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Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe

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4.1 from 4 reviews

This creamy mashed potato recipe delivers perfectly soft, buttery potatoes ideal for a comforting side dish. Using simple ingredients like quality potatoes, butter, and milk, it offers a smooth, velvety texture without the risk of gluey mash by gently mashing by hand or with a mixer on low speed. Perfect for everyday meals or special occasions, it includes tips for keeping the mash warm and making it ahead.

Ingredients

Potatoes

  • 1.5 kg (3 lb) potatoes, peeled and cut into 2.5 cm (1 inch) cubes (preferably Sebago, Russet, or Maris Piper)

For Cooking

  • 1 tbsp salt (for cooking potatoes)

Flavourings & Finishing

  • 60 g (4 tbsp) unsalted butter, chopped
  • 1/2 cup milk, preferably warmed
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Extra melted butter, for drizzling
  • Chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Pour in enough water to cover the potatoes by about 10 cm (4 inches).
  2. Cook Potatoes: Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to maintain a rapid simmer. Cook the potatoes for approximately 15 minutes, or until they are very soft and can easily fall apart when pierced with a fork.
  3. Drain and Dry: Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Leave them for 1 minute, shaking the pot occasionally to encourage evaporation of any remaining water.
  4. Add Flavourings and Mash: Add the chopped butter, warmed milk, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the potatoes. Mash them well, adjusting the milk quantity to achieve a looser consistency if desired.
  5. Mash with Care: Avoid using beaters, stick blenders, food processors, or full-on blenders as these can make the mash gluey. You may pulse gently with a stand or handheld mixer, but stop as soon as the mash is creamy.
  6. Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl, create swirls on the surface, drizzle extra melted butter over the top, and sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley before serving.
  7. Keep Warm for Short Periods: If serving within 30 minutes, cover the bowl tightly with cling wrap and keep it in a warm place like near the stove. Stir gently before serving.
  8. Keep Warm for up to 2 Hours: Place the bowl over a pot of boiling hot water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Keep the water hot by turning on the stove as needed.
  9. Keep Warm for up to 4 Hours: Press baking or parchment paper onto the potato surface, cover the bowl tightly with foil, and keep in a slow cooker on the WARM setting (not exceeding 60°C/140°F).
  10. Make Ahead: For making mashed potatoes a day ahead, use a special restaurant trick as referenced for make-ahead mashed potatoes.

Notes

  • Use starchy potatoes such as Sebago, Russet, or Maris Piper for the best creamy texture.
  • Warm the milk before adding to ensure the mashed potatoes stay hot and creamy.
  • Do not overmix the potatoes using electric mixers to avoid a gluey texture.
  • Butter enhances flavor but can be adjusted based on dietary preferences.
  • Fresh herbs like chives or parsley add a bright, fresh finish.
  • Follow specific warming instructions to keep mash fresh and avoid drying out before serving.