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Creamy homemade mashed potatoes swirled with melted butter and sprinkled with fresh chives and cracked black pepper, served in a rustic ceramic bowl

The BEST Mashed Potatoes Recipe

A classic, creamy mashed potato recipe featuring tender potatoes, rich butter, warm milk, and optional garlic, perfect as a comforting side dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 260
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pounds potatoes russet or Yukon gold
  • 3 cloves garlic optional
  • ⅓ cup melted salted butter
  • 1 cup milk or cream
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Pot
  • Potato Masher

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Peel and quarter the potatoes, then place them in a pot of cold salted water.
  2. Add garlic cloves (if using), bring to a boil, and cook uncovered for 15 minutes or until fork-tender; drain well.
  3. Warm the milk on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  4. Add butter to the drained potatoes and begin mashing, gradually pouring in the warm milk until the desired consistency is reached.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, then serve the mashed potatoes hot.

Notes

For the best texture, ensure your milk is warm before adding it to the potatoes. Be careful not to over-mash, as this can result in gluey potatoes.