Best Mashed Potatoes

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If there’s one side dish that brings comfort to every table, it’s a bowl of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. Whether it’s part of a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers the ultimate velvety texture and rich flavor that will leave everyone reaching for seconds.

These mashed potatoes are whipped to smooth perfection with just the right balance of creaminess and seasoning. You can pair them with anything from roast chicken to a hearty stew, making them endlessly versatile. And the best part? They’re so simple to make, yet taste like you spent all day perfecting them.

Why You’ll Love This Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe

This mashed potatoes recipe strikes the perfect balance between ease and indulgence. It uses simple pantry staples but transforms them into something truly luxurious. The texture is dreamy and smooth, without any gluey heaviness, and the flavor is deeply satisfying, thanks to a combination of butter, cream, and just the right seasoning.

You’ll also love how customizable it is. Want to add roasted garlic or chives? Go for it. Need to make it ahead of time? It reheats beautifully. These mashed potatoes are not only crowd-pleasers, but also cook-friendly.

What Kind of Potatoes Make the Best Mashed Potatoes?

For mashed potatoes that are rich and fluffy, go with starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold. Russets break down easily and absorb butter and cream like a dream, while Yukon Golds offer a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture. Avoid waxy types like red potatoes, which can turn gummy when mashed.

Ingredients for the Best Mashed Potatoes

Great mashed potatoes start with the right ingredients, and each one plays an important role in building flavor and texture.

• Russet potatoes: These are ideal for a fluffy, smooth mash.
• Unsalted butter: Adds rich, savory flavor and silkiness.
• Heavy cream: Makes the potatoes luxuriously creamy.
• Whole milk: Lightens the richness just slightly and adds moisture.
• Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
• Black pepper: Brings a little subtle spice and balance.
• Garlic (optional): Adds a depth of flavor if you’re feeling fancy.

How To Make the Best Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and cut them into even chunks. This helps them cook uniformly, so you don’t end up with overcooked or undercooked pieces.

Step 2: Boil Until Fork-Tender

Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until they’re easily pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Drain and Dry

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Let them sit for a few minutes with the heat on low to allow excess moisture to evaporate. This helps prevent watery mashed potatoes.

Step 4: Add the Creamy Elements

Warm the butter, cream, and milk together. Then, mash the potatoes using a potato masher or ricer while slowly adding the warm mixture until smooth.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

How to Serve and Store Best Mashed Potatoes

This recipe serves about 6 people generously, making it perfect for small gatherings or a comforting family dinner. Serve it straight from the pot or transfer to a serving dish topped with a pat of butter for a classic presentation.

To store, let the potatoes cool completely and place in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat, stirring in a splash of milk or cream to bring back their smooth texture.

What to Serve With Mashed Potatoes?

Roast Chicken

A juicy roasted chicken is always a perfect match with creamy mashed potatoes.

Meatloaf

This comforting duo is a nostalgic dinner favorite.

Beef Stew

Hearty and rich, stew spooned over mashed potatoes is an unbeatable combo.

Garlic Butter Shrimp

For a surf-and-turf twist, creamy potatoes are excellent with garlic shrimp.

Gravy and Turkey

Perfect for holiday feasts or a mini Thanksgiving dinner.

Sautéed Greens

Add some color and freshness to your plate with spinach, kale, or Swiss chard.

BBQ Ribs

Sweet, tangy ribs pair surprisingly well with buttery mashed potatoes.

Fried Chicken

For a Southern-style comfort plate, nothing beats this pairing.

Want More Comfort Food Side Ideas?

If you love these mashed potatoes, you’ll probably enjoy these other warm and cozy dishes:

• Cajun Potato Soup for a spicy and creamy bite.
• Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions if you want something crispy and golden.
• Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad for a chilled pasta alternative.
• Honey Butter Skillet Corn for a sweet-savory flavor blast.
• Creamy Corn Dip as a cheesy shareable snack.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add garlic or stick to the classic version? Try any creative twists?

I always enjoy hearing how others make these dishes their own. Feel free to ask questions too – let’s cook better together.

Explore beautifully curated comforting recipes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite dish!

Conclusion

These Best Mashed Potatoes are creamy, flavorful, and the perfect comfort side dish. Whether you’re making them for a festive dinner or a weeknight meal, they deliver every single time. Try them once and they just might become your signature side.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?