Name: Creamy Basic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds baking potatoes (such as russets), peeled and quartered; 3 cloves garlic, peeled (optional, for added flavor); 1 cup milk (whole, low-fat, or half-and-half for a richer texture); 2 tablespoons butter; Salt, to taste; Ground black pepper, to taste

Description

This creamy basic mashed potatoes recipe delivers smooth and flavorful mashed potatoes that are perfect as a comforting side dish. Made with simple ingredients like russet potatoes, milk, butter, and optional garlic, this classic recipe is easy to prepare and yields a rich, creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes and Aromatics

2 pounds baking potatoes (such as russets), peeled and quartered
3 cloves garlic, peeled (optional, for added flavor)

Liquid and Fat

1 cup milk (whole, low-fat, or half-and-half for a richer texture)
2 tablespoons butter

Seasoning

Salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Boil the Potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and quartered potatoes, along with the optional garlic cloves if using. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Heat the Milk and Butter: While the potatoes are cooking, gently heat the milk and butter together in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter is completely melted. Remove from heat and set aside.
Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and garlic, returning the potatoes to the pot. Gradually add the warm milk and butter mixture while mashing the potatoes with a potato masher or a hand mixer, continuing until the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
Season and Serve: Season the mashed potatoes with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm, optionally topped with extra butter or your favorite gravy for added richness.

Notes

For a richer taste, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of low-fat milk.
If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash the potatoes less thoroughly.
Roasting the garlic before boiling can add a sweeter, more complex flavor.
Mashed potatoes are best served fresh but can be kept warm in a covered dish or reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American