Homemade Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, and making them from scratch adds a personal touch to any meal. Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this homemade mashed potatoes recipe is the perfect side dish. The creamy, buttery texture and rich flavor make it an instant crowd-pleaser. Follow this easy recipe to create mashed potatoes that are fluffy, flavorful, and hard to resist!

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe is a fantastic go-to because it balances flavor, texture, and ease of preparation. Yukon Gold potatoes provide a natural creaminess, and the combination of butter, sour cream, and a hint of Dijon mustard creates a rich, indulgent dish that pairs well with nearly any main course. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but luxurious enough for Thanksgiving or Christmas. Plus, with just a few pantry staples, you’ll have a side dish that never disappoints.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this perfect mashed potatoes recipe:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes – Peeled and cut into 1 ½-inch cubes.
• 1 ½ tablespoons Kosher salt – Divided between boiling the potatoes and seasoning.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter – 4 tablespoons diced for mixing, 2 for finishing.
• ½ cup sour cream – Adds a tangy richness to the potatoes.
• ½ cup whole milk, heated – To make the mash extra creamy.
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard – Provides subtle depth and a slightly sharp flavor.
• ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – For seasoning.
• Finely chopped parsley – A fresh garnish for presentation.

this RECIPE

Best Potatoes to Use for Mashed Potatoes

The choice of potatoes makes a significant difference in texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are the best option because they are naturally creamy and slightly sweet. They mash smoothly, giving a luxurious, buttery finish. If you can’t find Yukon Gold, you can substitute them with Russet potatoes, which offer a fluffier texture, but be cautious not to overcook them, as they can become too starchy.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Mashed Potatoes

Let’s dive into how to make the perfect mashed potatoes with easy-to-follow instructions.

1. Boil the Potatoes
   Place your peeled and diced Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot. Add enough cold water to cover them by about an inch and sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for around 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are just fork-tender. Be careful not to overcook to avoid waterlogged potatoes.
2. Drain and Return to Pot
   Drain the potatoes using a colander and return them to the hot pot. Allowing the potatoes to sit in the pot for a few minutes helps evaporate excess water, ensuring your mashed potatoes aren’t soggy.
3. Mash and Mix
   Add the diced 4 tablespoons of butter to the pot, letting them melt over the hot potatoes. Next, stir in the sour cream, hot milk, Dijon mustard, the remaining ½ tablespoon of salt, and black pepper. Use a potato masher to mash everything until you achieve your desired consistency. For extra smooth potatoes, an electric hand mixer can be used, but be careful not to over-mix to avoid gummy potatoes.
4. Serve and Garnish
   Once the mashed potatoes are creamy and smooth, transfer them to a serving bowl. Top with the remaining 2 tablespoons of sliced butter and sprinkle with finely chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Tips for Achieving Creamy, Smooth Mashed Potatoes

1. Use Warm Milk
   Adding cold milk to hot potatoes can cause them to become gluey. Always warm your milk before adding it to ensure it incorporates smoothly.
2. Don’t Over-Mix
   If you’re using a mixer, be mindful not to overwork the potatoes. Over-mixing releases too much starch, which can result in a sticky or gummy texture.
3. Butter First
   Melt the butter into the potatoes before adding any liquid. This coats the potatoes and creates a silkier finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Mashed Potatoes

• Overcooking the Potatoes: Potatoes that are over-boiled will absorb too much water, making your mash runny and difficult to thicken.
• Skipping the Salt: Seasoning the cooking water with salt ensures that your potatoes are flavorful from the inside out.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or milk can cool down your potatoes and lead to lumps. Always use room temperature or warmed ingredients.

Variations and Flavor Boosters

To customize your mashed potatoes, try adding these delicious extras:

• Roasted Garlic: Mix in roasted garlic for a savory, aromatic twist.
• Cheese: Fold in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère for cheesy mashed potatoes.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives can add a bright, herbaceous note to the dish.
• Bacon Bits: For a smoky crunch, sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the top before serving.

Serving and Presentation Ideas for Mashed Potatoes

Presentation is key, especially if you’re serving mashed potatoes at a holiday meal or dinner party. Spoon the mashed potatoes into a shallow serving dish and use the back of a spoon to create a swirl on the surface. Garnish with a generous pat of butter, fresh parsley, and a dash of black pepper for a professional finish. For a rustic look, serve directly from the pot or a cast-iron skillet.

Storing and Reheating Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help restore their creamy texture. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Homemade Mashed Potatoes FAQ

• Can I use a different type of potato?
  Yes, you can use Russet potatoes for a fluffier texture or red potatoes for a more rustic mash with a slightly waxy finish.
• How do I make dairy-free mashed potatoes?
  Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like margarine or olive oil, and replace the sour cream and milk with plant-based versions such as almond milk and dairy-free yogurt.
• Can I freeze mashed potatoes?
  While mashed potatoes can be frozen, the texture may change slightly. For best results, freeze in small batches and reheat with additional butter or cream to restore creaminess.

Conclusion

This homemade mashed potatoes recipe is the perfect side dish to elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving them with roast chicken, steak, or a holiday turkey, these creamy, buttery mashed potatoes will be a hit with everyone at the table. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes!

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