications
- How to Make Mashed Potatoes
- Recipe Tips
- How to Serve
- How to Store and Reheat
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More Favorite Potato Side Dish Recipes
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe Recipe
This recipe is…
Mashed potatoes are comfort food at its best. Fluffy, creamy, and versatile, they’re a favorite on holiday plates but deserve a place on your weekly menu too. This easy recipe delivers that classic texture and flavor without fuss.
These mashed potatoes are a go-to way to add a satisfying starch to any meal. They’re simple, creamy, and reliably delicious—perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- They’re a crowd-pleaser – mashed potatoes are universally loved and work for casual dinners or big gatherings.
- They’re customizable – add chives, garlic, cheese, or bacon to tailor the dish to your taste.
Recipe Ingredients
You don’t need much to make this classic side. Below are the basic ingredients with notes on swaps and substitutions.
- Potatoes – Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are the best choices for fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes.
- Milk or Heavy Cream – heavy cream gives the creamiest, richest texture; milk works if you prefer a lighter result.
A complete ingredient list with exact amounts appears in the recipe card below.
Recipe Variations and Modifications
- Cheater Garlic Mashed Potatoes – add 1 teaspoon garlic powder for a simple garlic flavor.
- Loaded Mashed Potatoes – stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar, ½ cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon chopped chives, and top with crumbled bacon.
- Dairy-Free – use full-fat coconut milk and a vegan butter or olive oil substitute.
How to Make Mashed Potatoes
This recipe is straightforward and quick. Follow these steps for perfect mashed potatoes every time.
Step 1: Place the potatoes and salt in a large pot. Cover with cold water by about an inch, then bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Cook about 15 minutes, until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
Step 2: Drain the potatoes thoroughly to remove excess water—this prevents a watery mash.
Step 3: Return the drained potatoes to the pot and mash with a potato masher or use a hand mixer at low speed until smooth.
Step 4: Stir in the cream (or milk), butter, and cracked black pepper. Taste and add salt as needed.
Step 5: Serve warm and enjoy.
Recipe Tips
- Use Yukon Gold or russet potatoes – these varieties are starchy enough to yield a light, fluffy texture.
- Salt the boiling water – seasoning the water seasons the potatoes from the inside out.
- Don’t overcook – remove potatoes once fork-tender to avoid gummy or gluey mashed potatoes.
How to Serve
Serve mashed potatoes with your favorite protein and a vegetable side. They pair well with roasted or baked turkey, Salisbury steak, and roasted green beans.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or on the stovetop for 7–8 minutes, adding 2–3 tablespoons of water, milk, or cream to restore creaminess while heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yukon Golds are ideal because they balance waxy and starchy qualities, producing a creamy, fluffy mash. If Yukon Golds aren’t available, russets also work well—just be sure to drain thoroughly to avoid excess water in the mash.
Plan on about ⅓ to ½ pound of raw potatoes per serving. For example, 2 pounds will serve roughly 4–6 people, depending on portion size.
For medium Yukon Gold potatoes, expect about five potatoes per pound, though sizes vary.
Boil for about 15 minutes, then test with a fork. If the fork slides through easily, they’re done.
You can mash by hand with a potato masher for a classic texture or use a hand mixer briefly for a smoother result. Avoid overworking the potatoes to prevent a gluey texture.
More Favorite Potato Side Dish Recipes
Food
Oven Baked Potato
1 hr 20 mins
Potato Side Dishes
Loaded Twice Baked Potato Casserole
2 hrs
Paleo
German Potato Salad
45 mins
Food
Roasted Potatoes in Oven
55 mins
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon gold or russet potatoes peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt plus more to taste
- 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
Instructions
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1. Add the potatoes and salt to a large pot, cover with water by about an inch, and place over medium-high heat.
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2. Bring to a low boil and cook about 15 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.
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3. Drain well, return potatoes to the pot, mash, then stir in cream, butter, and pepper. Adjust salt to taste and serve.
Recipe Notes
- For dairy-free: use full-fat coconut milk and vegan butter or olive oil.
- For Whole30: use full-fat coconut milk and ghee.
Nutrition
Additional Info
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