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Creamy Homemade Mashed Potatoes – The Perfect Side Dish

Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food, loved for their rich, creamy texture and buttery flavor. Whether served alongside a holiday roast or as a simple side for a weeknight dinner, this homemade mashed potato recipe delivers the perfect balance of smoothness and fluffiness.

Using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, butter, and warm milk, this recipe creates a silky, flavorful mash that pairs well with a variety of main dishes. With just a few simple steps, you can achieve restaurant-quality mashed potatoes in your own kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

Creamy and smooth consistency – Yukon Gold potatoes provide a naturally buttery texture, while Russet potatoes create a light, fluffy mash.

Perfectly seasoned – A balance of salt, black pepper, and butter enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish.

Easy to customize – Adjust the consistency by adding more milk, or mix in garlic, cheese, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Great for meal prep – Can be made ahead of time and reheated without losing texture or taste.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes:

3 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes (about 8 medium Yukon Gold or 4 medium Russet)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature, cut into pieces
1 teaspoon salt, divided (plus more to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
½ cup whole milk, warmed (plus more as needed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Scrub the potatoes under cool water to remove any dirt. Peel them if desired, then cut into 1-inch pieces for even cooking.

Step 2: Boil

Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add ½ teaspoon salt to the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle boil. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain well.

Step 3: Dry Out the Potatoes

Return the drained potatoes to the hot pot and let them sit for 2 to 3 minutes. This helps evaporate excess moisture, preventing a watery consistency in the mashed potatoes.

Step 4: Mash

Add the butter to the warm potatoes and begin mashing using a potato masher. For an ultra-smooth texture, use a ricer or food mill.

Step 5: Season and Mix

Stir in the remaining ½ teaspoon salt, black pepper, and half of the warm milk. Continue mashing and mixing, adding more milk as needed until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Serve

Enjoy the mashed potatoes hot, with extra butter on top if desired.

Make-Ahead & Reheating Tips

Keep Warm

Mashed potatoes can be prepared up to 2 hours in advance and kept warm in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting. Stir occasionally to maintain texture.

Reheat in the Oven

Stir in a little extra milk, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent drying out.

Reheat in the Microwave

Place the mashed potatoes in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high in short intervals, stirring in between. Add warm milk as needed to maintain a creamy consistency.

Recipe Variations

Make them extra buttery – Stir in an additional tablespoon of butter for a richer flavor.

Add roasted garlic – Mix in roasted garlic for a deep, savory taste.

Make them cheesy – Stir in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or cream cheese for extra indulgence.

Add fresh herbs – Chopped chives, parsley, or rosemary can add freshness and a pop of color.

Final Thoughts

Homemade mashed potatoes are a simple yet essential side dish that complements almost any meal. Whether you prefer a creamy, buttery texture or a fluffier mash, this recipe provides the perfect base for customization. Try mixing Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes for the best of both worlds, and enjoy this classic dish any time of year.

Make these mashed potatoes for your next meal and bring comfort and flavor to the table!

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