Introduction
There’s something simply divine about a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes. They are the ultimate comfort food, known for their smooth, velvety texture and rich buttery flavor. Perfectly prepared mashed potatoes, like these, can elevate any meal—from a cozy family dinner to a festive holiday feast. You won’t be able to resist the creamy goodness and savory aroma wafting through your kitchen as they cook!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Optional: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Optional: Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by placing the peeled and chopped Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot, ensuring they’re fully covered with cold water.
- Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring it to a boil over high heat. This helps to season the potatoes as they cook.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer until they are fork-tender, which will take about 15-20 minutes.
- After they’ve softened, drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the warm pot.
- If you’re including garlic for an extra flavor boost, add the minced garlic to the potatoes and let it sit for a minute to warm through.
- Next, add the room temperature butter, milk or cream, salt, and pepper to the pot with the drained potatoes.
- Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash the potatoes until they achieve that desired creamy consistency.
- Taste your masterpiece and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the mashed potatoes warm, garnished with fresh chives or parsley for a splash of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
For an extra creamy texture, consider using heavy cream instead of milk. If you’re a garlic lover, roasting the garlic before mashing adds a wonderful depth of flavor. You can also customize these mashed potatoes with cream cheese or sour cream for a tangy twist!
Cooking Techniques
To keep your mashed potatoes extra fluffy, try a gentle hand with your masher or mixer—over-mixing can lead to a gummy texture. Additionally, always use warm ingredients (like butter and milk) when combining them with the potatoes, ensuring they meld beautifully without turning gluey.
FAQ
Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes ahead and keep them warm in a slow cooker. Stir in a bit more milk or cream before serving if they’ve thickened up.
What’s the best type of potato for mashing?
Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect due to their buttery flavor and texture. Russets are also a great choice for a fluffier mash!
How do I fix lumpy mashed potatoes?
If you find your potatoes are lumpy, simply give them a quick run through a ricer or use a hand mixer to smooth them out further.
Conclusion
These creamy mashed potatoes are a timeless classic that never fail to impress. Whether served alongside a juicy roast, a comforting casserole, or enjoyed all on their own, they are sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. So gather your loved ones, grab a spoon, and dig into this comforting staple that feels just like home!