Easy Mashed Potatoes Recipe for Weeknight Dinners
On chilly evenings, nothing feels more comforting than scooping into a bowl of fluffy Mashed Potatoes Recipe, a dish that has been a staple at family dinners for generations. I first learned this recipe from my grandmother, who always reminded me never to rush the mash: “Patience makes them creamy, not gluey,” she’d say. Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks of my own that turn this simple side into the star of the meal.This recipe is for anyone who craves a cozy, reliable side dish perfect for holiday tables, weeknight roasts, or whenever you want pure, buttery comfort.Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
Method
- Peel & cut. Peel the potatoes and cut them into even chunks (about 2 inches). This ensures they cook evenly.
- Boil. Place in a large pot, cover with cold water, add 1 tsp salt, and bring to a boil. Simmer 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain well. Don’t skip this; excess water will make mashed potatoes runny. Let them steam and dry for 1–2 minutes.
- Mash. Return the potatoes to the pot. Mash with a potato masher (or use a ricer for an ultra-smooth texture).
- Add butter & milk. Stir in butter first (it melts into the starch), then add warm milk gradually until creamy.
- Season. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve. Spoon into a warm dish, dot with extra butter, and serve immediately.
Video
Notes
🥔 Potato choice matters: Yukon golds give a buttery creaminess; Russets give a fluffy texture.
❌ Mistake I made once: Added cold milk straight from the fridge, which shocked the potatoes and made them lumpy. Warm milk always works best.
🧈 Butter first: Adding butter before milk coats the starch and prevents gumminess.
🌿 Seasonal twist: In the winter, I sometimes fold in toasted garlic or fresh chives for a flavor boost.
Tips & Tricks
- Make ahead: Keep mashed potatoes warm in a covered dish over a pot of simmering water for up to an hour. Stir before serving.
- Ultra-creamy version: Replace half the milk with heavy cream for a luxurious texture.
- Light option: Swap half the potatoes for cauliflower for a lighter mash.
- Texture control: Mash less for rustic, chunky potatoes or whip with a hand mixer for a smoother finish. (But don’t overmix, or they’ll turn gluey!)
- Serving idea: Top leftovers with shredded cheese and bake for a quick potato casserole.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect pairings: Roast chicken, grilled steak, or pan-seared salmon.
- Holiday favorite: A must-have along with turkey, gravy, and stuffing.
- Vegetarian option: Serve with sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions for a hearty meat-free plate.
- Casual comfort: Works beautifully with meatloaf or BBQ ribs for a cozy family dinner.
- Leftover magic: Use as a topping for shepherd’s pie or potato pancakes the next day.
Nutrition (per serving, 1 cup)
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbs: 32 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Fiber: 3 g
