Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Craving the ultimate mashed potatoes recipe? You're in the right place! This beloved recipe, using just a few basic ingredients, guarantees creamy, irresistible results every time.

How to Prepare Mashed Potatoes

Below is the complete, step-by-step guide to making these delicious mashed potatoes — but here's a quick rundown of what to expect when you make them:

1. Cook the potatoes: Place the potatoes and garlic in a large pot of salted, boiling water. Lower the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender.
2. Warm the milk: In a saucepan, heat the milk and butter until the butter is completely melted.
3. Mash the potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Gradually stir in the warm milk mixture, mashing with a potato masher or using a mixer until smooth and creamy. Season to your liking.

How Long to Boil Potatoes for Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Boiled, peeled, and quartered potatoes should be fully cooked in about 15-20 minutes. If you keep the potatoes whole, it may take a bit longer.

Best Potatoes for Making Mashed Potatoes

The ideal potatoes for mashing vary depending on your preference — some types yield light and fluffy mashed potatoes, while others create a richer, creamier texture.

This recipe uses baking potatoes (also known as russets), perfect for light, fluffy mashed potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes, a versatile option, also deliver delicious, crowd-pleasing results.

How to Store Leftover Mashed Potatoes

Let the mashed potatoes cool completely, then transfer them into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat using the microwave, oven, or stovetop for best results.

Can You Freeze Mashed Potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes in individual or family-sized portions for up to one month. Simply thaw them overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen using a slow cooker, stovetop, or oven.

Get detailed instructions: How to Freeze and Reheat Mashed Potatoes

Dinogo Community Tips and Feedback

"Wow," says Cheryl Gillam. "This is so simple!! Thank you for sharing this recipe. I’ll definitely be warming the milk and butter separately from now on. Who knew such a small change could make such a big difference?"

"My kids can't get enough of these when I make them," says a Dinogo community member. "I mix an egg into the potatoes, and it makes them taste richer and creamier."

"The best mashed potatoes I've ever made!" says Kate Rigatuso. "I followed the recipe exactly, but used a stand mixer to combine the potatoes with the melted butter and milk, and the result was perfect — light and fluffy!"

Contributions by Corey Williams

Ingredients List

• 2 pounds baking potatoes, peeled and quartered

• 3 cloves garlic, peeled, or to taste (Optional)

• 1 cup milk

• 2 tablespoons butter

• salt and ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare all your ingredients.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes and garlic, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.

As the potatoes near completion, warm the milk and butter in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter has fully melted.

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Gradually pour in the warm milk mixture, mashing or mixing with a potato masher or electric mixer until the potatoes are perfectly smooth and creamy.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve and enjoy!

Cooking Tip

Nutritional Information (per serving)