Description
This Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe delivers perfectly creamy, smooth, and flavorful mashed potatoes made with simple ingredients including russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, garlic, butter, and whole milk. Optional sour cream adds extra richness, and fresh chives provide a bright garnish. A classic comfort food side dish that’s easy to prepare and pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 3 pounds potatoes (russet, Yukon Gold, or a mix), peeled and cut into large chunks
- 3 garlic cloves
Dairy & Seasoning
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), plus more for serving
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1½ teaspoons sea salt, plus more for the cooking water
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ to ½ cup sour cream (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes and garlic: Place the peeled and chunked potatoes along with the garlic cloves in a large pot. Cover them with cold water by about one inch and season the water with a tablespoon of salt to enhance flavor.
- Cook the potatoes: Bring the pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and gently boil for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain and return to pot: Drain the cooked potatoes and garlic thoroughly and return them to the pot to prepare for mashing.
- Begin mashing and add dairy: Using a potato masher, start mashing the potatoes and garlic until partly smooth. Then add the butter, whole milk, 1½ teaspoons of sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Continue mashing until the potatoes reach a completely smooth consistency.
- Fold in sour cream: If using, gently fold in ¼ to ½ cup of sour cream with a spatula or wooden spoon to add creaminess and slight tang.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve topped with extra butter and a sprinkle of chopped fresh chives for color and freshness.
Notes
- Use a mix of russet and Yukon Gold potatoes for balanced flavor and texture.
- Starting with cold water ensures even cooking.
- Do not overboil the potatoes to prevent them from becoming waterlogged.
- To make vegan mashed potatoes, substitute butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk and sour cream alternatives.
- Sour cream is optional but adds a nice tang and creaminess.
- Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor and vibrant color as garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
