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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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