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Creamy Homemade Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Homemade Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Homemade Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food with a rich, smooth, and velvety texture. Made from starchy Yukon Gold potatoes combined with butter and warm cream or milk, this classic side dish delivers a perfectly fluffy and indulgent taste that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Easy to prepare and customizable to suit any dietary need or flavor preference, this recipe is perfect for holiday feasts or weeknight dinners alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, warmed
  • 3/4 cup Whole Milk or Heavy Cream, warmed
  • 1 teaspoon Salt, plus extra for boiling water
  • 1/2 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 2 cloves Garlic (optional, peeled and whole or minced)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks of about two inches each to ensure even cooking.
  2. Boil Until Tender: Place the potato chunks into a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water, bring to a boil, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  3. Drain and Steam Dry: Drain the potatoes thoroughly, return them to the hot pot over low heat, and stir gently for 1 to 2 minutes to evaporate any excess moisture and prevent watery mashed potatoes.
  4. Mash the Potatoes: Use a potato masher, ricer, or food mill to mash the potatoes until smooth, being careful not to overwork them to avoid a gluey texture. Aim for a light and airy consistency.
  5. Incorporate Butter and Cream: Warm the butter and milk or cream before gradually stirring them into the mashed potatoes. This helps achieve the desired velvety richness and smoothness.
  6. Season and Serve: Generously season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately while hot for the best comforting experience.

Notes

  • Choose starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet for the best texture.
  • Warm the milk or cream before adding to maintain fluffiness and absorption.
  • Avoid overmixing the potatoes to prevent a gluey texture.
  • Add butter before dairy for richer flavor and creamier consistency.
  • Salt both the cooking water and the mashed potatoes well to maximize flavor.
  • Optional garlic can be added for a gentle aromatic warmth.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, homemade mashed potatoes, comfort food, potato side dish