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A close-up of creamy mashed potatoes topped with melted butter, chives, and black pepper.

Ultimate Mashed Potatoes

This recipe guides beginners through making fluffy, airy mashed potatoes. It includes tips on ingredient selection, preparation, and optional garnishes for a delicious comfort food side dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Make-ahead 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 415

Ingredients
  

To Boil the Potatoes
  • 2 pounds yellow potatoes also called Butter or Yukon Gold potatoes
  • 1 Tablespoon Kosher salt adjust based on salt type
To Mash the Potatoes
  • 2 ounces unsalted butter high-quality, e.g., Kerrygold or Vermont Creamery
  • ½ cup half and half
  • ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher salt adjust based on salt type
To Garnish the Potatoes
  • 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter melted
  • 2 teaspoons fresh chopped chives
  • Pinch fresh cracked black pepper
  • Pinch flaky sea salt e.g., Maldon Salt or Jacobsen Sea Salt

Equipment

  • Pot or large saucepan
  • Potato Masher
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

  1. Peel the potatoes if desired. Cut potatoes into evenly sized pieces, about 2.5 inches. Place potato pieces in a pot and cover with cold water (about 6-8 cups). You can cook them immediately or cover and set aside for a few hours.
  2. Add 1 Tablespoon of Kosher salt to the water. Cover the pot and place over medium to medium-high heat. Cook until the water reaches a low boil, about 25-30 minutes. Test for doneness by piercing potatoes with a fork; if the fork slides easily, they are done. Drain the potatoes and return the empty pot to the stove.
  3. Return the empty pot to the stove over low heat. Add butter, half and half, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined and bring to a low simmer, then turn off the heat. Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Mash the potatoes using your preferred method, being careful not to over-process. Gently fold everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Spoon the mashed potatoes into a serving bowl. Drizzle with melted butter and garnish with fresh chives, black pepper, and flaky sea salt. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 415kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 5.5gFat: 19gCholesterol: 39.6mgSodium: 2832mgSugar: 2.2g

Notes

Adjust salt amounts based on the type of salt you use. For a richer or runnier texture, add more butter and half-and-half. For a silky smooth texture, consider using a potato ricer or food mill. Mix-ins like chicken stock, cream cheese, sour cream, roasted garlic, fresh herbs, or cheese can be added for extra flavor. Leftover mashed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-6 days and reheated gently on the stove or in a slow cooker.

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