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The Ultimate Creamy and Fluffy Mashed Potatoes

A generous serving of creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes piled high on a white plate.
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Make the best mashed potatoes every time with this straightforward recipe focusing on technique for ultra-creamy, buttery results perfect for any dinner or holiday feast.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover the potatoes 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. Reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer and cook until the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a fork, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Let them sit for 5 minutes to allow excess steam to evaporate. This step prevents watery mashed potatoes.
  4. While the potatoes drain, gently warm the milk and butter together in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter is melted. Do not boil the milk mixture.
  5. Return the drained potatoes to the warm, empty pot. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or a ricer until mostly smooth. Avoid over-mashing, which can release starch and make them gluey.
  6. Gradually pour the warm milk and butter mixture into the potatoes while continuing to gently fold or mash until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Stir in the salt, pepper, and heavy cream, if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Notes

  • Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the fluffiest texture, or Yukon Golds for a naturally buttery, creamy result.
  • Warming the dairy ingredients helps them incorporate better without cooling down the potatoes too quickly.
  • For a smooth texture, use a potato ricer instead of a hand masher.
  • For garlic mashed potatoes, add 2 cloves of crushed garlic to the milk and butter mixture while warming.

Nutrition

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