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Mashed Potatoes

Mashed Potatoes
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Learn the secret to making perfectly creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes quickly with this simple recipe. Using basic pantry staples and starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold, this recipe delivers smooth, rich mashed potatoes in under 20 minutes. Customize with butter, cream, garlic, herbs, or cheese to suit any meal occasion, making it a family favorite comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1–2 inch chunks
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream, warmed
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced or roasted (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dairy-free version)
  • 2 tablespoons crumbled bacon (optional for loaded mash)
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional for loaded mash)
  • 1 green onion, sliced (optional for loaded mash)
  • Pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Choose and Prepare Your Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into even chunks about 1 to 2 inches in size to ensure even and quick cooking.
  2. Boil Until Tender: Place the potato chunks in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes or until a fork easily pierces the potatoes.
  3. Drain and Dry: Drain the potatoes thoroughly to remove excess water. Return them to the hot pot for 1 to 2 minutes to allow any remaining moisture to evaporate, which helps achieve a fluffy texture.
  4. Mash and Mix: Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes until smooth. Warm the butter and milk or cream slightly, then gradually fold them into the mashed potatoes to create a silky, creamy consistency without lumps.
  5. Season to Taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper. Fold in optional ingredients like garlic or herbs gently. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Notes

  • Use warm milk and butter to blend better with hot potatoes for an ultra-smooth texture.
  • Avoid overmixing to prevent a gluey texture; mash just enough to remove lumps.
  • Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for fluffier mash; waxy potatoes may become dense.
  • Drying potatoes after boiling by steaming off excess water improves texture.
  • Salt the cooking water and taste to adjust salt levels after mashing for balanced flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy potatoes, comfort food, quick side dish

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/mashed-potatoes/