If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate mashed potatoes, you’ve just found your go-to recipe! These mashed potatoes are everything you want them to be—smooth, fluffy, creamy, and full of buttery flavor. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this simple recipe never fails.
If you love potato sides as much as I do, don’t miss my Scalloped Potatoes, Twice Baked Potato Casserole, and Perfect Baked Potatoes—they’re all crowd-pleasers!
Why You’ll Love These Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a staple side dish in our house. I serve them with everything from Crock Pot Pork Chops to Baked Chicken Thighs and even Oven-Baked Salmon. There’s just something comforting about a big spoonful of warm, buttery mashed potatoes next to your main course. With just a few simple tricks, this easy recipe turns out perfect every time!
What Potatoes Are Best for Mashing?
The kind of potato you choose makes a big difference in the final texture:
- Yukon Gold potatoes are my favorite. They’re naturally creamy and buttery, making them perfect for rich mashed potatoes.
- Russet potatoes give you a lighter, fluffier mash.
- Want the best of both worlds? Use half Yukon Gold and half Russet.
- You can use red potatoes, but the texture tends to be heavier and less creamy.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the best mashed potatoes:
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes (about 8 medium Yukon Gold or 4 medium Russet)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- ½ cup whole milk, warmed (plus more as needed)
How to Make Mashed Potatoes
- Prep the Potatoes: Scrub them clean and peel if desired (I usually peel Russets but leave Yukon Gold skins on). Cut into 1-inch chunks for even cooking.
- Boil: Place the cut potatoes in a pot of cold water and add ½ teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 12–15 minutes, or until very tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain and Dry: Drain well and return the potatoes to the hot pot. Let them sit for 2–3 minutes to allow excess moisture to steam off—this helps make them fluffy!
- Mash and Mix: Add the butter to the hot potatoes and mash by hand until smooth. Stir in the warm milk, salt, and pepper. Add more milk as needed to reach your desired creaminess.
- Taste and Serve: Adjust the seasoning and serve warm with a pat of butter or a sprinkle of fresh chives.
Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes Every Time
- Start with cold water: This ensures the potatoes cook evenly.
- Salt the water: Just like with pasta, salting the water seasons the potatoes from the inside out.
- Make sure they’re tender: Undercooked potatoes lead to lumps!
- Dry them out: Letting the potatoes sit in the hot pot after draining removes extra moisture for a fluffier texture.
- Mash by hand: Avoid gummy potatoes by using a masher instead of a mixer. Overmixing breaks down starches and creates a gluey texture.
- Use warm ingredients: Warm milk and softened butter blend in more easily and keep the potatoes hot.
Make Ahead & Reheating Tips
These mashed potatoes are easy to prepare in advance!
- Make ahead (up to 2 hours): Keep warm in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting.
- Reheat in the oven: Transfer to a baking dish, stir in a bit of milk, cover, and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reheat in the microwave: Stir in a splash of milk and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
Flavor Variations
Want to mix it up? Try these tasty variations:
- Extra Creamy: Use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.
- Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes: Use buttermilk for a tangy twist (don’t heat the buttermilk).
- Cream Cheese: Stir in 4 oz. softened cream cheese for a rich, creamy texture.
- Sour Cream: Add 2+ tablespoons for tang and extra creaminess.
- Garlic: Stir in garlic powder or roasted garlic for a flavorful twist.
- Herbs: Add fresh chives, parsley, or thyme—or sprinkle in dried herbs like oregano or basil.
- Bacon: Sprinkle cooked bacon over the top for an indulgent finish.
- Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Stir in sour cream, shredded cheddar, bacon crumbles, and green onions.
More Potato Recipes to Love
- Crockpot Mashed Potatoes
- Smashed Potatoes
- Creamy Potato Salad
- Roasted Potatoes and Carrots
- Twice Baked Potatoes
Final Thoughts
This mashed potatoes recipe is truly a keeper. With just a handful of ingredients and a few pro tips, you’ll get the perfect creamy, fluffy texture every single time. Whether you’re making them for a holiday table or just a cozy dinner at home, they’re sure to be a hit.
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