Description
This easy creamy mashed potatoes recipe delivers perfectly smooth and buttery potatoes in just 30 minutes. Made with simple ingredients like russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, butter, milk, salt, and pepper, it’s a comforting classic side dish ideal for any meal. Optional sour cream adds extra richness, and fresh herbs provide a bright garnish.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Dairy & Fats
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
Seasonings & Garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Potatoes: Place the peeled and cut potatoes in a large pot, covering them with water. Add a pinch of salt to season the water.
- Cook Potatoes: Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the warm pot to evaporate any remaining moisture.
- Mash Potatoes: Add the butter, milk (or heavy cream), salt, and black pepper to the pot. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash until the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
- Add Sour Cream: Stir in the sour cream if desired, and adjust the consistency by adding more milk or cream as needed for extra creaminess.
- Season to Taste: Taste the mashed potatoes and add more salt and pepper if necessary to suit your preference.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a bright finish and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra rich mashed potatoes, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Leaving the potatoes in the hot pot after draining helps to evaporate excess water for fluffier results.
- Use a hand mixer for ultra-smooth mashed potatoes or a masher for a chunkier texture.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to ensure perfect flavor balance.
- Chives or parsley add color and a fresh herbal note but can be omitted if unavailable.
