Traditional Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery, and irresistibly comforting, this recipe for Traditional Mashed Potatoes is a timeless side dish that embodies simplicity and flavor. Made with fluffy Russet potatoes, unsalted butter, and warm whole milk, these mashed potatoes deliver a velvety texture that's both luxurious and satisfying. An optional touch of garlic lends a subtle depth of flavor, while a garnish of fresh chives can add brightness to your presentation. Perfect as a complement to roasted meats, holiday feasts, or weeknight dinners, this classic dish comes together in just 35 minutes. Whether you're hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy family meal, these mashed potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Russet potatoes
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 0.5 cups Whole milk
- 1 teaspoons Salt
- 0.5 teaspoons Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cloves Garlic (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks (about 1.5-inch pieces) to ensure uniform cooking.
Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water.
(Optional) If using garlic, peel the cloves and add them to the pot with the potatoes for a subtle garlic flavor.
Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle boil. Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
While the potatoes are cooking, warm the milk in a small saucepan over low heat (do not boil). This helps the potatoes absorb the milk more easily.
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them thoroughly in a colander. Allow them to sit for 1-2 minutes to let excess moisture evaporate.
Return the drained potatoes to the pot or transfer them to a mixing bowl. Add the butter and warm milk.
Mash the potatoes using a potato masher, ricer, or electric hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the potatoes gummy.
Season the mashed potatoes with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped chives if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1377 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 51.9 g | 67% | |
| Saturated Fat | 30.3 g | 152% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 139 mg | 46% | |
| Sodium | 2542 mg | 111% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 207.9 g | 76% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.4 g | 59% | |
| Total Sugars | 16.4 g | ||
| Protein | 31.2 g | 62% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 317 mg | 24% | |
| Iron | 10.9 mg | 61% | |
| Potassium | 5322 mg | 113% | |
*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.
