Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe: Comfort Food Done Right

Article Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the allure of mashed potatoes. This classic dish has been a family favorite for generations, and I have countless memories associated with it. Growing up, every holiday was brightened by my grandmother’s creamy mashed potatoes, which always stole the show. As I stand in my kitchen now, the warmth and creativity that I’ve nurtured into my culinary journey are poured into this recipe. Join me as we explore the best mashed potatoes recipe that combines comfort with a dash of innovation, ensuring that every bite evokes those cherished moments.

Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe: Comfort Food Done Right

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• Author: r-maamouzgmail-com
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Discover the best mashed potatoes recipe with simple ingredients for creamy, flavorful perfection that everyone loves.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into large cubes
• 1 stick + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 7 cloves garlic, smashed with the back of a knife
• 3/4 cup warm heavy cream
• 3/4 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

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Instructions

1. Begin by peeling and cutting the potatoes into large cubes.
2. Season boiling water generously with salt.
3. Melt 1 stick of butter over low heat and infuse it with smashed garlic cloves.
4. Cook garlic for 15 minutes, then remove.
5. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 20 minutes), then drain.
6. Pass the hot potatoes through a ricer into the pot.
7. Add the melted butter and season liberally with salt.
8. Mix with a handheld mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until fluffy.
9. Incorporate sour cream gently until combined.
10. Drizzle remaining melted butter over the top and garnish with paprika and fresh parsley.

Notes

For creamier mashed potatoes, incorporate more butter and warm cream. Avoid overmixing to maintain a light texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Boiling & Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: mashed potatoes, comfort food, side dish, creamy potatoes, holiday recipe

BEST Mashed Potatoes Recipe

PART 1: Getting Started with Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are more than just a side dish; they embody warmth and nostalgia. Growing up, I remember sneaking into the kitchen while my mom prepared Sunday dinners, her laughter intertwining with the sounds of the boiling potatoes. The smell of buttery goodness wafting through the air made my stomach rumble with anticipation. Throughout my culinary journey, I’ve discovered that the best mashed potatoes recipe is all about the right balance of ingredients and techniques. Let’s dive into why russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are the perfect choice for this dish.

Using russet or Yukon Gold potatoes gives your mashed potatoes that ideal creamy texture that everyone loves. They absorb flavors beautifully and yield a light, fluffy consistency when mashed. Adding a hint of garlic takes it to the next level, creating a dish that is not only comforting but also irresistibly flavorful. You’ll find that each ingredient contributes to the dish’s overall harmony. This mashed potatoes recipe is simple, yet it’s nuanced enough to elevate your dinner gatherings. Whether you’re serving it during a festive occasion or on a quiet weeknight, the right mashed potatoes will always steal the spotlight.

PART 2: Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare the best mashed potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

• 3 pounds of russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into large cubes
• 1 stick + 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, divided
• 7 cloves of garlic, smashed with the back of a knife
• 3/4 cup warm heavy cream
• 3/4 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

These simple ingredients come together to create an unforgettable dish. Let’s go through how to properly prepare these elements for the best flavor and texture.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

Selecting the right potato variety is crucial for achieving the best results. Russet potatoes are high in starch and yield a fluffy texture when mashed, while Yukon Gold potatoes bring a buttery flavor and creamy finish. Blending these two varieties could give your mashed potatoes the ideal consistency and taste.

Essential Preparations

Begin by peeling and cutting your potatoes into large cubes. This helps them cook evenly, promoting a consistent texture. Don’t forget to season your boiling water generously with salt, as this is one key step that often gets overlooked in many mashed potatoes recipes. As the potatoes cook, their starches will absorb the salt, enhancing the overall flavor.

PART 3: Cooking and Mashing the Potatoes

To start, melt 1 stick of butter over low heat in a small saucepan. Keep it warm while the milk solids rise to the top and then remove them by skimming off the surface. Then, add the smashed garlic cloves to infuse their flavor into the butter. This aromatic step creates a deep, savory quality that makes the mashed potatoes extra special. Cook the garlic on low for 15 minutes, and then remove and discard it, allowing your butter to remain warm over low heat.

While the garlic infuses, place your cubed potatoes in a medium pot and fill it with water, ensuring all potatoes are covered. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer until fork-tender, which usually takes about 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes thoroughly, allowing them a few minutes to dry in the colander. Moisture is the enemy of perfect mashed potatoes, so be diligent in this step.

Using a ricer, pass the hot potatoes back into the same pot where they cooked. This prevents any lumps and grants that velvety smooth texture everyone craves. Next, pour in the warm melted butter and season liberally with salt. Blend the mixture with a handheld mixer on medium speed until combined, only about 2-3 minutes. Remember, don’t overmix; the goal is light and fluffy, not gummy! Then, add your sour cream and mix gently to combine.

PART 4: Final Touches and Serving Suggestions

To transform your mashed potatoes into a centerpiece, drizzle the remaining two tablespoons of melted butter over the top. A sprinkle of paprika adds a pop of color and a hint of flavor. Finishing with fresh chopped parsley provides both freshness and aesthetic appeal.

These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with various main dishes. Serve them alongside roasted meats, grilled steaks, or even a vegetarian main like mushroom shepherd’s pie. The creamy texture complements rich flavors brilliantly, balancing heartiness with comforting silkiness.

Incorporating herbs like chives or rosemary can offer an additional layer of depth to your dish. Consider serving them with a rich gravy for that classic comfort-food experience, or enjoy them plain—either way, they’ll be a hit!

FAQs

1. What type of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?
   Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their fluffy texture and creamy flavor.

2. Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare them ahead and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a little extra cream if needed.

3. How can I make my mashed potatoes creamier?
   Incorporate more butter and warm cream, and avoid overmixing to maintain a light texture.

4. What can I add to mashed potatoes for more flavor?
   Consider inverting garlic, herbs, cheese, or even bacon bits for a delicious twist.

Conclusion

This best mashed potatoes recipe encapsulates the comfort of home cooking, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation. Whether served every Sunday or as a holiday centerpiece, these mashed potatoes have the power to evoke cherished memories and create new ones.