Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that brings warmth and familiarity to any meal. This creamy, buttery side dish perfectly complements a variety of main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled steak. Here’s a delightful recipe for classic creamy mashed potatoes that transforms simple ingredients into a dish that is both rich in flavor and incredibly satisfying.
Classic Creamy Mashed Potatoes
This recipe is designed to provide you with perfectly smooth and flavorful mashed potatoes that will impress family and friends alike.
### Ingredients
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into even chunks, about 1-2 inches each. This will ensure they cook evenly.
- Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- Once cooked, drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Allow them to sit for a minute to let excess moisture evaporate.
- Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the milk (or cream) and warm it up, but do not bring it to a boil.
- Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Gradually add the warm milk and melted butter mixture, stirring until fully combined and desired creaminess is achieved.
- Season the mashed potatoes with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. For an added touch, sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top before serving.
- Serve warm as a delightful side dish to your favorite entrées, and enjoy the creamy goodness!
This classic creamy mashed potatoes recipe is not only simple but also a delightful addition to any dinner table. The key to achieving the perfect texture is to use the right type of potatoes and to ensure the milk and butter are warm when combined. Enjoy your cooking!
