Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Introduction
These best mashed potatoes are creamy, smooth, and packed with comforting flavor. Made with garlic and butter, they are perfect as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds potatoes (russet potatoes, Yukon Golds, or a mix, peeled and cut into large chunks)
- 3 garlic cloves
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick, plus more for serving)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1½ teaspoons sea salt (plus more for the cooking water)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ to ½ cup sour cream (optional)
- Chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the potatoes and garlic in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Season the water with a tablespoon of salt.
- Step 2: Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and gently boil for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return to the pot.
- Step 3: Begin to mash the potatoes and garlic with a potato masher. When they are partially mashed, add the butter, milk, salt, and several grinds of pepper. Continue mashing until the potatoes reach your desired consistency (smooth is recommended), then fold in the sour cream if using.
- Step 4: Season to taste and serve topped with butter and chopped fresh chives.
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of russet and Yukon Gold potatoes for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- For extra richness, warm the milk and butter before adding them to the potatoes.
- Sour cream adds tang and silky creaminess but can be omitted for a more classic taste.
- Add roasted garlic instead of boiled garlic for a sweeter, deeper flavor.
Storage
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the texture if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day ahead. Keep them refrigerated and reheat gently before serving, stirring occasionally to restore creaminess.
What type of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?
Russet potatoes provide a fluffy texture, while Yukon Golds offer a buttery taste and creaminess. Using a combination gives the best flavor and texture balance.
PrintBest Mashed Potatoes Recipe
This classic mashed potatoes recipe delivers creamy, buttery, and perfectly smooth mashed potatoes with a subtle hint of garlic and a touch of fresh chives, making it the perfect comfort food side dish for any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Potatoes and Garlic
- 3 pounds potatoes (russet potatoes, Yukon Golds, or a mix), peeled and cut into large chunks
- 3 garlic cloves
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick, plus more for serving)
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¼ to ½ cup sour cream (optional)
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1½ teaspoons sea salt (plus more for the cooking water)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare and Boil Potatoes: Place the peeled and chunked potatoes along with the garlic cloves into a large pot. Cover them with cold water, ensuring the water level is about 1 inch above the potatoes. Season the water with 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
- Cook Until Tender: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and allow the potatoes and garlic to gently boil for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Then drain the water and return the potatoes and garlic to the pot.
- Mash and Add Ingredients: Begin mashing the potatoes and garlic using a potato masher. When partially mashed, add the butter, milk, sea salt, and several grinds of freshly ground black pepper. Continue mashing until the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
- Fold in Optional Sour Cream: Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold in the sour cream if you choose to use it. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish. Top with additional butter and garnish with chopped fresh chives for a vibrant finish.
Notes
- For best texture, use russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, or a mix of both.
- Adding garlic cloves while boiling infuses a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Sour cream is optional but adds extra creaminess and a slight tang.
- Be careful not to overmix to avoid gluey mashed potatoes; use gentle mashing for a fluffy texture.
- You can adjust the milk quantity for thinner or thicker mashed potatoes.
- Serve immediately for the best creamy texture, or keep warm on very low heat before serving.
Keywords: mashed potatoes, classic recipe, creamy mashed potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, side dish, comfort food, butter, sour cream, chives
