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These mashed potatoes are simply the best—a perfect blend of creamy, buttery, and comforting flavors! Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy family dinner, they pair beautifully with dishes like roasted turkey, cornbread dressing, and dinner rolls. And the best part? They’re versatile enough for both holiday feasts and quick weeknight dinners. Let’s get you started on creating the fluffiest, most flavorful mashed potatoes!
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Why You’ll Love These Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic for a reason, but this recipe takes them to a whole new level:
- Perfectly Creamy: Whole milk, butter, and optional cream cheese make these potatoes rich and smooth.
- Garlic-Infused Option: Add garlic for a hint of savory flavor that complements every bite.
- Easy to Make Ahead: Perfect for planning those big holiday meals in advance.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A side dish everyone loves, whether paired with Bacon-Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey or just as a comforting side on a quiet night.
Ingredients
- 4-5 pounds potatoes (Russets, Yukon Golds, or a mix for balance)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons table salt + 1 tablespoon for the water
- 4-6 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 cup whole milk, heated
- 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
- Fresh cracked black pepper, for garnish
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling
- Potato masher, ricer, or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large serving bowl
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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Best Mashed Potatoes
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and cut the potatoes in half or quarters, depending on their size. Place them in a large pot, add cold water until it’s an inch above the potatoes, and add a generous tablespoon of salt to the water. For extra flavor, add garlic.
2. Boil the Potatoes
Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender. Drain them thoroughly.
3. Heat the Milk
While the potatoes are draining, heat the milk in the microwave for about a minute. Warming it will help keep the potatoes creamy and smooth.
Need a Microwave! We Got You
4. Mash the Potatoes
Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Mash them by hand or with an electric mixer until they’re broken up. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the potatoes gummy.
5. Add Milk and Butter
Slowly add the warm milk, mixing as you go. Then add softened butter in small portions, mixing after each addition. For extra richness, add cream cheese if using.
6. Season and Serve
Taste and adjust salt if needed. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh parsley or chives and cracked black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy every creamy bite!
Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes
- Milk Alternatives: Substitute with half-and-half or cream for an even richer texture.
- Make-Ahead Option: To prepare in advance, follow the recipe up to the step of adding milk. Then refrigerate. When ready to serve, heat the potatoes and mix in butter just before serving.
- Storing Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven, stirring in a few spoonfuls of sour cream if needed.
What to Serve with Mashed Potatoes
These mashed potatoes are a versatile side dish and go well with:
- Southern Cornbread Dressing for a true Thanksgiving experience
- Bacon-Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey for an unforgettable main dish pairing
- The Best Lion House Dinner Rolls to complete the ultimate comfort meal
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze mashed potatoes?
Yes! To freeze, prepare the potatoes fully, then let them cool. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and flatten for easier storage. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F for 30 minutes. Stir in sour cream if they seem watery.
How can I make these even creamier?
Use heavy cream or half-and-half instead of milk for an indulgent twist. Adding cream cheese also ups the creaminess without overpowering the flavor.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk. Just be aware this may slightly change the flavor.
Final Thoughts
Creamy, dreamy, and downright comforting, these mashed potatoes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re bringing them to a Thanksgiving table or just craving a cozy side, they’re guaranteed to impress. Give them a try, and if you’re on Pinterest, I’d love for you to share your creations—tag me at EMMARECIPES18!
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Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 min
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These are the creamiest, fluffiest mashed potatoes you’ll ever make! With a balance of butter, warm milk, and an option to add cream cheese, these mashed potatoes have an incredibly rich texture that makes them a perfect addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family dinner. They’re also great for making ahead or freezing, so you can enjoy them whenever you want a comforting, delicious side dish.
Ingredients
- 4–5 pounds potatoes (Russets, Yukon Golds, or a mix)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons table salt + 1 tablespoon for boiling water
- 4–6 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed and softened (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
- Fresh cracked black pepper, for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Peel and cut potatoes in half or quarters, depending on size. Add them to a large pot with cold water about an inch above the potatoes, and add 1 tablespoon salt. For extra flavor, add garlic if desired.
- Boil the Potatoes: Bring water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes well.
- Warm the Milk: While the potatoes are draining, warm the milk in the microwave for about 1 minute.
- Mash the Potatoes: Return potatoes to the pot and mash with a potato masher or mixer until broken up (don’t over-mash to avoid gumminess).
- Add Milk and Butter: Slowly mix in the warm milk and softened butter, a little at a time. Add cream cheese if desired, mixing until creamy.
- Season and Serve: Adjust salt to taste, then garnish with parsley or chives and black pepper. Serve warm.
Notes
- Rich Texture: For even creamier potatoes, replace whole milk with half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Make Ahead: To make in advance, complete up to the milk step, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat and mix in butter.
- Freezing Tips: Freeze fully prepared potatoes by flattening them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight before reheating at 350°F.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: side-dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 250lcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg