Buttery Mashed Potatoes
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this classic buttery mashed potatoes recipe. Made with starchy potatoes, rich butter, and creamy milk or cream, this side dish offers a smooth, velvety texture and rich flavor. Perfect for any meal or cozy night, it’s easy to customize and sure to be a family favorite.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling and Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk or cream, warmed
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for boiling water
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes if desired and cut into evenly sized chunks. Rinse the potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch, then place them in a pot of salted cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes, testing with a fork.
- Drain and Dry: Drain the potatoes thoroughly. Return them to the hot pot and place over low heat for 1-2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture, which helps improve the texture.
- Mash the Potatoes: Using a potato masher, ricer, or hand mixer, mash the potatoes until you reach your preferred smoothness. Avoid overmixing to keep them light and fluffy.
- Incorporate Butter and Cream: Warm the butter and milk or cream together until slightly melted. Gently fold the warm mixture into the mashed potatoes for even absorption and rich, creamy texture.
- Season and Serve: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, stir gently, and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or a pat of butter.
Notes
- Use starchy potatoes like Russets for fluffier mashed potatoes.
- Warm the butter and cream before mixing to keep potatoes light and absorb moisture evenly.
- Do not overmix to avoid gummy texture.
- Salt the boiling water to season potatoes from within.
- For silkiest texture, use a potato ricer instead of a masher.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: mashed potatoes, buttery mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, comfort food, side dish, easy potato recipe