Simple Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Easy Side Dish (Print Version)
Whip up Simple Creamy Mashed Potatoes with this easy recipe. Learn my tricks for fluffy, flavorful spuds, even through kitchen chaos!
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
# Ingredients:
→ Base Ingredients
01 -
2 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
02 -
1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
→ Dairy & Fat
03 -
1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
04 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened and cut into pieces
→ Flavor Boosters
05 -
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
→ Finishing Touches
07 -
2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, peel those potatoes! I usually grab a vegetable peeler and get to it. Once they're naked, cut them into roughly 1-inch chunks. This helps them cook evenly. Honestly, this is where I always forget to salt the water, so don't be like me! Pop them into a large pot, cover with cold water by about an inch, and add a good tablespoon of salt.
02 -
Bring that pot to a rolling boil over high heat. Once it's bubbling, reduce the heat to medium and let them simmer until they're fork-tender. This usually takes me about 15-20 minutes. You want them soft enough that a fork slides right through with no resistance. Don't overcook them, or they'll get watery, which is a total bummer, I've done that too many times!
03 -
This step is crucial, trust me! Carefully drain the potatoes in a colander. Then, here's my little trick: put the empty pot back on the stove over low heat and return the drained potatoes to the warm pot. Let them sit for a minute or two, shaking the pot gently. This steams off any excess water, making for fluffier Simple Creamy Mashed Potatoes. You can practically see the steam escaping!
04 -
Now for the fun part! Add your softened butter and minced garlic to the warm potatoes in the pot. Grab your potato masher and get to work. Mash until there are no large lumps left, but don't go crazy! Over-mashing can lead to gummy potatoes, and nobody wants that. I like a few small lumps, gives it character, you know?
05 -
Slowly, gradually, add the warmed whole milk (or half-and-half) a little at a time, continuing to mash and stir. I usually warm the milk slightly in the microwave first; it helps everything incorporate better. Keep adding until you reach your desired creamy consistency. Taste and adjust the salt and freshly ground black pepper. This is where you make it <em>yours</em>.
06 -
Once you've got that perfect, fluffy, creamy consistency, it's time to serve! Transfer your Simple Creamy Mashed Potatoes to a warm serving bowl. If you're feeling fancy, a pat of butter on top and a sprinkle of fresh chives just finishes it off beautifully. The smell alone is enough to make mouths water, honestly. Enjoy every comforting bite!
# Notes:
01 -
Never over-mash your potatoes; it activates the starch and makes them gummy.
02 -
Make sure your potatoes are properly drained and dry before adding dairy.
03 -
For extra flavor, roast the garlic before mashing it in.
04 -
A dollop of sour cream or cream cheese stirred in adds a lovely tang.
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
potato masher
03 -
mixing bowls
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 300
Total Fat: 18g
Total Carbohydrate: 30g
Protein: 5g