Traditional Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery, and irresistibly comforting, this recipe for Traditional Mashed Potatoes is a timeless side dish that embodies simplicity and flavor. Made with fluffy Russet potatoes, unsalted butter, and warm whole milk, these mashed potatoes deliver a velvety texture that's both luxurious and satisfying. An optional touch of garlic lends a subtle depth of flavor, while a garnish of fresh chives can add brightness to your presentation. Perfect as a complement to roasted meats, holiday feasts, or weeknight dinners, this classic dish comes together in just 35 minutes. Whether you're hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy family meal, these mashed potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Russet potatoes
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 0.5 cups Whole milk
• 1 teaspoons Salt
• 0.5 teaspoons Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cloves Garlic (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 tablespoons Chives (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks (about 1.5-inch pieces) to ensure uniform cooking.

Step 2

Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water.

Step 3

(Optional) If using garlic, peel the cloves and add them to the pot with the potatoes for a subtle garlic flavor.

Step 4

Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle boil. Cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 5

While the potatoes are cooking, warm the milk in a small saucepan over low heat (do not boil). This helps the potatoes absorb the milk more easily.

Step 6

Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them thoroughly in a colander. Allow them to sit for 1-2 minutes to let excess moisture evaporate.

Step 7

Return the drained potatoes to the pot or transfer them to a mixing bowl. Add the butter and warm milk.

Step 8

Mash the potatoes using a potato masher, ricer, or electric hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the potatoes gummy.

Step 9

Season the mashed potatoes with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 10

Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped chives if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1101.3 grams (1101.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1377

Total Fat 51.90g	67%
Saturated Fat 30.30g	152%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.10g
Cholesterol 139mg	46%
Sodium 2542mg	111%
Total Carbohydrate 207.90g	76%
Dietary Fiber 16.40g	59%
Total Sugars 16.40g
Protein 31.20g	62%

Vitamin D 54IU	269%
Calcium 317mg	24%
Iron 11mg	61%
Potassium 5322mg	113%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 32.8%

Protein: 8.8%

Carbs: 58.4%