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    Home » Recipes » Christmas » Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe

    Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe

    Published: Nov 26, 2023 Modified: Nov 26, 2023 by Isabel Laessig

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    My Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a classic comfort food that elevates every meal! Rich, velvety, and buttery, they are just heavenly. Making the perfect mashed potatoes is an art form, and by following my guide, you’ll perfect every step! Ready in just 45 minutes using simple ingredients and instructions.

    creamy mashed potatoes piled high in a white dish with a spoon and chives
    Jump to:
    • Creamy Mashed Potatoes
    • Best Creamy Mashed Potatoes Ingredients
    • How to Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes
    • How to Make Mashed Potatoes Creamy
    • Creamy Mashed Potatoes Variations
    • How Long to Boil Potatoes for Mashed Potatoes
    • Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes
    • Best Potatoes for Mashed Potatoes
    • Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes Instructions
    • Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
    • Storing Mashed Potatoes
    • Reheating Mashed Potatoes
    • What to Serve with Mashed Potatoes
    • 📌 Pin it for later!
    • 📋 Recipe
    • 💬 Reviews

    Creamy Mashed Potatoes

    My family is crazy about these mashed potatoes, and requests them for Sunday Supper over and over! They hold a special place at our dinner table and are just as important to get right as the main dish.

    Now and then I like to mix it up for them, which means testing new ways to make mashed potatoes… and let me tell you, this is the best mashed potatoes recipe ever: it’s so easy!

    My buttery mashed potatoes are so smooth. They make great leftovers and are just waiting for all your favorite add-ins, like chives or green onions on top. It’s the ultimate comfort food!

    I tried this paired w/ a crockpot chicken & gravy recipe and it was goooood! I’d definitely make this again 👍

    Katie on Pinterest
    Mashed potatoes with chives in a white bowl

    I tried it! It was delicious and will definitely be making again!

    Mariam on Pinterest

    Best Creamy Mashed Potatoes Ingredients

    • potatoes, cut into small chunks
    • butter
    • salt
    • whole milk
    • Salt & pepper for seasoning
    • Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish, optional
    • Additional melted butter for flavor, optional
    dry-stirring mashed potatoes

    How to Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes

    1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 5 Tablespoons of salt, then bring it back to a boil.
      water in a large pot next to chopped potatoes and a bowl of salt
    2. Add diced potatoes to the water. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook for 20 to 25 minutes until fork-tender, but not mushy. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.
      Adding potatoes to a pot of boiling water
    3. Drain the water from the pot when the potatoes are ready.
      potatoes boiling
    4. Using a hand mixer on low, whip the potatoes until they are crumbly.
      Mixing mashed potatoes with a hand mixer
    5. Once crumbly, add half a stick of chopped butter and continue to mix until fully incorporated and the potatoes are creamy. While continuing to whip the potatoes, slowly pour in milk and season with salt and pepper.
      Adding butter to potatoes in a pot
    6. Add in additional melted butter for taste, if desired. Give it a final mix with a spoon, then serve!

    Tip: You can also use a potato ricer to mash potatoes. This gives a delectably smooth and creamy texture I guarantee you will love.

    How to Make Mashed Potatoes Creamy

    The number one key to making creamy mashed potatoes is adding the milk and butter at the right time, and carefully mixing them in. Follow these tips for the creamiest potatoes:

    • Slowly add milk while mixing, so it doesn’t spatter everywhere.
    • To prevent gummy mashed potatoes, avoid over-mixing or under-mixing your potatoes, and don’t use a hard boil to cook them. Boil the water, then lower the heat to a simmer, for best results.
    • Extra butter mixed in after mashing makes these creamy potatoes even creamier, or top it all off with garlic butter sauce for an unbelievable flavor combination!
    • Stir your potatoes after draining them, before adding your butter and milk. This will remove any excess water from the potatoes. You want to always make sure to mash the potatoes first, then add the dairy to mix through. This gives you the creamiest potatoes.
    • Heat your milk before adding it to your potatoes.

    Creamy Mashed Potatoes Variations

    There are so many ways to elevate this amazingly smooth potato recipe. Here are some of my favorite add-ins:

    • Cream cheese
    • Cheddar cheese
    • Sour cream
    • Fresh herbs
    • Top them off with crumbled bacon, it’s amazing!

    How Long to Boil Potatoes for Mashed Potatoes

    You will need to boil the potatoes for 20-25 minutes for potatoes perfect to make the creamiest mashed potatoes. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer after adding the potatoes.

    Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes

    The best part about this recipe for mashed potatoes is how easy it is to make them ahead of time. For the holidays, there’s nothing like having your side dishes ready to go before the big event. It saves so much time and stress to have these potatoes ready to pop in the oven before any guests arrive!

    1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
    2. Add mashed potatoes to a casserole dish if they are not already in one.
    3. Whisk 1 egg. Brush the egg over the top of the mashed potatoes.
    4. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is slightly toasted.
    5. Serve and enjoy the best make-ahead mashed potatoes ever!

    To make mashed potatoes in the Instant Pot, follow the instructions for my Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes recipe.

    Best Potatoes for Mashed Potatoes

    The best potato for mashing is Yukon Gold potatoes or Russet potatoes for how dense but smooth and flavorful they both are. Waxy potatoes and starchy potatoes always work best.

    creamy mashed potatoes piled high in a white dish

    Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes Instructions

    To make dairy-free mashed potatoes (which also makes them vegan), use vegan butter and reserved cooking water from boiling the potatoes instead of milk.

    When boiling the potatoes, reserve 2 cups of the cooking liquid before draining. You can use cooking water as a substitute for milk.

    Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs

    Do you peel potatoes before boiling mashed potatoes?

    For best results in making mashed potatoes, peel and chop the potatoes into evenly sized pieces before boiling them. This ensures all parts of the potato cook evenly and mash smoothly.

    Are mashed potatoes better with milk or cream?

    Cream is heavier and has a higher fat content than milk, and will generally weigh down the potatoes when paired with butter. This makes milk the best choice for making mashed potatoes, not heavy cream.

    Can you prep potatoes ahead of time for mashed potatoes?

    You can prep potatoes ahead of time for mashed potatoes by peeling, chopping, and fully submerging them in a bowl of water to store in the refrigerator overnight. Do not store them this way for more than a day!

    How do you keep mashed potatoes warm?

    To keep mashed potatoes warm, add them to the slow cooker on the warm setting. This is a great trick whenever you’re hosting a holiday dinner.

    How long can you keep mashed potatoes in the fridge?

    Mashed potatoes can be stored for 3-5 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

    Can you freeze mashed potatoes?

    To freeze mashed potatoes, allow them to cool, then store in a freezer-safe container, freezer bags, or a casserole dish tightly wrapped with foil. Label with the freezing date.

    Storing Mashed Potatoes

    1. Cool Down: Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature after you’ve made them.
    2. Transfer: Transfer the mashed potatoes into an airtight container. Ensure that there is some space at the top of the container to accommodate any expansion as the potatoes freeze or chill.
    3. Seal: Seal the container tightly to prevent air from getting in. You can also cover the surface of the mashed potatoes with plastic wrap or parchment paper to create a barrier that helps prevent moisture loss and the formation of a skin.
    4. Label and Date: Label the container with the date so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
    5. Refrigerate or Freeze: You have two options for storing mashed potatoes:
      • Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
      • Freezing: If you want to store them for a longer period, place them in the freezer. Mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

    Reheating Mashed Potatoes

    1. From the Refrigerator:
      • Scoop out the desired amount of mashed potatoes into a microwave-safe bowl.
      • Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
      • Heat in the microwave at medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave, so check for desired temperature.
      • Alternatively, you can reheat them in a saucepan on the stovetop. Heat on low-medium heat, stirring frequently until they are hot.
    2. From the Freezer:
      • Remove the mashed potatoes from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
      • Once thawed, follow the same reheating instructions as above for mashed potatoes from the refrigerator.
    3. For a Creamier Texture: To maintain or restore a creamy texture, you can add a little extra milk or cream while reheating and stir until the desired consistency is achieved. Be sure to taste and adjust for seasoning, as frozen or refrigerated mashed potatoes may require additional salt and pepper.

    What to Serve with Mashed Potatoes

    • Pork Chop recipes
    • Salisbury Steak
    • Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe
    • Boneless Prime Rib Roast
    • Beef Chuck Roast

    This recipe makes a great side dish for the holidays. Pair it with my other Side Dishes for Ham, Side Dishes for Prime Rib, or Christmas Side Dishes, like my Candied Yams!

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    creamy mashed potatoes on a plate with prime rib

    📋 Recipe

    creamy mashed potatoes piled high in a white dish

    Creamy Mashed Potatoes

    Isabel Laessig
    Follow my guide on How to Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes for the best creamy mashed potatoes recipe you can make in 5 easy steps!
    4.86 from 21 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 minutes mins
    Cook Time 30 minutes mins
    Total Time 45 minutes mins
    Course Side Dishes
    Cuisine American
    Servings 6 servings
    Calories 263 kcal

    Equipment

    • Large pot to boil water
    • A mixer (a hand mixer works well)
    • A large spoon
    • Mixing Bowl

    Ingredients
      

    • 2.5 lbs. potatoes cut into small chunks
    • ½ stick butter
    • 5 Tbsp. salt
    • 2 cups whole milk
    • Salt & pepper for seasoning
    • Chopped green onions for garnish optional
    • Additional melted butter for flavor optional
    Cooking Conversions

    See our Cooking Conversions Chart for help converting measurements!

    Instructions
     

    • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 5 Tablespoons of salt, then bring it back to a boil.
      5 Tbsp. salt
    • Add diced potatoes to the water. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook for 20 to 25 minutes until fork-tender, but not mushy. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.
      2.5 lbs. potatoes
    • Drain the water from the pot when the potatoes are ready.
    • Using a hand mixer on low, whip the potatoes until they are crumbly.
    • Once crumbly, add half a stick of chopped butter and continue to mix until fully incorporated and the potatoes are creamy. While continuing to whip the potatoes, slowly pour in milk and season with salt and pepper.
      ½ stick butter, 2 cups whole milk, Salt & pepper for seasoning
    • Add in additional melted butter for taste and topped with chopped green onions, if desired. Give it a final mix with a spoon, then serve!
      Chopped green onions for garnish, Additional melted butter for flavor

    Video

    Notes

    • THE KEY TO CREAMY POTATOES: The key to creamy mashed potatoes is in the technique. Starting with the boiled potatoes and whipping them until fluffy, then slowly adding butter and milk, makes the creamiest potatoes.
    • IN THE OVEN: For a make-ahead mashed potatoes recipe you can prepare in the oven, follow the directions above. Whisk an egg and brush it on top before baking. Bake at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes, or until the top is slightly toasted.
    • You can use a hand mixer to make these mashed potatoes, but for the ultimate experience, pass the potatoes through a potato ricer!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1servingCalories: 263kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 28mgSodium: 4887mgPotassium: 903mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 367IUVitamin C: 37mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 2mg
    Keyword best creamy mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes recipe, how to make creamy mashed potatoes
    Did you try this recipe?Tag #SundaySupper on social and leave a comment below!
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    Isabel, AKA Family Foodie

    About Isabel Laessig

    Hi! I’m Isabel Laessig, also known as Family Foodie, creator of Sunday Supper Movement and author of the Boujee Steak Cookbook. Sunday Supper is my mission to bring family back around the dinner table. Join me in making family meal-time a tradition to celebrate!

    » About Me

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. George says

      October 24, 2021 at 10:51 pm

      We made it tonight and WOW! The flavor from the herbs and butter totally changes the way I’ve tasted mashed potatoes. Definitely making these for thanksgiving! Thanks for the recipe.

      Reply
      • Em Beitel says

        October 25, 2021 at 12:39 pm

        That is so awesome, George! Thank you so much for your comment!

        Reply
    2. Katie says

      December 21, 2021 at 9:47 pm

      For making ahead, do you follow the stove top directions all the way through ? Then refrigerate and bake when ready to preheat?

      Reply
      • Em Beitel says

        December 22, 2021 at 11:25 am

        Hi Katie! That’s right. Follow the directions to make the mashed potatoes, then these instructions:

      • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
      • Add mashed potatoes to a casserole dish if they are not already in one.
      • Whisk 1 egg. Brush the egg over the top of the mashed potatoes.
      • Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is slightly toasted.
      • Thank you for your question and enjoy!

        Reply

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    Isabel, AKA Family Foodie

    Hi! I’m Isabel Laessig, also known as Family Foodie. Sunday Supper is my mission to bring family back around the dinner table!

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