Best Mashed Potatoes

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If there’s one side dish I never skip on a holiday table—or frankly, any hearty dinner—it’s mashed potatoes. There’s just something about that creamy, buttery, fluffy spoonful of comfort that ties a meal together. I’ve spent years tweaking my method, aiming for that ideal texture and rich, savory flavor. And this version? It’s the one that gets asked for every single time.

I love that these mashed potatoes are simple to make yet taste like something special. A little attention to the technique and quality ingredients go a long way. Whether you’re pairing them with roasted chicken, turkey, or just need the ultimate comfort food fix, these mashed potatoes hit the mark.

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Why You’ll Love This Mashed Potatoes Recipe

They’re silky smooth, wonderfully buttery, and just the right amount of fluffy. This recipe balances richness with comfort, and it’s a fantastic make-ahead option for dinner parties or weeknight meals. Plus, they’re customizable and always a crowd favorite.

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What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

For the best texture, I always go with Yukon Gold potatoes. They have a naturally creamy texture and a slightly buttery flavor, which means you need less actual butter to get that indulgent taste. Russets also work if you prefer a fluffier, lighter mash, but avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes—they tend to get gummy.

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Options for Substitutions

• Milk vs. Cream: You can use half-and-half, heavy cream, or whole milk depending on how rich you want your mashed potatoes.
• Butter Alternatives: Vegan butter or olive oil can be used if you’re dairy-free.
• Garlic Boost: Add roasted garlic or garlic powder if you want a deeper flavor.
• Herbs: Chives, rosemary, thyme, or parsley all add a nice touch. Fresh is best, but dried herbs work too in a pinch.
• Cream Cheese or Sour Cream: For extra tang and creaminess, fold in a spoonful or two.

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Ingredients for This Mashed Potatoes Recipe

• Yukon Gold Potatoes – Their naturally buttery and creamy texture makes them ideal for a smooth mash.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds rich flavor and luscious texture. I prefer unsalted so I can control the salt levels.
• Whole Milk or Heavy Cream – Used to loosen the mash and add creaminess. The higher the fat, the richer the result.
• Salt – Crucial for seasoning the potatoes from within.
• Black Pepper – Adds a touch of warmth and contrast to the richness.
• Fresh Chives – Optional, but they add a pop of color and a light onion flavor.

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Step 1: Peel and Cut the Potatoes

Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and cut them into even chunks (about 2-inch pieces). This helps them cook evenly and avoids overcooking some while others remain underdone.

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Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water by about an inch. Add a generous amount of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender.

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Step 3: Drain and Dry

Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the hot pot. Let them sit for a couple of minutes to allow steam to escape. This step is key to avoiding watery mashed potatoes.

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Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

Use a potato masher or ricer to mash the potatoes to your preferred consistency. For the smoothest texture, a ricer works best. Avoid over-mashing to keep the texture light and fluffy.

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Step 5: Add Butter and Cream

While the potatoes are still hot, add the butter and let it melt. Stir in the warmed milk or cream gradually until the mash reaches your desired consistency.

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Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust with more salt and pepper as needed. Top with extra butter and a sprinkle of chives before serving if desired.

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How Long to Prepare the Best Mashed Potatoes

Prep Time: The preparation for these mashed potatoes typically takes about 10–15 minutes. This includes peeling and cutting the potatoes, and gathering the ingredients.

Cooking Time: Boiling the potatoes to fork-tender softness will take around 15–20 minutes. After draining, the mashing and mixing process takes another 5–10 minutes depending on the consistency you prefer.

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Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes

• Start in Cold Water: Always start boiling the potatoes in cold, salted water to ensure even cooking.
• Dry Thoroughly: Letting the potatoes dry in the hot pot after draining helps remove excess moisture and makes them creamier.
• Warm Your Cream and Butter: Mixing in cold ingredients can cool the potatoes and make them gluey.
• Use a Ricer or Food Mill: For an ultra-smooth texture, avoid electric mixers which can make potatoes gummy.
• Season Gradually: Always taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking Potatoes: They can become waterlogged and mushy.
• Skipping the Drying Step: Too much moisture will ruin the texture.
• Using the Wrong Potato Type: Waxy potatoes can lead to a sticky mash.
• Overmixing: This releases too much starch and gives a gluey texture.
• Adding Cold Dairy: Cold butter or milk cools the potatoes too quickly and affects creaminess.

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What to Serve With Best Mashed Potatoes?

1. Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken

Juicy, savory chicken pairs perfectly with the smooth, buttery texture.

2. Garlic Butter Steak

The richness of the mashed potatoes complements the bold, seared flavor of steak.

3. Classic Meatloaf

A timeless comfort combo—each bite melts together deliciously.

4. Gravy-Smothered Turkey

Especially around the holidays, nothing beats turkey with creamy mash.

5. Sautéed Mushrooms and Caramelized Onions

A great vegetarian topping that adds depth and umami.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let them cool completely before sealing.

Reheating: Warm them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or butter to revive creaminess. They can also be microwaved in short bursts with stirring.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze mashed potatoes in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

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Estimated Nutrition

• Calories: ~250 per serving
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Sugar: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep mashed potatoes warm before serving?

You can keep them warm in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting or place the pot over a double boiler.

Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! Make them a day in advance and reheat gently with a bit of extra milk or butter to refresh the texture.

How can I make them more flavorful?

Add roasted garlic, parmesan, sour cream, or even a splash of truffle oil.

Are mashed potatoes gluten-free?

Yes, naturally, as long as the ingredients used (like broth or butter substitutes) are gluten-free.

Can I use a hand mixer?

Yes, but be careful not to overmix or the potatoes can turn gummy. Stick to low speed.

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Conclusion

These best mashed potatoes are everything you want in a classic side—rich, creamy, fluffy, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or indulging in a cozy night in, they bring warmth and comfort to any plate. Keep this recipe in your back pocket, because once you make it, it’ll quickly become your go-to version.

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