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The Best Creamy and Fluffy Mashed Potatoes Recipe

A generous serving of fluffy mashed potatoes topped with melting butter in a white bowl.
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Make perfect, smooth mashed potatoes every time using simple ingredients. This recipe focuses on technique to achieve ultra-creamy, buttery results ideal for any dinner or holiday gathering.

Ingredients

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  • 3 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for boiling
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

Instructions

  1. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water by about one inch. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water.
  2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a fork.
  3. Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Let them sit for 5 minutes to allow excess steam to escape; this helps prevent watery potatoes.
  4. Return the drained potatoes to the warm, empty pot. Place the pot over very low heat for 1 minute, gently shaking the pot to dry them out further. Remove from heat.
  5. Add the warm milk and butter pieces to the potatoes. Let the butter melt for 2 minutes.
  6. Using a potato masher or a ricer (for the smoothest texture), begin mashing the potatoes. Work quickly to avoid overmixing.
  7. If using, stir in the sour cream, salt, and pepper until just combined and smooth. Do not overmix once the dairy is added.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving immediately.

Notes

  • For the fluffiest mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer instead of a hand masher.
  • Warm the milk and butter before adding them to the potatoes; cold liquids make the potatoes gluey.
  • If you want garlic mashed potatoes, add 2 cloves of peeled garlic to the water when boiling the potatoes.
  • For cheesy mashed potatoes, stir in 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese with the butter.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://pureplatepath.com/best-creamy-fluffy-mashed-potatoes-recipe/