What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This mashed potato recipe is perfect for any occasion, with creamy, buttery goodness that everyone will love. It’s simple to make and uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
- Easy to customize: Add garlic, cheese, or herbs to make it your own.
- Comfort food at its best: Warm, creamy, and perfect for cozy dinners.
- Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday or weeknight meal, this dish always wins hearts.
Recipe
Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that’s creamy, buttery, and perfect as a side dish for any meal. This homemade version is simple to make and delivers rich, fluffy potatoes every time.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (about 4 medium) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain and Dry: Drain the potatoes in a colander, then return them to the warm pot for a minute to evaporate excess moisture.
- Mash the Potatoes: Add the butter, milk (or cream), salt, and pepper. Mash with a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth and creamy. For extra creaminess, warm the milk before adding.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add more salt or butter if needed. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For fluffier mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer instead of a masher.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Potato masher or hand mixer
Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine
American
Serving
4–6 servings
Nutrition
Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food, but it’s helpful to know their nutritional content.
| Nutrition | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 237 |
| Fat | 9g |
| Carbs | 35g |
| Protein | 5g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing mashed potatoes with juicy proteins like roast chicken or grilled steak—they complement each other perfectly. For classic side dishes, I often serve them with gravy-steamed veggies or buttery dinner rolls. These combos make the meal feel cozy and complete.
Pairing Proteins
Since mashed potatoes are such a comforting side, they pair perfectly with proteins that bring rich, savory flavors to the table. I love serving them with juicy roasted chicken, its crispy skin adding a nice contrast. A tender pot roast, slow-cooked until it falls apart, is another favorite—the gravy ties everything together. For something lighter, pan-seared salmon with a buttery glaze works wonders. Even a simple grilled steak, with its bold charred flavor, feels extra special next to creamy mash. Don’t forget pork chops, especially when they’re glazed with honey or mustard. Each bite feels like a cozy hug!
Classic Side Dishes
When I think of classic side dishes, mashed potatoes always come to mind, but they shine even more when paired with their trusty companions. I love serving them with buttery green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp garden salad for a fresh contrast. A warm, flaky biscuit or a slice of crusty bread soaks up any extra gravy, while creamed corn adds a touch of sweetness. For holidays, I’ll include cranberry sauce or roasted Brussels sprouts for extra color and flavor. These pairings turn simple mashed potatoes into a meal that feels cozy, complete, and just right.
