Classic Mashed Potatoes are a timeless side dish that’s creamy, buttery, and always a crowd-pleaser. Perfectly smooth and rich, these mashed potatoes are made from simple ingredients, yet they offer the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether served alongside a holiday roast, a weeknight dinner, or as part of a celebratory meal, they’re sure to satisfy every palate. With a little butter, cream, and seasoning, these mashed potatoes become the ideal accompaniment to any main course. You can customize them to suit your taste with extras like roasted garlic, cheese, or herbs, but they’re delicious just as they are.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for serving
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or more for desired consistency)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the peeled and chopped potatoes into a large pot. Fill the pot with enough cold water to cover the potatoes by about an inch. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain and Dry the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well in a colander. For extra fluffy potatoes, return the drained potatoes to the pot and let them sit for a minute or two to allow any excess moisture to evaporate.
- Mash the Potatoes: Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. For an ultra-smooth texture, you can use a potato ricer or food mill instead of a masher.
- Add Butter, Milk, and Cream: Gradually add the butter, milk, and cream (if using) to the mashed potatoes, mixing until everything is incorporated and the potatoes are creamy. Add more milk if you prefer a looser consistency.
- Season: Taste the mashed potatoes and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
- Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and top with a pat of butter. Garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley, if desired.
Classic Mashed Potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal and can be customized to your liking with different add-ins. Whether you prefer them plain or with extra flavorings, they’re always a comforting, indulgent choice.
