Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Dec 08, 2023
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Let us show you how easy it is to make Homemade Mashed Potatoes! We promise, It’s worth the effort. Plus, they are on the table in less than 30 minutes!
These homemade mashed potato recipe results in a creamy, buttery and rich mashed potato that is easy to make and fool proof. Not to mention, there’s never any leftovers, so you may want to adjust the recipe card when you print it out!
For whatever reason, we are embarrassed to say it, but this is our first mashed potato recipe! Can you even believe it? These mashed potatoes are the first thing to go whenever they are out on the table or buffet. In fact, they are also the most requested recipe at the holiday tables.
Related: Potato Candy Recipe
How To Select, Store & Serve
Read more on how to select, store and serve potatoes and sweet potatoes!
How Long Should You Boil Potatoes Before Mashing?
Smaller potatoes (like reds or golds) will cook faster: typically about 15-20 minutes. Larger potatoes like russet potatoes take about 20-30 minutes. You will want to ensure that your heat is set to medium-high.
Do You Peel Mashed Potatoes Before Boiling?
It just depends on your preference. You can leave the skin on or peel them. We like to see the pieces of the skin throughout the mashed potato because it looks more rustic. And we love to eliminate any food waste in the kitchen.
How To Boil Mashed Potatoes
First, place salt and potatoes in a large pot. Then, add in water to cover the potatoes (approximately just over an 1″). Turn the heat to medium high and allow to boil for 20-30 minutes or until fork tender. Finally, remove them from the heat and drain.
Recipe Tip
To speed up the cooking process of the potatoes, cut them into 1″ chunks. This will allow the potatoes to cook evenly and quicker.
Why Add Butter Before Milk in Mashed Potatoes?
Butter before milk, always! Always add the butter before milk so that the fat coats the starch molecules. Then add the milk to make them creamy. If you add the milk first, chances are you are going to end up with a thick, gluey texture to your potatoes.
What Potato Makes the Best Mashed Potatoes?
Russet potatoes! Yukon golds are another great options since they have more of a buttery type of texture.
Ingredients for Easy Homemade Mashed Potatoes
- Russet potatoes
- Butter
- Milk
- Salt & pepper
How to Make Mashed Potatoes
Start by peeling and quartering the potatoes.
Place in a large pot with cold water ensuring the potatoes are covered with about an 1″ of water. Boil for about 20-25 minutes over medium high heat or until fork tender. Drain the potatoes.
Place softened butter, milk, salt and pepper in a bowl or the same pot and mash together until you get the consistency like you like.
We like to serve our topped with melted butter, but that is totally optional! You can also top with other favorite toppings like bacon or chives.
More Delicious Potato Recipes to Try
- Crispy Potato Tacos – quick and easy way to switch up Taco night!
- Loaded Potato Skins – you can never go wrong with potato skins while watching the game.
- Twice Baked Potato Casserole – this will become your families favorite side dish!
Homemade Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 6-8 large russet potatoes peeled and quartered
- 1/3 c milk
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Start by peeling and quartering the potatoes.
- Place in a large pot with cold water ensuring the potatoes are covered with about an 1″ of water. Boil for about 20-25 minutes over medium high heat until fork tender. Drain the potatoes.
- Place softened butter, milk, salt and pepper in a bowl or the same pot and mash together until you get the consistency like you like.
- I like to serve mine topped with melted butter, but that is totally optional!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
