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Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe

4.6 from 123 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Best Mashed Potatoes recipe delivers irresistibly smooth and creamy potatoes, enhanced with garlic, butter, and sour cream. Perfectly seasoned and easy to prepare, these mashed potatoes make a comforting and flavorful side dish ideal for holiday dinners or everyday meals.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Potatoes and Garlic

  • 3 pounds potatoes (russet potatoes, Yukon Golds, or a mix), peeled and cut into large chunks
  • 3 garlic cloves

Dairy and Seasonings

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick, plus more for serving)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt (plus more for the cooking water)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)

Garnish

  • Chopped fresh chives (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes and Garlic: Place the peeled and chunked potatoes along with the garlic cloves in a large pot. Cover them with cold water by about 1 inch and season the water with 1 tablespoon of salt to infuse flavor as they cook.
  2. Cook Until Tender: Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium to maintain a gentle boil. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender, ensuring they are soft enough to mash smoothly. Drain well and return the potatoes and garlic to the pot.
  3. Mash and Mix Ingredients: Begin mashing the potatoes and garlic using a potato masher until partially mashed. Add in the butter, whole milk, 1½ teaspoons sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper, continuing to mash until you achieve your preferred smooth consistency. For extra creaminess, gently fold in the sour cream with a spatula or wooden spoon.
  4. Season and Serve: Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the potatoes topped with additional butter and a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives for a beautiful and flavorful finish.

Notes

  • These are the best homemade mashed potatoes, delivering a smooth, creamy texture with rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes.
  • Top with butter and chives, or enhance with savory mushroom gravy for a comforting meal addition.
  • This recipe offers an easy and delicious side dish perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday gatherings, or any home-cooked meal.
  • Use a potato masher for a fluffy texture or a ricer for ultra-smooth potatoes if preferred.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8 recipe (about ½ cup)
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg