Description
Get ready to enjoy the creamiest, dreamiest mashed potatoes—the ultimate comfort food! This easy recipe delivers perfectly fluffy, buttery potatoes every time, making it a star side dish for quick breakfasts, easy dinners, healthy snacks, and cozy holiday meals. With simple ingredients and customizable add-ins, you’ll have a go-to crowd-pleaser for every occasion. Great for dinner ideas, classic comfort food, and anyone searching for the best easy mashed potatoes recipe!
Ingredients
2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
1 1/2 teaspoons salt (plus more to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cloves garlic, optional
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional
Instructions
1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into even chunks.
2. Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon salt.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Drain the potatoes and return them to the hot pot. Allow to steam dry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the butter to the potatoes and begin mashing.
6. Gradually pour in the cream or milk, continuing to mash until smooth and creamy.
7. Season with remaining salt and pepper to taste. Stir in garlic and parsley if using.
8. Serve hot, with an extra pat of butter and a sprinkle of parsley on top.
Notes
For extra creamy mashed potatoes, use Yukon Gold potatoes and add a splash more cream if desired.
Don’t overmix or the potatoes may become gummy—mash just until smooth.
For a flavor twist, add roasted garlic or a dollop of cream cheese while mashing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side dish
- Method: Boiling, mashing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: quick breakfast, easy dinner, healthy snack, breakfast ideas, dinner ideas, easy recipe, food ideas, mashed potatoes