Mastering Basic Mashed Potatoes: A Simple Guide to Fluffy Perfection
Today, I’m sharing our family’s go-to recipe for basic mashed potatoes. It’s simple, flavorful, and the perfect complement to any meal—especially when paired with my homemade gravy from scratch!
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Basic Mashed Potatoes
With our family being of Irish descent, it’s no surprise that potatoes hold a special place in our hearts and on our table at just about every meal! Whether it’s for a holiday dinner or a weeknight meal, mashed potatoes bring a touch of comfort and tradition to our kitchen.
This recipe features simple ingredients such as potatoes, milk and butter, but it delivers maximum flavor and that signature fluffy texture everyone loves. Plus, be sure to pair it with my homemade gravy to take these mashed potatoes to the next level!
Instructions
- Peel and prep the potatoes: Start by peeling and washing the potatoes. Then, cut them into even-sized chunks to ensure they cook evenly.
- Boil the potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender when poked with a fork.
3. Drain and mash: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them in a colander and transfer them to a large bowl. Add the butter, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mash everything together until you get a smooth and creamy consistency. If you prefer a smoother texture, feel free to add a little extra milk. This is the potato masher I like to use.
4. Season and serve: Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to pair these delicious mashed potatoes with my homemade gravy for an even more indulgent meal!
Basic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Russet Potatoes Or Yukon Gold Potatoes
- 4 tbsp salted butter Or unsalted butter
- 1/2 c milk
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Peel and wash the potatoes. Cut them into even chunks, to ensure they cook evenly.2 lbs Russet Potatoes
- Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when poked with a fork.
- Once the potatoes are tender, drain them in a colander and place into a large bowl.
- Add the butter, milk and salt and pepper. Mash until you get a creamy smooth texture. If you like a smoother consistency, you can add more milk.4 tbsp salted butter, 1/2 c milk, salt and pepper to taste
- Taste the mashed potatoes and add more salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
What makes this basic mashed potatoes recipe special is its simplicity. Using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes gives you a perfectly fluffy texture, while butter and milk create a creamy, comforting dish. It’s an easy recipe that delivers great results every time. Plus, the versatility of mashed potatoes makes them a great base for experimenting with flavors—try adding roasted garlic, herbs, or a bit of sour cream for a twist.
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