Print

Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 6 reviews

This classic recipe for the best mashed potatoes delivers creamy, fluffy, and perfectly seasoned potatoes, ideal as a comforting side dish for any meal. Made with tender russet potatoes, rich butter, and warm milk, it’s a simple and timeless preparation that yields smooth and flavorful results every time.

Ingredients

Potatoes

  • 4 lbs russet potatoes (about 12 medium), peeled

Other Ingredients

  • 1 to 1 1/4 cups hot whole milk
  • 16 Tbsp unsalted butter (2 sticks), at room temperature
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt (sea salt recommended, or to taste)
  • 1 Tbsp fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and rinse them under cold water. If the potatoes are very large, cut them in half. For an extra smooth texture, remove any small knots or blemishes using a small spoon or the tip of a potato peeler. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
  2. Boil Potatoes: Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to maintain a steady boil and cook the potatoes partially covered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a knife. Avoid overcooking to prevent waterlogged potatoes. Drain the potatoes well after cooking.
  3. Mash Potatoes Lightly: Transfer the drained potatoes to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Lightly mash the potatoes by hand first to break them up, then start the mixer on low speed for about 30 seconds to begin smoothing them out.
  4. Add Milk: Gradually increase the mixer speed to medium and slowly drizzle in 1 to 1 1/4 cups of the hot milk. Continue mixing until the potatoes reach your desired creamy consistency.
  5. Incorporate Butter and Season: With the mixer running, add the softened butter 1 tablespoon at a time, waiting a few seconds between each addition to ensure it fully incorporates and makes the potatoes light and fluffy. Finally, add 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, adjusting to taste.
  6. Optional Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the mashed potatoes before serving for a fresh and colorful touch.

Notes

  • Use russet potatoes for fluffy and creamy mashed potatoes.
  • Keep the milk hot before adding to ensure smooth texture.
  • Do not over-boil the potatoes to avoid watery mashed potatoes.
  • Softened butter (not melted) helps achieve a fluffy texture.
  • Using a mixer creates very smooth mashed potatoes, but you can mash by hand for a chunkier texture.
  • Adjust salt according to preference and dietary needs.