
This mashed potatoes recipe is the ultimate side dish, perfect for any meal. Made with simple mashed potatoes ingredients like russet potatoes, butter, and milk, it delivers the creamiest texture. Whether you need a mashed potatoes recipe easy enough for a weeknight or elegant enough for a holiday, this foolproof method ensures light, fluffy, and buttery mashed potatoes every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfectly creamy and fluffy with a buttery finish Simple, foolproof method using only a few ingredients Make-ahead friendly for stress-free holiday cooking Pairs well with your favorite mains like Roast Turkey, Prime Rib, or Meatloaf
This mashed potatoes recipe is a must-have for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy family dinner. Ready to make the best mashed potatoes ever? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for the Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe
It’s incredible how a handful of ingredients can create something so flavorful! Here’s what you need:
- 4 lbs russet potatoes (or Yukon Golds for a buttery flavor)
- 1 1/4 cups hot whole milk (for the creamiest texture)
- 16 tbsp unsalted butter (softened, not melted)
- 1 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste) Fresh parsley or chives (optional garnish for a pop of color)
Pro Tip: Always use unsalted butter to control the seasoning better.

How to Make Mashed Potatoes
Boil the Potatoes
Peel and rinse the russet potatoes. If they’re large, cut them in half for even cooking. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender (about 20-25 minutes). Drain well to prevent watery mashed potatoes.
Whip Them to Perfection
Transfer hot potatoes to a mixing bowl or stand mixer. Lightly mash by hand before whipping. Using a whisk attachment, whip on low speed while slowly drizzling in hot milk. Increase speed to medium and gradually add softened butter, 1 tablespoon at a time. Finally, mix in salt to taste.

Serve and Enjoy!
Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes into a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Serve warm with gravy or melted butter on top.
Pro Tip: Don’t overmix, or the potatoes may turn gummy!
What to Serve with Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes pair well with so many dishes! Here are some favorites:
Meats: Prime Rib, Roast Turkey, Meatloaf, Chicken Fricassee Gravy: Classic Turkey Gravy or Easy Mushroom Gravy Veggies: Roasted Cauliflower, Sautéed Mushrooms, Green Beans

FAQs
The best mashed potatoes start with the right potato variety. Here’s a breakdown:
Russet Potatoes: High starch, fluffy, and creamy (best choice!)
Yukon Gold Potatoes: Slightly buttery and naturally creamy
Red Potatoes: Waxy, great for chunkier mashed potatoes
Absolutely! Make-ahead mashed potatoes save time on busy holidays.
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of milk and butter. Slow Cooker: Keep on warm setting for several hours.
f your mashed potatoes are sticky or gummy, here’s why:
. Over-mixing Too much beating releases starch, making them gluey.
. Using a food processor Breaks down starch too much.
. Overcooking the potatoes Makes them waterlogged.
For perfect texture, use a potato masher or whisk attachment, and mash while hot!
Yes! Here are some swaps you can make:
Milk Substitutes: Half-and-half, heavy cream, almond milk, oat milk Butter Options: Salted butter (adjust added salt), plant-based butter
Pro Tip: For extra richness, try adding sour cream or cream cheese!
Want to take your mashed potatoes to the next level? Try these add-ins:
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add roasted garlic for a deep, savory taste. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in Parmesan, cheddar, or cream cheese. Herb Mashed Potatoes: Mix in fresh thyme, chives, or rosemary.

Related Recipes You’ll Love
TThis mashed potatoes recipe is the perfect balance of creamy, fluffy, and buttery goodness. With just a few simple mashed potatoes ingredients, you can create a dish that’s easy to make and ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a mashed potatoes recipe easy enough for weeknights or special enough for holidays, this foolproof method guarantees delicious results every time.This mashed potatoes recipe is simple, creamy, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a weeknight meal, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.


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What’s your favorite mashed potato topping? Let me know in the comments

BEST Mashed Potatoes Recipe – So Creamy & Easy!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This mashed potatoes recipe is the ultimate side dish, perfect for any meal. Made with simple ingredients like russet potatoes, butter, and milk, it delivers the creamiest texture. Whether for a weeknight or a holiday, this foolproof method ensures light, fluffy, and buttery mashed potatoes every time.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs russet potatoes (or Yukon Golds for a buttery flavor)
- 1 1/4 cups hot whole milk (for the creamiest texture)
- 16 tbsp unsalted butter (softened, not melted)
- 1 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Fresh parsley or chives (optional garnish for a pop of color)
Instructions
- Peel and rinse the russet potatoes.
- If they’re large, cut them in half for even cooking.
- Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water.
- Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender (about 20-25 minutes).
- Drain well to prevent watery mashed potatoes.
- Transfer hot potatoes to a mixing bowl or stand mixer.
- Lightly mash by hand before whipping.
- Using a whisk attachment, whip on low speed while slowly drizzling in hot milk.
- Increase speed to medium and gradually add softened butter, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Finally, mix in salt to taste.
- Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes into a serving dish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
- Serve warm with gravy or melted butter on top.
Notes
Pro Tip: Don’t overmix, or the potatoes may turn gummy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling & Whipping
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, easy mashed potatoes, holiday side dish