Perfect Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 5 Pounds Russet Potatoes
- 1 1/2 Cups Milk
- 2 Sticks Butter
1 Cup
- 1/3 Cup Sour Cream or Plain Greek Yogurt
- (or to taste1-2 teaspoons Salt)
- (or to taste1/2-1 teaspoon black pepper)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh Chopped Chives or Parsley for serving
optional
Directions
- 1
Rinse the potatoes thoroughly under warm water and place on a layer of paper towels, pat dry.
- 2
Peel the potatoes until no skin remains and place them into a large colander and rinse under cold water.
- 3
Place the potatoes on a cutting board and slice in half. Transfer to a large stock pot or dutch oven and cover with COLD water.
- 4
Place the pot on the stove and bring the potatoes to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork tender.
- 5
Meanwhile, heat the milk in the microwave or on a small saucepan on the stove just until warm.
- 6
Remove the pan from the heat and drain the water from the potatoes. Rinse the potatoes under cold gently running water, drain, then return them to the pot.
- 7
Use a potato masher (or hand or stand mixer) to start breaking up the potatoes.
- 8
If using a hand (or stand) mixer, turn it on low speed and mix while slowly pouring in the warm milk.
- 9
Add in both sticks of butter, the sour cream, and seasonings and continue mashing or mixing on medium speed for 1-2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- 10
Serve immediately. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Perfect Mashed Potatoes
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 11 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Tired of bland, lumpy mashed potatoes? Our Perfect Mashed Potatoes recipe guarantees a consistently flavorful and creamy side dish every single time. Get ready to elevate your dinner table with a classic made easy from scratch.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines by focusing on rich, quality ingredients that deliver an undeniably luxurious texture. The thoughtful combination of softened butter, whole milk, and tangy sour cream or Greek yogurt creates an emulsion that results in an incredibly smooth and decadent mouthfeel. It’s the generous, balanced additions that make these mashed potatoes stand out from the rest, ensuring they're anything but ordinary.
When you dive into these Perfect Mashed Potatoes, you'll discover a velvety smooth texture that melts in your mouth, infused with a comforting, savory flavor. The subtle hint of garlic powder complements the richness without overpowering, while the black pepper adds a gentle warmth. Making them from scratch is surprisingly straightforward, resulting in a side that tastes like it came from your favorite restaurant but was lovingly prepared in your own kitchen.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your personal preference; remember to taste as you go! For a tangier flavor, lean into the sour cream, or opt for plain Greek yogurt for a slightly lighter, yet still creamy, profile. While Russet potatoes are recommended for their ideal starch content, you can adjust the amount of milk for your desired consistency. Don't forget the fresh chopped chives or parsley for a bright, herbaceous finish.
These Perfect Mashed Potatoes are versatile, making them an ideal accompaniment for any meal, from a simple weeknight roast chicken to a festive holiday feast. They pair beautifully with rich gravies or can stand alone as a comforting dish.