Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Creamy, fluffy, and rich mashed potatoes are a timeless side dish that elevates any meal. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, having a reliable mashed potato recipe is essential. The Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe delivers perfectly smooth and flavorful potatoes every time. Infused with garlic and made extra rich with butter, heavy cream, and sour cream, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is for anyone who loves indulgently creamy mashed potatoes with a subtle garlic flavor that doesn’t overpower the dish. It’s perfect for those who want a no-fail recipe that ensures light, fluffy potatoes that aren’t too dense or watery. Whether you’re hosting a big dinner or simply craving a comforting side, these mashed potatoes are versatile, delicious, and easy to prepare.

You’ll love this recipe because:

• Rich and Creamy Texture: Thanks to the combination of butter, heavy cream, and sour cream.
• Perfectly Smooth: Using a potato ricer ensures no lumps for that restaurant-quality texture.
• Garlic Infusion: Cooking garlic in butter adds a delicate, aromatic flavor without being too strong.
• Easy to Follow: The steps are simple, even for novice cooks, with common ingredients and kitchen equipment.

Ingredients Overview

To achieve the best mashed potatoes, high-quality ingredients are key. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each item plays an essential role:

• 3 pounds of russet or Yukon gold potatoes: These varieties are ideal for mashed potatoes. Russet potatoes are starchy and yield a fluffy texture, while Yukon gold potatoes are creamier and naturally buttery. Either works perfectly in this recipe.
• 1 stick + 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt levels, and using a generous amount ensures rich flavor.
• 7 garlic cloves: These add a subtle yet fragrant garlic flavor, infusing the butter and making the dish more savory.
• 3/4 cup of warm heavy cream: Heavy cream provides the smooth and creamy consistency that makes mashed potatoes extra luxurious.
• 3/4 cup sour cream: Sour cream adds a slight tang and creaminess, helping to balance the richness of the dish.
• 1 teaspoon of salt (plus more to taste): Potatoes need ample seasoning, and the salt enhances all the other flavors in the dish.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make the perfect mashed potatoes, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Ricer: A potato ricer is key for achieving smooth, lump-free mashed potatoes. It helps break down the potatoes without overworking them, which can lead to a gluey texture.
• Stockpot: For boiling the potatoes, a large stockpot is necessary to ensure they cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Handheld Mixer: This helps whip the potatoes and blend the ingredients quickly, but be sure not to overmix.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Here’s how to prepare these delicious mashed potatoes step by step:

1. Melt the Butter with Garlic: In a small saucepan, melt 1 stick of butter over low heat. Allow the butter to continue melting until the white milk solids float to the top. Skim and remove these milk solids for clarified butter. Add the smashed garlic cloves and let them cook on low heat for about 15 minutes to infuse the garlic flavor into the butter. Afterward, discard the garlic cloves but keep the butter warm on low heat.
2. Boil the Potatoes: While the garlic is infusing, peel and cut 3 pounds of potatoes into large cubes. Place them in a large stockpot and cover with water. Season the water liberally with salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the potatoes until fork-tender, about 20 minutes.
3. Drain the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them thoroughly to remove excess moisture. It’s crucial that the potatoes are dry before mashing to avoid watery mashed potatoes. Let them sit in the colander for a few minutes, and you can even blot them with a dry paper towel to ensure all moisture is gone.
4. Rice the Potatoes: While the potatoes are still hot, pass them through a ricer directly into the same pot you cooked them in. A ricer helps create perfectly smooth mashed potatoes without lumps.
5. Add the Butter and Cream: Pour the warm garlic-infused butter and warm heavy cream into the riced potatoes. Use a hand mixer on medium speed to gently whip the potatoes and incorporate the butter and cream. Mix for 2-3 minutes, but be careful not to overmix as this can lead to a gluey texture.
6. Mix in Sour Cream: Add the sour cream and mix on the lowest speed until fully incorporated. The sour cream doesn’t need to be at room temperature, and mixing should take no more than 1 minute.
7. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to drizzle over the top. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and freshly chopped parsley for color and extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing: Overmixing mashed potatoes can result in a gluey or gummy texture. Use a light hand and avoid over-whipping.
• Not Draining Potatoes Properly: Be sure to drain the potatoes completely after boiling. Any extra moisture can cause the mashed potatoes to be watery.
• Undercooking the Potatoes: Potatoes that aren’t fully cooked will result in lumpy mashed potatoes. Always test with a fork to ensure they are tender.

Tips for the Best Mashed Potatoes

• Warm Your Ingredients: Using warm butter and cream helps the potatoes absorb the liquids better, resulting in a creamier texture.
• Use a Ricer: This tool ensures the smoothest mashed potatoes by breaking them down gently without overworking them.
• Season Generously: Potatoes need a good amount of salt to bring out their natural flavors, so don’t skimp on seasoning.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

For a beautiful presentation, spoon the mashed potatoes into a serving bowl, creating swirls on the surface with the back of a spoon. Drizzle with the melted butter and sprinkle with paprika for a pop of color. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives also add a nice touch for both flavor and visual appeal.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for an extra rich and cheesy version.
• Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives to enhance the flavor of the mashed potatoes.
• Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Swap the regular garlic for roasted garlic to bring out a sweeter, milder garlic flavor.

Storage and Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the mashed potatoes in a saucepan with a splash of milk or cream to restore their creamy consistency. Warm them over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time? Yes! You can make them up to one day in advance. Store them in the fridge and reheat over low heat, adding a little extra cream or butter to bring back the creaminess.

What type of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes? Russet and Yukon gold potatoes are the best choices. Russets are starchy and give a fluffy result, while Yukon golds are naturally creamy and buttery.

How can I make my mashed potatoes smoother? Using a ricer is the best method to ensure lump-free mashed potatoes. Avoid using a blender or food processor, as they can make the potatoes too dense.

Conclusion

There you have it, the Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe that guarantees fluffy, flavorful, and creamy mashed potatoes every time. Whether you’re making them for a family meal or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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