A bowl of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes is always a comforting treat. Whether you’re making a Sunday roast, a cozy weeknight meal, or a holiday dinner, mashed potatoes bring warmth and satisfaction to any table. This recipe makes smooth, rich, and flavorful mashed potatoes just what every home cook wants to serve. With only a few ingredients, you’ll have a classic side dish that’s simple, reliable, and delicious.
Background
Mashed potatoes have been a comfort food for centuries. They started with humble beginnings in Europe and gained popularity in the 18th century as a versatile way to enjoy boiled potatoes. Over time, cooks added butter, milk, and cream to make them richer and smoother. Today, they’re one of the most beloved side dishes around the world, from Thanksgiving tables in the U.S. to family dinners everywhere.
The beauty of mashed potatoes is in their simplicity. With a few good ingredients and the right technique, plain potatoes become a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth dish.
These buttery mashed potatoes taste incredible with our Creamy Tuscan Chicken a rich, restaurant-style meal that’s perfect for cozy dinners.
Story behind the recipe
This recipe evokes fond memories of cozy family gatherings at my grandmother’s house. Every weekend, she made a big batch of mashed potatoes with just the right balance of butter and milk. It would be creamy but not heavy and seasoned just right. I’ve fine tuned this recipe to capture that same comforting flavor. These mashed potatoes are smooth, flavorful, and perfect every single time, just like Grandma’s.
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Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best):
- Yukon Gold potatoes have a buttery, creamy texture, which makes them great for smooth mashed potatoes. Russet potatoes are more starchy and fluffy.
- 2 tablespoons butter:
- Butter gives mashed potatoes their rich, smooth texture. For extra flavor, use salted butter, or choose unsalted if you want to control the seasoning yourself.
- ½ cup warm milk:
- Warm milk helps make the potatoes smoother and mixes in better. Cold milk can make the mixture lumpy. You can use cream for a richer taste or plant-based milk for a lighter option.
- 1 teaspoon salt:
- Salt enhances the flavors and balances the richness. Add it a little at a time and taste as you go.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper:
- A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper adds depth and a gentle spice that complements the creamy potatoes.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder:
- Garlic powder adds a mild, savory flavor that complements the buttery taste without overpowering it. You can also use roasted garlic for a stronger flavor.
- (Optional) Chopped chives or melted butter for garnish:
- Chives add color and a mild onion flavor, while melted butter gives a shiny finish that looks as good as it tastes.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Boil potatoes in salted water for about 15–20 minutes, until soft.
Drain the water completely and return the potatoes to the pot.
Mash potatoes. Add milk, butter and all the seasonings.
Top with melted butter and sprinkle parsley before serving.
Hint: For ultra-smooth mashed potatoes, warm your butter and milk before adding them. Cold ingredients can cause the potatoes to stiffen. Also, avoid over-mashing it can make them gluey.
Want a full comfort meal? Serve your mashed potatoes with Marry Me Chicken for a creamy, flavorful combo that’s always a hit.
Substitutions
- Butter substitute: Use olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Milk substitute: Unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or even vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for milk, offering a lighter flavor.
- Garlic powder substitute: Fresh minced garlic or roasted garlic adds a more intense flavor.
- Salt substitute: If you’re watching sodium intake, try a no-salt seasoning blend instead.
Variations
- Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Add ½ cup of shredded cheddar or parmesan while mashing.
- Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes: Add a fragrant twist by mixing in sautéed garlic, rosemary, or thyme.
- Creamy Sour Cream Mash: Stir in ¼ cup of sour cream for an extra tangy and creamy finish.
- Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Top with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, and green onions.
Serving Suggestion
Mashed potatoes pair perfectly with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or hearty stews. They also make a great base for dishes like Shepherd’s Pie or Chicken Schnitzel. For a vegetarian meal, serve them alongside sautéed vegetables or a lentil loaf.
Crispy meets creamy pair your mashed potatoes with Chicken Schnitzel for a family-favorite dinner idea.
Storage
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan with a splash of milk or butter and stir gently until warm. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between.
For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Top tip
Use a potato ricer or food mill instead of a masher if you want ultra-light and fluffy mashed potatoes. Also, never skip warming your milk it’s the key to creaminess!
These best mashed potatoes are creamy, buttery, and made with love. The kind of comfort food that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re serving them on a weeknight or at a special dinner, they’ll always be a crowd favorite. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and unbeatable flavor. That’s the secret to truly great mashed potatoes.
FAQs
Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove with a bit of milk or butter.
This happens when they’re over-mashed. Mash just until smooth and fluffy not too long.
Absolutely. Heavy cream or half-and-half will make your mashed potatoes even richer and silkier.
Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes work best for a fluffy, creamy texture.
Boil until tender, drain completely, then mash with warm milk and butter.
Drain well, mash while warm, and add liquids gradually.
Related
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with [this recipe]:
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