There’s nothing quite like a bowl of real mashed potatoes to warm your heart and soul! Creamy, buttery, and oh-so-fluffy, these potatoes are the perfect sidekick to any meal. Just boil your favorite spuds, mash them up with a generous dollop of butter, a splash of rich chicken broth, and a sprinkle of garlic powder for that extra zing. Finish with a touch of cream for dreamy texture, and you’ve got a dish that’s pure comfort. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked—it’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Mashed potatoes have been a staple in various cuisines worldwide, with their origins tracing back centuries. For a comprehensive history and variations of this beloved dish, visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mashed_potato
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Trust me, you’re going to love this creamy, dreamy texture!
- This one’s a game-changer for your holiday dinners.
- Simple ingredients mean you can whip these up anytime.
- Perfectly customizable with your favorite add-ins!
- They pair beautifully with just about any dish.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Side Dish |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 20 minutes |
| Total Time: | 35 minutes |
| Dietary: | Vegetarian |
| Serves: | 4-6 |
| Best Served: | With gravy or butter |
Ingredients
- Potatoes – The star of the dish; choose starchy varieties like Russets for creamy texture.
- Butter – Adds richness and flavor; use unsalted for better control over seasoning.
- Milk – Provides creaminess; whole milk or heavy cream works best for a luxurious feel.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors; add gradually to taste.
- Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spice; freshly ground gives the best flavor.
- Garlic Powder – For a subtle garlic flavor; a little goes a long way.
- Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and creaminess; can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
For an in-depth understanding of different potato types and their best culinary uses, refer to the University of Maine’s guide: https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/2492e/
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up some delicious real mashed potatoes that will warm your heart!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect 2 pounds of russet potatoes, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of whole milk, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Prep the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes and cut them into even chunks, about 1-2 inches.
Step 3: Boil the Potatoes
Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
Step 4: Cook Until Tender
Let the potatoes boil for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain them well.
Step 5: Mash the Potatoes
Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Use a potato masher or ricer for a smooth texture.
Step 6: Add Butter and Milk
Mix in the butter and warm milk gradually, stirring until creamy and dreamy.
Step 7: Season to Taste
Add salt and pepper to your liking. Taste and adjust for perfection!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your fluffy mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Dig in and savor every bite!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy texture and buttery flavor.
- Warm your milk or cream before adding it to the potatoes for a smoother mix.
- Don’t overmix; gently fold in the ingredients to keep them fluffy.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder or fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost.
- For a richer taste, incorporate a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese.
How to Serve
- Top with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Sprinkle with fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color.
- Pair with roasted chicken or turkey for a classic meal.
- Serve alongside grilled vegetables for a healthy twist.
- Mix in some garlic for a flavorful kick.
- Use as a base for a hearty shepherd’s pie.
- Enjoy with a rich mushroom gravy for added depth.
- Incorporate cheese for a cheesy mashed potato delight.
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli for a balanced plate.
- Top with crispy fried onions for a crunchy texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Allow mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Portion out servings for easy thawing.
• Leave some space in the container for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of milk or cream for creaminess.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
real mashed potatoes
Equipment
- 1 large pot For boiling the potatoes.
- 1 potato masher or ricer For mashing the potatoes.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet potatoes Choose starchy varieties for creamy texture.
Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter Adds richness and flavor.
Milk
- 1/2 cup whole milk Provides creaminess.
Seasonings
- to taste salt Enhances all the flavors.
- to taste black pepper Adds a hint of spice.
- to taste garlic powder For a subtle garlic flavor.
- optional sour cream Adds tanginess and creaminess.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Collect 2 pounds of russet potatoes, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of whole milk, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Prep the Potatoes
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into even chunks, about 1-2 inches.
Step 3: Boil the Potatoes
- Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
Step 4: Cook Until Tender
- Let the potatoes boil for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain them well.
Step 5: Mash the Potatoes
- Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Use a potato masher or ricer for a smooth texture.
Step 6: Add Butter and Milk
- Mix in the butter and warm milk gradually, stirring until creamy and dreamy.
Step 7: Season to Taste
- Add salt and pepper to your liking. Taste and adjust for perfection!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer your fluffy mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Dig in and savor every bite!
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FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for real mashed potatoes?
For the creamiest and fluffiest real mashed potatoes, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. These varieties break down easily when cooked, resulting in a smooth texture that’s perfect for mashing.
Can I make real mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare mashed potatoes a few hours in advance. Just keep them warm in a slow cooker or covered in a warm oven. If you need to store them longer, refrigerate and reheat gently, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
How can I make my mashed potatoes extra creamy?
To achieve extra creaminess, use plenty of butter and warm milk or cream when mashing. You can also try adding sour cream or cream cheese for a rich flavor and velvety texture that elevates your mashed potatoes.
What can I use instead of butter in mashed potatoes?
If you’re looking for a butter substitute, try using olive oil or a dairy-free spread. These options can provide a delicious flavor while keeping your mashed potatoes creamy and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—real mashed potatoes that are not just a side dish but a warm hug on a plate! So, roll up your sleeves, grab those spuds, and let the magic happen. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a dish that brings smiles and nostalgia to the table. Enjoy every creamy, buttery bite, and remember, the best meals are made with love!
