Description
The Best Classic Mashed Potato is rich, fluffy, buttery, and perfect for holidays or cozy family dinners. Made with tender Russet potatoes, warm milk, cream, and plenty of butter, this comforting side dish comes together with simple ingredients and classic flavor.
Ingredients
5 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1 cup unsalted butter
1 1/4 cups whole milk, warmed
1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more for the water
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons chopped chives, optional for garnish
Extra butter for serving, optional
Instructions
1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and salt the water generously.
2. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender.
3. Drain the potatoes well, then return them to the hot pot over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes to remove excess moisture.
4. In a small saucepan, warm the butter, milk, and heavy cream over low heat until fully heated but not boiling.
5. Mash the potatoes until smooth using a potato masher or ricer.
6. Gradually stir the warm butter mixture into the potatoes. Add kosher salt, black pepper, and sour cream, then mix gently until creamy.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Transfer to a serving bowl, top with extra butter and chives if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Warm the milk, cream, and butter before adding them so the potatoes stay hot and absorb the liquid more smoothly.
Do not overmix the potatoes or they can turn gluey. Mash only until smooth and creamy.
After draining, let the potatoes dry in the hot pot for a minute or two to prevent watery mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 62mg
Keywords: classic mashed potatoes, buttery mashed potatoes, holiday side dish, potato side dish