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Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe

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4.3 from 6 reviews

This classic Best Mashed Potatoes recipe yields fluffy, creamy, and perfectly seasoned mashed potatoes using simple ingredients like russet potatoes, whole milk, and unsalted butter. The potatoes are boiled until tender, then whipped with butter and hot milk in a stand mixer for an irresistibly smooth texture. Garnished with fresh parsley or chives, these mashed potatoes make an ideal side dish for any meal.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings

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 (not melted)
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste, we used sea salt)
  • 1 Tbsp fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Boil Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and rinse them under cold water. If the potatoes are very large, cut them in half. For extra smooth mashed potatoes, remove any small knots with a spoon or peeler. Place the potatoes in a large pot (5-quart or bigger) and cover them completely with cold water. Bring the water to a boil, partially cover the pot, and cook the potatoes until they are easily pierced with a knife, about 20-25 minutes (our potatoes took 22 minutes). Be careful not to overcook.
  2. Drain and Begin Mashing: Drain the potatoes well and transfer them to the bowl of a stand mixer. Use the whisk attachment and first mash the potatoes lightly by hand to break them up. Then start the mixer on low speed for 30 seconds, gradually increasing to medium speed while slowly drizzling in 1 to 1 1/4 cups of the hot milk until you reach your preferred texture.
  3. Add Butter and Season: With the mixer running, add the softened butter one tablespoon at a time, waiting a few seconds between each addition. This process whips the potatoes into a fluffy, creamy consistency. Finally, stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt or adjust to your taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Notes

  • Use whole milk for a richer flavor, but you may substitute with lower fat milk or cream for different textures.
  • Do not overcook the potatoes, as they can become waterlogged and gummy.
  • Removing little knots from potatoes helps achieve smoother mashed potatoes.
  • Butter should be at room temperature for smooth incorporation without clumps.
  • Optional garnish adds a fresh color and mild onion flavor.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Boiling and Mixing
  • Cuisine: American