Introduction

This classic mashed potatoes recipe is creamy, buttery, and perfectly fluffy—ideal as a comforting side dish for any meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can make the best mashed potatoes right at home.

The Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 ½ lbs. Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2–3/4 inch dice
1 Tbsp. salt
2 Tbsp. butter
¼ cup milk, heated

Instructions

Step 1: Place the diced potatoes into a pot filled with cold water and add the salt. Cover the pot slightly and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, uncover and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes.
Step 2: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the potatoes become dry, about 1-2 minutes. Remove the pot from heat.
Step 3: Add the butter to the potatoes and mash until smooth. Stir in the heated milk gradually. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt if needed.
Step 4: Serve the mashed potatoes immediately. Alternatively, cover with foil to keep warm until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

Use warm milk to keep the potatoes creamy and prevent them from becoming gluey.
For extra richness, substitute half the milk with cream or add a dollop of sour cream.
Try adding roasted garlic or chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added flavor.
Avoid over-mashing to keep a light, fluffy texture; a potato masher works better than a food processor.

Storage

Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts to keep the texture smooth. Add a splash of milk if they seem dry.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for mashed potatoes?

Russet potatoes are best for fluffy mashed potatoes due to their high starch content, but Yukon Golds can be used for a creamier, denser texture.

How can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?

You can prepare mashed potatoes a day ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Reheat slowly with added milk or cream before serving for the best texture.

The Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 84 reviews

This classic mashed potatoes recipe delivers creamy, fluffy, and comforting mashed potatoes made from tender Russet potatoes, butter, and warm milk. Perfect as a versatile side dish for any meal, it’s easy to prepare and highlights the simple, rich flavors of well-seasoned potatoes.

Author: Dylan
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

2 ½ lbs. Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into ½–¾ inch dice
1 Tbsp. salt

Dairy

2 Tbsp. butter
¼ cup milk, heated

Instructions

Prepare Potatoes: Place the diced potatoes into a large pot filled with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water. Cover the pot slightly and turn heat to high.
Cook Potatoes: When the water reaches a boil, uncover the pot and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook the potatoes until they are easily pierced with a fork, approximately 15 minutes.
Drain and Dry: Strain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander, then return them to the pot. Heat over medium while stirring gently to evaporate excess moisture until the potatoes are dry, about 1-2 minutes. Remove pot from heat.
Mash and Season: Add the butter to the hot potatoes and mash until smooth and creamy. Gradually stir in the warm milk. Taste the mashed potatoes and season further with salt if needed.
Serve: Serve the mashed potatoes immediately for best texture and flavor, or cover with foil to keep warm until ready to serve.