Creamy, buttery, and irresistibly smooth, *Real Mashed Potatoes a.k.a. The Ultimate Comfort Food* is a timeless side dish destined to elevate any meal. Made with fluffy Russet potatoes, rich unsalted butter, and warm whole milk, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence. Optional garlic cloves add a subtle depth of flavor, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley creates an elegant finishing touch. With just 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes total, these mashed potatoes deliver homestyle flavor in no time. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or comforting family meals, this recipe is your go-to guide for creating the best mashed potatoes.
Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks, about 2 inches wide. This ensures they cook evenly.
Place the potato chunks into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water and, if using, the smashed garlic cloves.
Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.
While the potatoes cook, heat the milk and butter in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter is melted. Do not let the mixture boil.
Drain the cooked potatoes in a colander and remove the garlic (if used). Return the drained potatoes to the pot.
Mash the potatoes using a potato masher, ricer, or handheld electric mixer until smooth or your preferred consistency.
Gradually stir in the warm milk and butter mixture, mixing gently to combine. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the potatoes gluey.
Season the mashed potatoes with additional salt and ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Calories |
1837 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 77.9 g | 100% | |
| Saturated Fat | 45.4 g | 227% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 208 mg | 69% | |
| Sodium | 2601 mg | 113% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 260.4 g | 95% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.2 g | 72% | |
| Total Sugars | 22.0 g | ||
| Protein | 39.9 g | 80% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.0 mcg | 10% | |
| Calcium | 430 mg | 33% | |
| Iron | 13.6 mg | 76% | |
| Potassium | 6689 mg | 142% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.