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Creamy Mashed Potatoes

The ultimate comfort food side dish. These mashed potatoes are incredibly smooth, buttery, and flavored to perfection. Perfect for any meal, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Servings
6
Difficulty Easy
Creamy mashed potatoes in a bowl
Family Favorite

Cuisine

American

Course

Side Dish

Diet

Vegetarian

Calories

215 per serving

Ingredients

Instructions

1

Prepare the Potatoes

Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.

2

Cook Until Tender

Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender. They should break apart easily when pierced with a fork.

3

Drain Thoroughly

Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them steam for 2-3 minutes. This helps remove excess moisture for fluffier mashed potatoes.

4

Mash the Potatoes

Return potatoes to the pot. Use a potato masher or ricer to mash until smooth. For the creamiest texture, use a ricer.

5

Add Butter and Cream

Add the butter and mix until melted. Gradually stir in the warmed heavy cream, mixing until smooth and creamy.

6

Finish with Sour Cream

Fold in the sour cream for extra tanginess and richness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7

Serve and Garnish

Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh chives if desired. Serve hot with an extra pat of butter on top.

Chef's Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Choose the Right Potato: Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for creamy mashed potatoes. They have a naturally buttery flavor and smooth texture.

Don't Over-Mix: Over-mixing can make potatoes gluey. Mix just until smooth and combined.

Warm Your Liquids: Cold cream can make your mashed potatoes lumpy. Always warm the cream before adding.

Make Ahead: Keep mashed potatoes warm in a slow cooker on low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a bit more cream if needed.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 6 servings)

Calories 215
Total Fat 12g
Saturated Fat 7g
Cholesterol 35mg
Sodium 485mg
Carbohydrates 28g
Fiber 3g
Protein 4g

Delicious Variations

Try these exciting twists on the classic recipe

Garlic mashed potatoes

Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

Add 4 roasted garlic cloves and 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme.

Loaded mashed potatoes

Loaded Mashed Potatoes

Top with crispy cooked vegetables, shredded cheese, and green onions for a hearty version.

Wasabi mashed potatoes

Horseradish Mashed Potatoes

Mix in 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish for a zesty kick that pairs perfectly with roasted meats.

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Storage

Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through.

Freezing

Mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Perfect Pairings

Main dishes that complement these mashed potatoes beautifully

Roasted chicken

Roasted Chicken

Classic pairing that never disappoints

Beef roast

Pot Roast

Perfect for soaking up delicious gravy

Salmon

Grilled Salmon

Light and elegant combination