BEST Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Every family has that one dish that feels like a warm hug at the dinner table, and for mine, it’s the best mashed potatoes recipe. A holiday gathering or a simple weeknight dinner isn’t complete without a heaping spoonful of creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes. The first time I made this recipe was during a chilly Thanksgiving, armed with nothing but determination and my grandmother’s handwritten notes.

As I peeled and chopped three pounds of russet potatoes, the kitchen filled with laughter and the enticing aroma of garlic-infused butter. My joy kept soaring as I riced the potatoes, added warm cream, and watched everybody’s eyes light up when they took their first bite. With every creamy, buttery spoonful, I knew I had created more than just a side dish; I’d crafted a family tradition.

This journey of discovering the best mashed potatoes recipe became a delightful page in our family history, serving as a reminder of the love that food can bring. Nestled on our table, this comfort food steals the show each time, proving that good food truly fosters connection.

Part 1 — Mastering the Best Mashed Potatoes

Fundamentals

Understanding the fundamentals of mashed potatoes sets the foundation for perfection. Begin with the right type of potatoes. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work wonders due to their high starch content, resulting in a creamy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes; they won’t give you that light and fluffy outcome everyone dreams of.

Another essential element is the temperature of your ingredients. Using warm heavy cream and melted butter ensures that the potatoes remain fluffy and smooth. Cold liquids can shock the potatoes, leading to a dense and gummy texture, which is counterproductive to achieving the best mashed potatoes.

Preparation/setup

Before diving into cooking, gather all your ingredients: three pounds of peeled and cubed russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, one stick plus two tablespoons of unsalted butter, seven cloves of garlic, three-quarters of a cup of warm heavy cream, three-quarters of a cup of sour cream, and salt. Having everything ready makes the cooking process flow smoothly and minimizes any chaos.

Start by melting one stick of butter over low heat in a small saucepan. Keep this warm so that the butter retains its liquid state, facilitating a seamless mixing process when added to the potatoes. Meanwhile, prepare the potatoes by placing them in a medium pot and covering them with water. Don’t forget to season generously with salt; it enhances the overall flavor of the mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into large cubes
• 1 stick + 2 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 7 cloves garlic (cloves individually smashed with the back of a knife)
• 3/4 cup warm heavy cream
• 3/4 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

Directions

Melt one stick of butter on low heat until the white milk solids rise to the top. Remove these milk solids and discard them. Add the smashed garlic cloves to the butter and let them infuse over low heat for 15 minutes. After the infusion, carefully remove and discard the garlic cloves, keeping the butter warm on low heat.

While the garlic infuses, boil the potatoes in salted water for about 20 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain all excess moisture, which is vital for preventing any watery texture. I recommend letting them drain for a few minutes in a colander and then blotting them with a dry paper towel for good measure.

Once drained, pass the potatoes through a ricer back into the same pot. Pour in the warm melted butter, salt, and warm cream. Use a handheld mixer at medium speed until combined. Don’t overmix; about 2-3 minutes should do it. Add the sour cream and mix on the lowest setting until smooth. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish.

Melt the remaining two tablespoons of butter and drizzle it over the top of your masterpiece. A sprinkle of paprika and chopped parsley adds both color and flavor, making your best mashed potatoes not only taste incredible but look delightful on the table.

Part 2 — Making the Most of Your Mashed Potatoes

Technique

Perfecting the technique of whipping mashed potatoes yields fluffy results every time. Using a ricer rather than a masher is a game changer. The ricer creates a light texture, allowing air to circulate through the potatoes, elevating the creaminess to new heights. This wonderful tool guarantees no lumps, which is key to achieving the best mashed potatoes.

Control is crucial. When mixing, maintain a careful hand to avoid overworking the potatoes. Overmixing activates the starch and can turn what should be light and airy into an unfortunate gluey dish.

Tips/tricks

To elevate your mashed potatoes, consider adding a touch of flavor enhancements. While this recipe shines on its own, customization can be delightful. Infusing garlic into the butter is just the beginning; try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.

If you prefer a bolder flavor, a hint of roasted garlic can offer depth. To make roasted garlic, simply cover a head of garlic in olive oil, wrap it in foil, and roast until soft and caramelized. Squeeze the soft cloves into the potatoes for a delightful savory experience.

For creaminess, consider mixing in a bit of cream cheese or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese during the whipping process. Each of these ingredients will take your best mashed potatoes to a level that could impress even the most discerning guests.

Part 3 — Perfecting Results

Perfecting results

Achieving perfection with mashed potatoes comes down to a few key elements. Selecting the right potatoes is fundamental, as is ensuring every step stays true to maintaining their fluffy texture. Remember that draining excess moisture post-boiling is not just a suggestion; it’s essential for avoiding that dreaded wateriness.

Monitoring temperatures during mixing also plays a vital role. All ingredients should stay warm to keep the mashed potatoes light and delicious. The combination of warm potatoes, melted butter, and warm cream forms a lovely emulsion that defines the texture.

Troubleshooting/variations

Even the best intentions can hit a roadblock. If your mashed potatoes turn out too gummy or dense, you may have overmixed or used the wrong type of potato. Try again using your ricer and be mindful of the mixing process.

If the flavor feels flat, adjust with additional salt or a hint of seasoning. A little experiment with different spices can also open up a whole new world for your palate. Enjoy experimenting with flavors like smoked paprika or a dash of garlic powder for added zing.

Part 4 — Serving and Storing

Serving/presentation

Presentation makes a significant impact, especially for a comfort food centerpiece like mashed potatoes. A simple technique involves creating a small well in the center of the mashed potatoes before drizzling the melted butter over the top. This little detail creates a lovely visual and ensures every guest gets a taste of that buttery goodness.

It’s also lovely to add colorful garnishes, such as freshly chopped parsley or chives. They not only add vibrancy to the dish but also balance the richness of the butter and cream. The sprinkling of paprika can also enhance the visual appeal while contributing a slight hint of flavor.

Pairings/storage

Mashed potatoes complement various main dishes, making them a versatile side. Pair them with roasted chicken or a classic meatloaf for a comforting classic meal. Storing leftovers is a cinch. Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Stored this way, they can last up to five days in the refrigerator.

To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to bring them back to life and achieve that desired creaminess. This ensures every bite tastes as fresh as the first.

Conclusion

Good food, like the best mashed potatoes recipe, has a way of bringing people together. The creamy, buttery blend creates comforting waves of nostalgia and warmth. As you dive into this cherished recipe, remember that love and care in preparation yield unforgettable results. Enjoy the rich flavors, the fluffy texture, and the happy moments shared around your dinner table.

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