Description
This Creamy Basic Mashed Potatoes recipe offers a simple, delicious side dish featuring tender, fluffy potatoes enriched with warm milk and butter for smooth, comforting mashed potatoes perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes and Flavorings
- 2 pounds baking potatoes (such as russets), peeled and quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled (optional, for added flavor)
Dairy and Seasonings
- 1 cup milk (whole, low-fat, or half-and-half for a richer texture)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and quartered potatoes along with the garlic cloves if using. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when tested with a fork.
- Heat the Milk and Butter: While the potatoes are cooking, gently heat the milk and butter together in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter has melted completely. Set this warm mixture aside.
- Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot. Gradually add the warm milk and butter mixture, mashing the potatoes with a potato masher or blending with an electric mixer until the texture is smooth and creamy.
- Season and Serve: Season the mashed potatoes with salt and ground black pepper to your liking. Serve immediately while warm, optionally topped with extra butter or gravy for added richness.
Notes
- Using russet potatoes yields the fluffiest mashed potatoes due to their high starch content.
- Warming the milk and butter before mixing helps keep the potatoes hot and absorbs better for creaminess.
- Adding garlic while boiling infuses a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering.
- For extra smooth mashed potatoes, use an electric mixer or a ricer.
- Leftovers can be reheated gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
