Who doesn’t love a big, fluffy pile of mashed potatoes? Mashed potatoes are my ultimate comfort food creamy, buttery, and oh-so-satisfying. Over the years, I’ve perfected my method to keep them extra fluffy and smooth. Whether it’s a family dinner, holiday feast, or just because you crave a cozy meal, this recipe never fails. Plus, it’s super simple. Let me share my secrets with you.
Method
Prep the Potatoes
To start, wash, peel, and cube the russet potatoes into similar-sized pieces. This helps ensure that all the potatoes cook at the same rate. Uneven pieces can result in some being overcooked while others remain hard. Once cubed, set the potatoes aside until you are ready to boil.
Boil the Potatoes
Next, place the potato cubes into a large pot. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the potatoes by about an inch. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the flavor of the potatoes. Set the pot over high heat and bring it to a rolling boil. This process should take about 5-7 minutes, depending on your stove’s power. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly to prevent overflowing and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. To test for doneness, insert a fork into a piece; it should slide in easily without resistance.
Drain and Mash
Carefully pour the boiled potatoes into a colander to drain the water completely. Let them sit for a minute to release any excess steam. Return the potatoes to the empty pot. At this stage, add the butter, milk, cream cheese, and salt to the hot potatoes. The residual heat will help the ingredients blend more easily. Using a potato masher, press down gently and mash in a circular motion. Continue until the potatoes reach a smooth, fluffy consistency. Be mindful not to over-mash, as doing so can make the texture gluey instead of creamy.
Serve or Store
Once your mashed potatoes are perfectly smooth and creamy, they’re ready to enjoy. Serve them hot, straight from the pot, or transfer them into a serving dish. If you plan to store them, allow them to cool slightly before spooning them into a Ziploc bag. Seal tightly, and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving.
Necessary Tools
- Large pot
- Potato peeler
- Knife
- Potato masher
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
- Mixing spoon
Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Cuisine: EuropeanDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes20
minutes30
minutesIngredients
8 russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
¼ cup butter
¾ cup milk
2 tbsp cream cheese
1 tsp salt
Directions
- Prep the Potatoes: Peel and cube the russet potatoes into equal-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Set the pot on high heat and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and Mash: Carefully drain the potatoes using a colander and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, cream cheese, and salt.
- Mash Until Smooth: Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and fluffy. Be gentle to avoid overmixing, which can make them gluey.
- Serve or Store: Enjoy the mashed potatoes right away, or store them in a Ziploc bag for later.Make sure to cut the potatoes into similar-sized chunks to ensure even cooking.
Notes
- Make sure to cut the potatoes into similar-sized chunks to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid over-mashing the potatoes, as it can turn them into a sticky paste.
- Use room-temperature butter and cream cheese to make blending easier.
- Don’t forget to season well; potatoes can be quite bland without salt.
Serving Suggestions
Mashed potatoes are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, turkey, meatloaf, or just with a dollop of gravy. Top with chives, bacon bits, or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.
Fun Fact
Did you know mashed potatoes originated in the UK around the 18th century? They became a staple thanks to their easy preparation and the comforting taste that people adored.
Conclusion
There you have it, the creamiest, fluffiest mashed potatoes you’ll ever taste. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to lumpy or gluey mashed potatoes. They’re perfect for any occasion and are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every creamy, buttery bite.
