There’s nothing quite like the comfort of creamy mashed potatoes, is there? The moment I take that first forkful, the warm buttery goodness wraps around me like a cozy blanket, instantly melting away the day’s stress. As the holidays approach, I’m reminded that a well-made batch of mashed potatoes can turn an ordinary dinner into a feast and can even steal the spotlight on the table.
After experimenting with countless recipes, I finally mastered my go-to version—The Best Mashed Potatoes Ever. With just five simple ingredients, this dish balances rich flavors and effortless preparation, making it a crowd-pleaser any night of the week. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a comforting side dish, these luscious potatoes will have everyone asking for seconds. So grab your favorite pot and let’s dive into the magic of mashed potatoes!
Why are The Best Mashed Potatoes Ever special?
Comforting feeling: A bowl of these creamy mashed potatoes is like a warm hug for your soul.
Simplicity at its finest: You only need five ingredients to create this classic dish—quick and minimal effort!
Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Perfect for dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts, they will have everyone coming back for more.
Versatile option: Serve as a side dish or top with gravy, sautéed veggies, or even cheese for added flair.
Homemade goodness: Skip the fast food and enjoy the satisfaction of making something delicious from scratch.
The Best Mashed Potatoes Ever Ingredients
Discover the secrets to crafting The Best Mashed Potatoes Ever with these essential ingredients!
For the Potatoes
- 5 pounds russet potatoes – The starchiness of russets yields a fluffy and creamy texture.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing the natural flavor of the potatoes during cooking.
For the Creaminess
- 1 cup butter – Adds rich, velvety mouthfeel that makes each bite incredibly satisfying.
- 1 1/2 cups milk – Adjusts the consistency to your preference, perfect for creating that creamy finish.
- Freshly ground black pepper – A simple touch that elevates the flavor profile with a hint of warmth.
How to Make The Best Mashed Potatoes Ever
- Prepare your potatoes: Start by peeling and cutting 5 pounds of russet potatoes into even chunks. This ensures they cook uniformly and become perfectly tender.
- Boil the potatoes: In a large Dutch oven, add the potato chunks along with 2 tablespoons of salt and cover them with cold water by about an inch. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, partially covering the pot. Cook for about 10 to 15 minutes until tender when pierced with a knife.
- Drain and dry: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them well. Return them to the pot and wipe it dry to eliminate excess moisture, which helps in achieving that fluffy texture.
- Mash the potatoes: Using a potato masher or a fork, mash the potatoes to your desired consistency, whether smooth or slightly chunky—it’s all about personal preference!
- Incorporate butter: Pour in 1 cup of melted butter into the mashed potatoes, and gently fold it in using a rubber spatula until just combined, giving that delicious buttery flavor throughout.
- Adjust with milk: Gradually stir in 1 1/2 cups of hot milk, mixing until creamy. If you prefer them even creamier, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, mixing to achieve your ideal consistency. Finally, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Optional: Top with chopped chives for a pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with The Best Mashed Potatoes Ever?
There’s nothing quite like pairing creamy mashed potatoes with complementary flavors to create a delightful meal experience.
- Savory Gravy: A rich, savory gravy poured over the potatoes enhances their flavor and creates a satisfying fusion of textures. The warm sauce soaks in, adding a comforting element to each bite.
- Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken: Juicy and tender chicken with a hint of garlic pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of the mashed potatoes. The flavors meld beautifully, making this a classic combination that family and friends will adore.
- Steamed Broccoli: The bright green color and gentle crunch of steamed broccoli provide a refreshing contrast. It balances the richness of the potatoes and chicken with a fresh, crisp bite.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and slightly caramelized, honey-glazed carrots bring a touch of sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the savory mashed potatoes. Their vibrant orange color also adds visual appeal to your meal.
- Beef Stroganoff: The creamy beef stroganoff is a comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, allowing you to soak up every delectable bite.
- Crispy Bacon Brussels Sprouts: The smoky crunch of Brussels sprouts sautéed with bacon brings a savory depth to the meal. Their crispy texture complements the creamy mash for an added layer of enjoyment.
- Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine elevates the dining experience, enhancing the flavors of both the mashed potatoes and the accompanying dishes.
- Homemade Apple Crisp: A warm, cinnamon-spiced apple crisp for dessert rounds out the meal perfectly, offering a sweet finale after the savory goodness. The contrast in flavors will have everyone smiling.
Mashed Potato Variations
Feel free to personalize your perfect mashed potatoes and make them uniquely yours!
- Garlic-Infused: Add roasted garlic cloves to the potatoes before mashing for a rich, savory flavor that elevates the dish.
- Herb-Seasoned: Stir in fresh chopped herbs like chives, rosemary, or parsley for a burst of freshness and vibrant color in each bite.
- Cream Cheese Twist: Blend in 8 ounces of cream cheese for an ultra-creamy, tangy texture that takes your mashed potatoes to the next level.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted for a deliciously cheesy side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their comfort food.
- Vegan Delight: Swap butter for olive oil and milk for almond milk to create a delicious vegan-friendly version without sacrificing creaminess.
- Bacon Bits: Fold in crispy bacon pieces for a delightful crunch and smoky flavor that adds extra depth to every spoonful.
- Cauliflower Blend: Mix in steamed cauliflower for a lighter take while maintaining the comforting flavors of traditional mashed potatoes. Combine for a unique twist on texture!
Make Ahead Options
These The Best Mashed Potatoes Ever are a lifesaver for meal prep! You can peel and chop the russet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the cut potatoes submerged in cold water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, you can prepare the mashed potatoes completely and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the potatoes gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain that creamy texture. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade mashed potatoes without the last-minute rush!
Storage Tips for The Best Mashed Potatoes Ever
Room Temperature: Allow mashed potatoes to cool at room temperature for no more than 2 hours before storing, to avoid bacterial growth.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk for creamy results.
Freezer: Mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.
Reheating: For best results, reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil. Stir in additional milk or butter for creaminess when warming!
Tips for the Best Mashed Potatoes
Use the Right Potatoes: Choose russet potatoes for their high starch content, yielding light and fluffy mashed potatoes. Avoid waxy varieties, as they can make the mash dense.
Don’t Overmix: When combining melted butter and milk, mix until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to gummy mashed potatoes, ruining their perfect texture.
Adjust Milk Temperature: Always use hot milk when adding to the potatoes. Cold milk can cool down your mash and make it harder to achieve the desired creamy consistency.
Taste as You Go: Be sure to taste and adjust seasoning as you mix in salt and pepper. The flavor should shine through in every bite of The Best Mashed Potatoes Ever.
Serve Immediately: Mashed potatoes are best served fresh. If you need to hold them, keep them warm in a slow cooker or on the stove over low heat, covered with a lid.
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Just drop your email here and I'll send it right away! Plus you'll get new recipes from me every week. Yes please!
The Best Mashed Potatoes Ever Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right potatoes for mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for russet potatoes due to their high starch content, which creates fluffy and creamy mashed potatoes. Avoid waxy varieties like red potatoes since they can result in a denser texture. Look for potatoes that are firm and free of dark spots or blemishes to ensure the best flavor!
What’s the best way to store leftover mashed potatoes?
Very! After allowing your mashed potatoes to cool at room temperature for no more than 2 hours, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk for restored creaminess.
Advertisement
Can I freeze mashed potatoes, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze them! To do this, place your cooled mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of space at the top since they will expand when frozen. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C). Add a little milk or butter during reheating for that freshly made taste!
What can I do if my mashed potatoes are too gummy?
Oh no! If your mashed potatoes turn out gummy, it’s likely from overmixing when incorporating the butter and milk. To salvage them, try adding a small amount of hot milk to loosen them up. You can also mix in a little sour cream or cream cheese to add creaminess without the risk of further gumming them up. Remember, gentle folding is key!
Are these mashed potatoes suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, indeed! The Best Mashed Potatoes Ever recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you stick with the recommended ingredients. Always double-check any added ingredients, especially prepared foods like broth or seasoning mixes, to ensure they don’t contain any gluten.
Can I let mashed potatoes sit before serving?
Certainly! Although mashed potatoes are best served immediately, if you need to hold them, keep them warm in a slow cooker on low heat. For added creaminess, stir in some extra milk or butter as needed before serving. Just be sure to cover them to retain heat and moisture!