Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe lovers, you’re in for a treat! If you’ve ever searched for the perfect mashed potatoes—ultra-creamy, rich, and flavorful with just the right texture—this recipe checks every box. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or the Thanksgiving table, these mashed potatoes always steal the show.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🥔 Perfect Texture – Creamy and smooth without being gluey
- 🧄 Bold, Balanced Flavor – A mix of butter, garlic, and sour cream delivers richness with a tangy kick
- ⏱ Easy to Prepare – Simple steps with everyday ingredients
- 🍽 Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for holidays or batch cooking
- 👨👩👧👦 Crowd-Pleaser – Loved by picky eaters and foodies alike
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes (or a mix), peeled and chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled
- ½ cup unsalted butter (plus more for serving)
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup sour cream (optional but recommended)
- 1½ teaspoons sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes
Peel and chop potatoes into large, even chunks. Smaller Yukons can be halved; larger russets may need quartering. - Boil with Garlic
Place potatoes and garlic cloves in a large pot. Cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Add a tablespoon of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. - Drain and Dry
Drain the potatoes and return them to the warm pot. Let them sit for 1–2 minutes to release steam (this helps reduce sogginess). - Mash to Perfection
Use a potato masher to begin mashing. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Continue mashing until smooth and fluffy. Stir in sour cream for extra creaminess and tang. - Taste and Adjust
Add more butter, milk, or seasoning as needed. Finish with chopped chives and a dab of butter for serving.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~260
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fiber: 3g
Note: Exact values may vary depending on ingredients used.
Tips & Variations
- 🥄 Texture Tip: Want extra fluff? Use a hand mixer for ultra-smooth potatoes.
- 🌿 Flavor Twist: Add a touch of cream cheese or roasted garlic for a gourmet spin.
- 🧈 Butter Matters: Use good quality unsalted butter for the best flavor control.
- 🕒 Make Ahead: Reheat gently with extra milk or butter stirred in.
- 🥔 Best Potato Combo: Mix Yukon Gold for flavor + Russet for fluff = perfection!
FAQs
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and omit the sour cream or use a vegan alternative.
How do I avoid gummy mashed potatoes?
Don’t overwork them! Use a masher, not a food processor. Overmixing releases starch and makes them gluey.
What’s the best way to reheat?
Microwave with a splash of milk, or cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
For the creamiest texture, yes. If using Yukon Golds, you can leave the thin skin on for a more rustic mash.
Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Equipment
- – Large pot
- – Potato masher or ricer
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- – 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes peeled and chopped
- – 3 garlic cloves peeled
- – ½ cup unsalted butter plus more for serving
- – 1 cup whole milk
- – ½ cup sour cream optional
- – 1½ tsp sea salt
- – Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- – Chopped fresh chives for garnish
Instructions
- Peel and cut potatoes into large chunks.
- Place potatoes and garlic in a pot, cover with water, and salt generously.
- Boil for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain and return to pot. Let steam dry.
- Mash, then mix in butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in sour cream (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot, garnished with chives and extra butter.
Notes
– Avoid overmixing to prevent gumminess
– Can be made ahead and reheated
Conclusion
These truly are the Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe—simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re hosting a holiday meal or craving comfort food on a Tuesday night, this recipe delivers every time.