How to Make Mashed Potatoes: Easy and Delicious Recipe
Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that's both creamy and flavorful. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to make perfect mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
2 pounds (about 4 large) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% for best results)
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese
Optional: 2 cloves garlic, minced (for garlic mashed potatoes)
Optional: Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Peel Potatoes: Peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler. If you prefer a more rustic texture, you can leave the skins on.
Cut Potatoes: Cut the potatoes into uniform chunks, about 1-2 inches in size. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Cook the Potatoes
Boil Water: Place the cut potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Adding cold water helps the potatoes cook evenly from the inside out.
Add Salt: Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
Bring to a Boil: Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Reduce to a simmer and cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Drain and Dry
Drain Potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them thoroughly in a colander.
Dry Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot and place it back on the stove over low heat for 1-2 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate. This helps make the mashed potatoes creamier.
4. Mash the Potatoes
Mash: Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes until smooth. For a creamier texture, you can use a potato ricer or food mill.
Add Butter: Cut the butter into pieces and add it to the hot potatoes. Stir until melted and fully incorporated.
5. Add Milk and Season
Milk: Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously, until the potatoes reach your desired consistency. You can adjust the amount of milk to make them creamier or thicker.
Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, add sour cream or cream cheese for extra richness and tang. For garlic mashed potatoes, stir in minced garlic.
6. Optional Add-ins
Flavor Enhancers: If desired, mix in additional ingredients such as roasted garlic, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
7. Serve
Transfer: Spoon the mashed potatoes into a serving dish.
Garnish: Garnish with additional butter, chopped herbs, or a sprinkle of pepper.
Tips
Potato Variety: Russet potatoes are starchy and produce fluffy mashed potatoes, while Yukon Golds are creamier and have a buttery flavor.
Milk Temperature: Warm the milk before adding it to the potatoes to keep everything hot and smooth.
Avoid Over-mashing: Over-mashing can make the potatoes gluey. Mash just until smooth.
Enjoy your creamy, homemade mashed potatoes as a comforting side dish!
