Mashed Potatoes
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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes hold a candle to the timeless classic, Mashed Potatoes. This beloved side dish has graced family gatherings, holiday meals, and weeknight dinners for generations. And there’s a good reason why it’s been a cherished staple on our tables for so long.
Mashed Potatoes are the epitome of simplicity, yet their comforting, creamy, and satisfying nature makes them irresistible. With simple ingredients like hot boiled potatoes, milk, salt, pepper, and butter, this delicious Mashed Potato recipe will become your new favorite way to make this easy side dish!
WHY YOU’LL LOVE MASHED POTATOES
- Simplicity at Its Best: Mashed Potatoes are the epitome of simplicity in cooking. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that’s warm and comforting and the perfect canvas for your favorite flavors.
- Creamy Comfort: There’s something inherently soothing about a spoonful of creamy mashed potatoes. The velvety texture and buttery goodness are like a warm hug for your taste buds.
- Versatile Delight: Mashed Potatoes aren’t just a side dish; they’re a versatile canvas for culinary creativity. You can keep them classic or add various herbs, spices, and mix-ins to suit any meal.
- Perfect Pairing: Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate companion to a wide range of dishes. From roast chicken to holiday turkey, they elevate any main course to new heights.
- Satisfying Side: When you want a side dish that’s guaranteed to please, Mashed Potatoes fit the bill. They’re a favorite among adults and children alike, making them the ideal addition to family meals.
INGREDIENTS YOU NEED TO MAKE MASHED POTATOES
- Russet Potatoes
- Milk
- Iodized Salt
- Black Pepper
- Unsalted Butter
WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE MASHED POTATOES
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Stock Pot
- Hand Mixer or KitchenAid Stand Mixer
HOW TO MAKE MASHED POTATOES
Step 1: Peel the potatoes and slice them to approximately 1″ thick.
Step 2: Rinse the potato slices and place them in a pot of cold water, ensuring the water covers the potatoes by about 1″.
Step 3:Boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender.
Step 4:Drain the water completely.
Step 5: Place the cooked potatoes in a mixing bowl and add salt, pepper, and butter. Begin with 1 3/4 cups of milk.
Step 6:Start mixing on low speed to break up the potatoes (about 2 minutes) and then increase the speed. Aim for fluffy potatoes, slowly adding milk as needed.
Step 7:Mix for approximately 5-8 minutes until the potatoes are light and creamy. Enjoy!
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What can I serve this homemade mashed potatoes recipe with?
This easy recipe pairs perfectly with Salisbury steak, roast turkey, or any of your other favorite meals!
Can I use other types of potatoes for mashed potatoes?
While russet potatoes are the classic choice for mashed potatoes, you can experiment with other varieties, like Yukon Gold potatoes or red potatoes, for different textures and flavors.
How can I make my mashed potatoes creamier?
You can add more butter and milk as needed to achieve a creamy texture. Be sure to mix thoroughly to incorporate these ingredients evenly.
Are there any variations of mashed potatoes I can try?
Yes, mashed potatoes are incredibly versatile. You can explore variations like garlic mashed potatoes, loaded mashed potatoes with cheese and bacon, or even mashed sweet potatoes for a twist.
You can also add fresh herbs, parmesan cheese, sour cream, or cream cheese for more flavor!
Can I prepare mashed potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare mashed potatoes in advance. Reheat them with a little extra milk and butter to restore their creaminess before serving.
How can I store leftover mashed potatoes?
- Cool the Mashed Potatoes: After serving your mashed potatoes, allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature. It’s important not to leave them out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
- Transfer to an Airtight Container: Once cooled, transfer the mashed potatoes to an airtight container. It’s a good idea to portion them into serving sizes if you anticipate reheating them separately.
- Refrigerate: Place the airtight container in the refrigerator. Mashed potatoes can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover mashed potatoes, you can reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a little milk or butter to restore their creaminess, as they tend to thicken when chilled. For stovetop reheating, use a non-stick pan, and for the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish.
- Enjoy: Reheated mashed potatoes may not have the exact same texture as when freshly made, but they are still delicious and make for a quick and convenient side dish.
Mashed Potatoes
Equipment
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Stock Pot
- Hand mixer or KitchenAid mixer
Ingredients
- 4 lbs russet potatoes. peeled
- 1 3/4-2 1/2 cups of milk
- 2 tsp iodized salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup butter room temp
Instructions
- Peel the potatoes and slice about 1″ thick.
- Rinse off and place in a pot of water.
- The water should cover the potatoes by about 1″.
- Boil until fork tender.
- Drain the water completely.
- Place the potatoes in a mixing bowl and add the salt, pepper, butter and start with 1 3/4 cup of milk.
- Start the mixer on low to break up the potatoes, about 2 minutes.
- Then increase the speed. We’re looking for creamy potatoes, slowly adding milk as needed.
- Mix for approx. 5-8 minutes until light and creamy. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Mashed Potatoes are more than just the perfect side dish; they’re a warm and creamy embodiment of comfort and simplicity. Whether you’re crafting a family dinner or a holiday feast, Mashed Potatoes are there to make every meal feel like a warm embrace. With their versatility and timeless appeal, Mashed Potatoes are sure to be a hit at your table, creating moments of joy that everyone will remember.
Why iodized salt? Have not seen that specified in a recipe in eons.
Use your preferred salt
How many potatoes do you need to cook for 4 people?
You can cut this recipe in half 🙂