BEST Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Name: BEST Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes; 1 stick + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 7 cloves garlic, smashed; 3/4 cup warm heavy cream; 3/4 cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

By:

Luna

October 18, 2025

Delicious bowl of creamy mashed potatoes topped with butter and herbs

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📑 Table of Contents ▶

H2: Crafting the Best Mashed Potatoes
H3: Fundamentals
H3: Preparation/Setup
H3: Ingredients
H3: Directions
H2: Mastering Your Technique
H3: Technique
H3: Tips/Tricks
H2: Perfecting the Results
H3: Perfecting Results
H3: Troubleshooting/Variations
H2: Serving and Presentation
H3: Serving/Presentation
H3: Pairings/Storage
Conclusion
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BEST Mashed Potatoes Recipe

The kitchen often transforms into a battleground of flavors, especially when it comes to making the best mashed potatoes. Every holiday, family gathering, or cozy dinner begins with the same unifying question: how will the potatoes be prepared? The unmistakable creamy texture and buttery taste make them the ultimate comfort food.

Memories flood back to childhood days spent with my grandmother, stirring steaming pots on the stove. Those moments are woven into the rich fabric of family traditions, where buttery mashed potatoes served as the centerpiece of dinners and the perfect companion to many meals. The best mashed potatoes carry a history, a story that evolves with every recipe variation shared among family and friends.

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Creating the best mashed potatoes invites you into a world of simplicity and joy. This recipe uses basic ingredients, elevating them into something truly extraordinary. With just a few steps, you can create fluffy, rich mashed potatoes that will impress anyone who takes a bite. Let’s dive into how to perfect this iconic dish.

H2: Crafting the Best Mashed Potatoes

H3: Fundamentals

A fantastically smooth mash relies heavily on two crucial factors: the potato type and the technique. Selecting either russet or Yukon gold potatoes plays a significant role. Russet potatoes yield a fluffier texture, while Yukon gold potatoes offer a creamy finish. Both options provide a delectable flavor base for the best mashed potatoes.

The preparation process also contributes to achieving that unforgettable texture. Boiling the potatoes until fork-tender allows them to soften before they meet their flavorful companions, like butter and cream. Don’t skip on salting the water either—it’s essential for infusing flavor into the potatoes as they cook.

H3: Preparation/Setup

To set up for making the best mashed potatoes, start by peeling and cutting the potatoes into large, uniform cubes. This ensures even cooking and smooth blending. Gather the other essential ingredients: unsalted butter, garlic, heavy cream, sour cream, and salt. This combination elevates the potatoes, transforming them into a delectable side dish.

Grab a medium pot to boil your potatoes. Fill it with enough water to cover the cubes and generously season it with salt. Cooking the potatoes should take about 20 minutes, reducing the heat to a simmer once boiling begins. While they cook, prepare the savory garlic-infused butter for an aromatic twist in the dish.

H3: Ingredients

To create the best mashed potatoes, you’ll need these simple ingredients:

3 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes: These potatoes provide the foundation for your dish.
1 stick + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Butter adds that rich flavor and creamy texture we crave.
7 cloves garlic: Smashed garlic infuses the butter with a savory note.
3/4 cup warm heavy cream: Cream helps achieve that luscious, smooth consistency.
3/4 cup sour cream: The tang adds complexity to the dish.
1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste: Salt brings out all the delicious flavors.

H3: Directions

Now that you have everything ready, let’s walk through the steps to achieve the best mashed potatoes.

In a small saucepan, melt 1 stick of butter over low heat. As it melts, allow white milk solids to rise to the top. Remove them, and then add the smashed garlic. Cook it slowly for around 15 minutes to let the garlic flavor infuse into the butter. Once done, remove and discard the garlic, keeping the buttery goodness warm.
Add the prepared potatoes to a medium pot and cover them with water. Season liberally with salt. Bring the pot to a boil before reducing to a simmer, cooking until fork-tender, which takes about 20 minutes.
Drain the potatoes thoroughly, ensuring you remove all excess moisture. A colander works well for this, but it helps to let them drain for a few minutes and then blot with a dry paper towel.
While the potatoes are still hot, pass them through a ricer back into the pot you cooked them in. This process breaks them down, yielding a smoother consistency.

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Pour the warm melted butter and heavy cream over the riced potatoes. Use a hand-held mixer on medium speed to whip the potatoes until creamy, being careful not to over mix. This takes about 2-3 minutes.
Finally, add the sour cream and mix on the lowest setting until smooth—another minute will suffice. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as desired.
Transfer the dreamy potatoes to a serving dish. Melt the remaining two tablespoons of butter and pour it over the top. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and freshly chopped parsley.

H2: Mastering Your Technique

H3: Technique

Achieving the best mashed potatoes comes down to perfecting your technique. The ricing method ensures velvety texture, while the temperature of the ingredients plays a role in the final outcome. Mixing cold cream or butter with hot potatoes can lead to starchiness, impacting the creaminess you aim for.

Additionally, avoid over-beating the potatoes. This can lead to a gluey texture instead of the desired fluffiness. Use gentle motions to incorporate the flavors to keep them rich and creamy.

H3: Tips/Tricks

Several tips can help you nail the best mashed potatoes:

Save the skins: If you prefer a rustic mash, keep the skins on the potatoes. This adds texture and flavor.
Experiment with flavors: Add herbs like chives or thyme for a fresh twist.
Consider consistency: If you enjoy saucier potatoes, incorporate more cream until you reach your preferred texture.
Warm your cream: Always warm heavy cream to avoid cooling the potatoes, ensuring you keep a consistent temperature throughout.

H2: Perfecting the Results

H3: Perfecting Results

To perfect the best mashed potatoes, watch the cooking time carefully. Overcooked potatoes become gummy, while undercooked ones can be lumpy. The sweet spot lies just before they’re fork-tender. Additionally, let them sit out for a brief moment after cooking to avoid excess moisture impacting the texture.

H3: Troubleshooting/Variations

Sometimes, even a well-prepared dish can face hiccups. If your potatoes turn out too thick, gradually stir in more warm cream. If they seem bland, a hint of additional salt often solves the issue.

Explore variations by mixing in roasted garlic for a more robust garlic flavor, or add some cream cheese for a tangy twist. The beauty of mashed potatoes is how flexible they can be with simple modifications.

H2: Serving and Presentation

H3: Serving/Presentation

Beautifully presented mashed potatoes elevate the overall dish. Serve them in your best dish and use the remaining butter for a luxurious finish. A sprinkle of paprika and chopped parsley not only highlights the dish but also adds a pop of color to the palate.

H3: Pairings/Storage

Mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with various proteins and vegetable dishes. Think of roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a hearty beef stew. They can also join your favorite meatloaf recipe with kindness and comfort.

For storage, place leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to restore their creamy texture.

Conclusion

Creating the best mashed potatoes is all about simplicity and technique. Begin with quality ingredients and focus on the right process, and those potatoes will shine at any mealtime. As you explore this recipe, remember that practice makes perfect. Each attempt not only refines your skills but also invites a delicious sense of connection to those you share the meal with. Enjoy crafting your own tradition around this timeless dish and savor the comfort it brings to your table.

BEST Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Author: emily
Total Time: 35
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes that are the ultimate comfort food and perfect for any family gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

3 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes
1 stick + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
7 cloves garlic, smashed
3/4 cup warm heavy cream
3/4 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

Instructions

In a small saucepan, melt 1 stick of butter over low heat; skim off white milk solids and add smashed garlic. Cook for about 15 minutes.
Add prepared potatoes to a medium pot, cover with water, and season with salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 20 minutes until fork-tender.
Drain the potatoes thoroughly and let them sit for a few minutes; blot with a dry paper towel.
Pass the hot potatoes through a ricer back into the pot.
Pour warm melted butter and heavy cream over the riced potatoes; whip with a hand-held mixer until creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add sour cream and mix on low for another minute. Season to taste.
Transfer to a serving dish, pour remaining butter on top, and garnish with paprika and parsley.