Description
This rich and creamy mashed potatoes recipe is the perfect comfort food side dish. Made with Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, butter, garlic, whole milk, and optional sour cream, it’s a flavorful, smooth, and satisfying classic that’s easy enough for weeknights and delicious enough for holidays.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold, Russet, or a mix): Base of the dish, provides creamy or fluffy texture
- 3 garlic cloves: Adds savory depth and aroma
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (plus more for serving): For richness and a buttery flavor
- 1 cup whole milk: Helps achieve a creamy consistency
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt (plus more for boiling water): Enhances overall flavor
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup sour cream (optional): Adds tang and extra creaminess
- Chopped fresh chives (for garnish): Provides freshness and color
Instructions
- Peel and cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot along with the garlic cloves.
- Cover the potatoes with cold water by 1 inch and add a tablespoon of salt to the water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and cook for 15–20 minutes or until fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and shake off any excess water. Return them to the warm pot.
- Begin mashing the potatoes and garlic using a potato masher until partially mashed.
- Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Continue mashing until completely smooth.
- Stir in the sour cream, if using, and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve warm, topped with extra butter and chopped chives if desired.
Notes
- Mix Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes for the best texture—fluffy and creamy.
- Let potatoes steam dry after draining to prevent watery mash.
- Reheat with milk or butter to restore creamy consistency.
- Avoid using a blender or food processor to prevent gummy potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiled and Mashed
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: mashed potatoes recipe, creamy mashed potatoes, homemade mashed potatoes, easy mashed potatoes, fluffy mashed potatoes, side dish, holiday mashed potatoes