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Easy Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Ah, mashed potatoes. The comfort food that has graced our dining tables for generations. When I whip up a batch, they bring back memories of family gatherings. 
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Servings: 10 Servings
Calories: 340kcal
Author: Bex Smith

Equipment

  • saucepan

Ingredients

  • 4 pounds potatoes Russet or Yukon Gold, peeled and cut into chunks
  • cup melted salted butter
  • 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
  • 3 cloves garlic minced (optional, for extra flavor)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder optional, for added depth of flavor
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg optional, for a subtle warmth and richness

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

  • Begin by peeling the potatoes. Cut them into 1-inch chunks. This will ensure even cooking. Place them in a large pot of cold water. This helps avoid an uneven cooking process.

Step 2: Steam the Potatoes

  • Bring a large pot of water to a simmer and place a steaming basket over the boiling water. Add the potato chunks to the basket, cover with a lid, and steam for about 20-25 minutes. The potatoes should be tender and easily pierced with a fork. This steaming method retains moisture without making them soggy.

Step 3: Warm the Dairy

  • While the potatoes are steaming, gently warm the melted butter and milk (or cream) in a separate saucepan. Warming prevents the potatoes from cooling down too quickly when you combine them.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

  • Once the potatoes are ready, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Use a potato masher or a ricer for an ultra-smooth finish. Start mashing while gradually adding in the warmed butter and milk mixture.

Step 5: Season to Taste

  • After achieving your desired consistency, season with salt, black pepper, and any optional garlic, onion powder, or nutmeg. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve!

  • Spoon the mashed potatoes into a serving bowl. You can add a dollop of butter on top for an even richer finish. Dig in!

Notes

To make your mashed potatoes the ultimate comfort food, consider the following tips:
Don’t Overwork Them: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to gluey potatoes.
Experiment with Dairy: Try mixing in sour cream for tanginess or even cream cheese for even more richness.
Save Starchy Water: Reserve a little of the potato cooking water to thin your mash as desired.
Keep Warm: If needed, place the mashed potatoes in a slow cooker on the warm setting until ready to serve.
Freezing: Mashed potatoes can be frozen for a quick meal later. Just reheat gently.

Nutrition

Calories: 340kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 200mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 1g
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