Description
Creamy Classic Mashed Potatoes bring comfort and warmth to dinner tables across America. Russet potatoes whipped with butter and cream create a rich side dish perfect for gatherings and holiday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs (1 kg) russet or Yukon gold potatoes
- 4 tbsps unsalted butter
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh chives or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Potato Preparation: Immerse potato chunks in a generously salted cold water bath within a large pot, ensuring complete submersion.
- Boiling Process: Elevate pot to medium-high heat, allowing water to reach a vigorous boil before transitioning to a gentle simmer. Cook potatoes for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Draining and Drying: Strain potatoes through a colander, returning them to the warm pot for rapid moisture evaporation. This critical step prevents waterlogged results.
- Mashing Technique: Utilize a potato masher, ricer, or electric mixer to transform potatoes into a silky, lump-free canvas. Methodically break down the potatoes for optimal smoothness.
- Creamy Enhancement: Integrate softened butter and warm milk incrementally, stirring consistently to achieve a luxurious, velvety texture. Introduce garlic powder for depth of flavor if desired.
- Seasoning Finalization: Calibrate flavor profile with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tailoring to individual taste preferences. Ensure thorough and even distribution of seasonings.
- Presentation: Transfer to a serving dish, crowning with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a vibrant garnish. Serve immediately to preserve temperature and textural integrity.
Notes
- Select Potato Type Wisely: Choose starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the fluffiest, most creamy mashed potatoes with perfect texture.
- Prevent Waterlogging: Start with cold water and salt to ensure even cooking and prevent potatoes from becoming soggy or watery during boiling.
- Master Mashing Technique: Use a potato ricer or masher for smoother consistency, avoiding electric mixers that can make potatoes gluey and overworked.
- Temperature Control Matters: Warm butter and milk before adding to prevent cooling down the potatoes and maintain a luxurious, creamy temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg