Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, smooth, buttery, and perfectly seasoned. Made with fluffy potatoes, a touch of cream, and just the right amount of butter, they’re the perfect side dish for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or any meal that needs a cozy, hearty touch.
In this blog post, you will learn how to make creamy mashed potatoes.
How to Make Mashed Potatoes
To make your mashed potatoes, begin by peeling your potatoes.
Next, slice your potatoes into small cube-shaped pieces.
Place all of the chopped up potatoes into a pot of water and bring them to a boil. You can add a dash of salt to the water for extra flavour.
Once the pot has been brought to a boil, let it boil for about 35 minutes or until the potato cubes are soft when pierced with a fork.
Drain the water from the potatoes through a colander, then mash them up into fine pieces.
Add the butter, let it melt, and mix it evenly into the mash. Add the cream and stir well until they are nice and smooth.
Lastly, add the salt to taste and keep covered until ready to serve!
The Best Potatoes for Mashed
- Yukon Golds are naturally buttery, slightly waxy, and hold their shape while still mashing smoothly. Great for creamy mashed potatoes with a rich texture.
- Russets (Idaho potatoes) are high in starch, light, and fluffy when mashed. Perfect if you like very smooth, cloud-like potatoes, but they can even be used in my crispy Air Fryer Potato Cubes.
- A Mix (Russet + Yukon Gold) of potatoes is something that many cooks swear by combining the two. Russets give that light, airy base, while Yukon Golds add creaminess and a golden colour.
Ingredients
Potatoes: potatoes are the main ingredient in this side dish. A versatile vegetable they can literally be used so many different ways! Try adding Roasted Garlic for extra flavour or for a twist try making my smooth mashed sweet potatoes recipe!
Salted Butter: salted butter is used for extra flavour and creaminess.
Cream: cream keeps the mashed potatoes thick while also making them fluffy and soft.
Salt: salt adds flavour.
What can I serve with mashed potatoes?
Mashed potatoes pair perfectly with roast chicken, pork chops, roast beef, meatloaf with glaze, turkey, sausages, beef stew, and gravy. They’re also a classic side dish for Thanksgiving and other holiday dinners.
Tips
- You can use milk instead of cream, but the potatoes will not be as thick and have as creamy of a taste to them.
- If you want to peel and cut up your potatoes the night before, you will need to place the potatoes into a bowl of water to prevent them from browning. Do not keep them in the water for too long or else they will become waterlogged.
Looking for more side dish recipes? Try the recipes below!
- Potato Wedges
- Baked Potatoes
- Macaroni & Cheese
- Slow-Cooker Stuffing
- Roasted Carrots
- Oven Roasted Potatoes
Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. potatoes
- 1/4 c. salted butter
- 1/3 c. regular cream
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Peel the potatoes and cut them up into diced pieces.
- Place the diced potatoes into a pot of water. Add a pinch of salt then bring to a boil.
- Boil the potatoes for about 35 minutes or until they are tender when pierced by a fork.
- Remove from heat and drain the water through a colander.
- Mash the potatoes until thoroughly mashed.
- Add the butter and let melt. Stir in completely then add the cream and mix well.
- Add salt to taste. Top with thyme if desired.
- Keep warm until ready to eat. Enjoy!
Notes
Author: Sarah Young
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I peel potatoes before making mashed potatoes?
Peeling the potatoes is recommended if you want smooth and creamy mashed potatoes. However, you can leave the skins on if you prefer a more rustic texture, especially when using thin-skinned potatoes such as Yukon Golds.
How do I make mashed potatoes creamy?
For creamy mashed potatoes, use plenty of butter and warm milk or cream. Avoid overmixing the potatoes, as this can make them sticky and gluey.
Why are my mashed potatoes gummy?
Gummy or gluey mashed potatoes are usually caused by overmixing. Using a food processor or blender can also break down too much starch. For the best texture, mash the potatoes gently with a potato masher or ricer.
Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! They are a great make-ahead side dish, especially for Thanksgiving and holiday dinners. Prepare them ahead of time and gently reheat them before serving.
How do I reheat mashed potatoes?
Reheat mashed potatoes gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat them in the microwave. Add a little warm milk, cream, or butter if they seem dry.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes! Regular whole milk works well for this recipe. You can also use half-and-half, heavy cream, or a combination of milk and cream depending on how rich and creamy you want them.
Can I add garlic to mashed potatoes?
Definitely! Garlic mashed potatoes are delicious. You can add roasted garlic, sautéed garlic, or garlic powder for extra flavor. Roasted garlic will give the potatoes a sweeter, more mellow garlic flavor.
Can I make mashed potatoes without butter?
Yes. You can substitute butter with olive oil, cream cheese, sour cream, or another dairy-free butter alternative. The flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
What can I add to mashed potatoes for extra flavor?
Try adding cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, roasted garlic, cream cheese, sour cream, chives, green onions, bacon, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.