easy mashed potatoe recipe

easy mashed potatoe recipe

The Best easy mashed potatoe recipe

I’ve been making this easy mashed potato recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic comfort food that never fails to satisfy. I love how it’s so simple to make, yet it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, especially the potatoes. I like to use Russet or Idaho potatoes, as they have a higher starch content that makes them perfect for mashing. The first time I made this recipe, I was surprised by how creamy and fluffy the potatoes turned out.

It was a game-changer for me as a home cook. Now, I make it all the time for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just as a quick weeknight dinner. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, especially when we’re making this recipe.

They get to muddle around with the potatoes and add their own favorite seasonings. It’s a great way to teach them about cooking and get them involved in meal prep. One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility.

You can serve it alongside roasted meats, steamed vegetables, or even as a side dish on its own. It’s also incredibly easy to scale up or down depending on how many people you’re serving. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or just need a quick meal for your household, this easy mashed potato recipe is sure to please.

I’ve even been known to make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use – more on that below! The health benefits of this recipe are numerous too – mashed potatoes are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the potatoes themselves. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins for added nutrition and flavor.

Easy Mashed Potatoes

Easy Mashed Potatoes

4.9 from 1256 votes

This recipe creates creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with minimal effort. It is perfect for a quick side dish that pairs well with any main course.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 250 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Potatoes

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
1 teaspoon salt
6 cups water

For the Mash

1/2 cup whole milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the potato chunks and 1 teaspoon of salt in a large pot.
2Add the water and bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and easily pierced with no resistance.
3Drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot.
4Cook over low heat for 1 minute, shaking the pot occasionally, to remove excess moisture.
5Add the butter pieces and milk to the pot.
6Mash the potatoes with a masher or ricer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes, then stir in the remaining salt and pepper.
7Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
8Serve hot, garnished with extra butter or fresh herbs if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Potato masher or ricer
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 250 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For extra creamy potatoes, warm the milk and butter before adding. Avoid over-mashing to prevent a gluey texture.

Watch Video Of How Easy Mashed Potatoes Works

One of my favorite things about this easy mashed potato recipe is how well it stores and reheats.

You can refrigerate it for up to three days or freeze it for months – just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the microwave or oven until warm and creamy again.

For serving ideas, try topping individual servings with crispy bacon bits or chopped chives for added crunch and color.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mashed Potatoes

Q: What type of potatoes are best for mashing?

For mashing, you want high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho.

Q: Can I use leftover mashed potatoes as a topping?

Yes! Leftover mashed potatoes can be used as a topping for shepherd’s pie or other casseroles.

Q: How do I reheat leftover mashed potatoes without drying them out?

To reheat leftover mashed potatoes without drying them out, try microwaving them with a splash of milk or water until they’re warm and creamy again.

Q: Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Ahead of time is perfect for making mashed potatoes – simply mash them up and refrigerate or freeze until needed.

Q: What are some fun ways to mix up mashed potato toppings?

Mix up your toppings with cheese, bacon bits, chopped scallions, sour cream dollops – the possibilities are endless!

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