There’s nothing quite like a comforting dish of mashed potatoes, especially during the Thanksgiving season. The creamy texture and rich flavor of classic mashed potatoes paired with savory gravy can bring the whole meal together. Let’s dive into making the best mashed potatoes you’ve ever tasted!
The Best Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes
These mashed potatoes are fluffy, buttery, and absolutely delicious. They are perfect for serving alongside your turkey and all the fixings. Let’s take a closer look at the essential ingredients and how to whip up this crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup of sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by peeling the Yukon Gold potatoes and cutting them into quarters. This will help them cook more evenly and faster.
- Place the potato quarters in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it boils, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer until they are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- While the potatoes are cooking, heat the heavy cream and butter together in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot. Let them sit for a minute or two to allow some steam to escape — this will help them stay fluffy.
- Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. For an ultra-smooth texture, you can use a potato ricer.
- Pour the warm cream and butter mixture into the mashed potatoes, and mix until combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you’re feeling indulgent, stir in sour cream or cream cheese for a richer flavor.
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and top with chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve immediately alongside your favorite turkey and gravy!
Enjoy these mashed potatoes at your Thanksgiving table, and watch them disappear quickly. They are a timeless classic that will leave everyone looking for seconds!
