Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish loved by many for their creamy, comforting texture and mild flavor. Made from boiled potatoes mashed with butter, milk, and seasonings, this dish pairs well with almost any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday dinner or a casual weeknight, mashed potatoes are sure to please everyone at the table. They are simple to make, customizable, and are the perfect accompaniment to meat dishes, gravies, and vegetables.
Quick Facts
| Course | Side Dish |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | American |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Servings | 4-6 servings |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15 minutes |
| Calories | ~200 per serving |
Equipment Needed
Before you start cooking, make sure you have these essential tools:
- Large Pot – To boil the potatoes.
- Potato Masher or Electric Mixer – For mashing the potatoes.
- Strainer or Colander – To drain the boiled potatoes.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – To measure out your ingredients.
- Knife and Cutting Board – For chopping potatoes into uniform pieces.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon – To stir the mashed potatoes.
- Saucepan – For heating the milk and butter.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal)
- 1/2 cup butter (unsalted)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk or cream for richer flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 garlic clove (optional, for added flavor)
- Fresh herbs (optional, like parsley or chives for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into even chunks. This ensures they cook evenly.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or an electric mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth.
- Add Butter and Milk: Heat the milk and butter together in a saucepan over low heat until the butter is melted. Pour this mixture over the mashed potatoes and continue mashing until creamy.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. If you like, you can also add roasted garlic or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Serve: Serve hot with your favorite dish. You can garnish with chives, parsley, or a little extra butter for a touch of luxury.
Essential Note
- Texture: For smoother mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer or food mill. This will remove any lumps and give you an ultra-silky texture.
- Flavor Boosters: You can add cream cheese, sour cream, or even cheese to give your mashed potatoes a different flavor profile. For a richer taste, try using heavy cream instead of milk.
- Make Ahead: Mashed potatoes can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little extra milk to restore the creaminess.
