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A close-up of creamy mashed potatoes, baked to a golden brown and topped with fresh parsley. The Ultimate Mashed Potatoes Recipes Guide for Beginners.

The Ultimate Mashed Potatoes Recipes Guide for Beginners

This guide will teach you how to make fluffy, airy mashed potatoes. It includes tips for beginners, ingredient recommendations, and variations for different tastes and dietary needs.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Make-ahead chilling 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 415
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For Boiling the Potatoes
  • 2 pounds yellow potatoes also called Butter or Yukon Gold potatoes
  • 1 Tablespoon Kosher salt adjust based on salt type
For Mashing the Potatoes
  • 2 ounces unsalted butter high-quality, e.g., Kerrygold or Vermont Creamery
  • 1/2 cup half and half
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt adjust based on salt type
For Garnishing the Potatoes (Optional)
  • 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter melted, high-quality
  • 2 teaspoons fresh chopped chives
  • Pinch fresh cracked black pepper
  • Pinch flaky sea salt e.g., Maldon Salt or Jacobsen Sea Salt

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Potato masher
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

  1. Peel the potatoes if desired. Cut them into evenly sized pieces, about 2.5 inches. Place the potato pieces in a large saucepan and cover with cold water (about 6-8 cups). You can cook them immediately or cover and set aside for a few hours; the cold water prevents browning.
  2. Add 1 tablespoon of Kosher salt to the water. Cover the pot and place it over medium to medium-high heat. Cook until the potatoes reach a low boil, about 25-30 minutes. Test for doneness by piercing a potato with a fork; it should slide in easily. If not, cook for another 3-4 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return the empty pot to the stove.
  3. Return the empty pot to the stove over low heat. Add the butter, half and half, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a low simmer, then turn off the heat. Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Mash the potatoes using your preferred method, being careful not to over-process them for the best texture. Gently fold everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Spoon the mashed potatoes into a serving bowl. If desired, create swirls using the back of a spoon. Drizzle with melted butter and top with fresh chives, cracked black pepper, and flaky sea salt. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 415kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 5.5gFat: 19gCholesterol: 39.6mgSodium: 2832mgSugar: 2.2g

Notes

Adjust salt amounts based on the type you use (Kosher, table, etc.) and your preference. For a richer or runnier texture, add more butter or half and half. For a silky smooth texture, consider using a potato ricer or food mill. Mix-ins like chicken stock, cream cheese, sour cream, roasted garlic, fresh herbs, or cheese can be added for extra flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-6 days and reheated on the stovetop or in a slow cooker with added butter.

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