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Foolproof Creamy Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of fluffy mashed potatoes topped with melted butter and cracked black pepper.

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Achieve silky, lump-free mashed potatoes with rich, buttery flavor. This recipe ensures crowd-pleasing, creamy potatoes every time, perfect for holiday meals.

Ingredients

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  • 2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste

Instructions

  1. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
  2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Return the empty pot to the stove over low heat for about 1 minute to evaporate any remaining moisture.
  4. Return the drained potatoes to the dry pot. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or a ricer until mostly smooth.
  5. In a small saucepan, heat the milk or half-and-half over medium-low heat until warm, but not boiling.
  6. Add the warm milk to the mashed potatoes, along with the softened butter, salt, and pepper.
  7. Stir gently until the butter is melted and the potatoes are creamy and well combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make them gummy.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  9. Serve immediately or keep warm until serving.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, you can add roasted garlic or a tablespoon of cream cheese when you add the milk and butter.
  • To keep mashed potatoes warm, place them in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.
  • Russet potatoes will yield a fluffier mash, while Yukon Golds will produce a creamier, richer texture.
  • Consider using a potato ricer for the smoothest possible texture.

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