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Creamy Buttery Mashed Potato Recipe

Creamy Buttery Mashed Potato Recipe

Velvety and rich, these creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect addition to any meal, offering a warm, buttery flavor that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table.
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Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Creamy Buttery Mashed Potato Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1.5 kg / 3 lb potatoes peeled and diced into 2.5cm (1-inch) cubes (preferably Sebago, Russet, or Maris Piper)
  • 1 tbsp salt for boiling

For Flavoring:

  • 60 g / 4 tbsp unsalted butter cut into pieces
  • 1/2 cup milk ideally warmed
  • 1/2 tsp salt

For Garnish:

  • Extra melted butter for drizzling
  • Chopped chives or parsley

Instructions

  • Place the potatoes in a large pot and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Pour enough water into the pot to cover the potatoes by about 10 cm (4 inches).
  • Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then lower the temperature to maintain a rapid simmer. Allow the potatoes to cook for about 15 minutes, or until they’re exceptionally tender and fall apart easily when pierced with a fork.
  • Drain the potatoes thoroughly, then return them to the pot. Let them sit for about a minute, shaking the pot intermittently to help any remaining water evaporate.
  • Add the butter, warm milk, and salt, then mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk to reach your preferred consistency.
  • Important Note: Avoid using electric mixers or food processors, as these can make the potatoes gluey. If using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, pulse gently and stop as soon as the potatoes are creamy.
  • Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish, creating decorative swirls on the surface. Drizzle melted butter over the top and sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Keeping Warm Options:

  • For up to 30 minutes: Cover the serving bowl tightly with cling wrap and place it in a warm spot, like near the stove. Stir gently before serving.
  • For up to 2 hours: Place the bowl over a pot of hot water, keeping about 3 cm (1 inch) of water simmering below it. Make sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Reheat the water occasionally to maintain warmth.
  • For up to 4 hours: Place mashed potatoes in a slow cooker set to WARM (60°C / 140°F or below). Press parchment paper directly onto the surface, cover tightly with foil, and keep on the warm setting.
  • Day Ahead: For best results, follow a make-ahead mashed potato recipe, which includes a restaurant technique for reheating.

Notes

  • Potatoes – Floury or all-purpose potatoes work best:
    • Australia: Sebago (dirt-brushed potatoes, commonly available)
    • US: Russet
    • UK: Maris Piper
  • Handheld Beater or Stand Mixer – Use with caution, as beating activates starch, which can make potatoes gluey. It creates a smoother, denser creaminess, but over-beating will ruin the texture.
  • Ultra-Smooth Mash – For a perfectly smooth texture, push potatoes through a sieve as done in restaurants. This requires special equipment and is labor-intensive.
  • Ultra-Creamy Paris Mash – Try this indulgent recipe inspired by Guillaume’s famous version, which uses a generous amount of butter for an exceptionally rich and creamy result!