Homemade mashed potatoes

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Homemade mashed potatoes are by far my go to comfort food and my favorite side dish above anything else. A dish that brings warmth to any meal. Made from scratch, these creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes boast a rich, buttery flavor that melts in your mouth.

What are the best potatoes for making Homemade mashed potatoes?

To create this culinary delight, start by selecting high-quality potatoes, such as russet or Yukon gold, known for their ideal texture and taste. I used russet potatoes in this recipe, but you can use Yukon gold if that’s what you have available.

This recipe for homemade mashed potatoes is one that my grandmother always made, it’s from the 40’s and it’s been kitchen tested for many years, lol. Potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to roasted meals, poultry, or vegetarian dishes.

Ingredients you’ll need to make Homemade mashed potatoes.

To get started making this recipe, you’ll first want to gather all your ingredients first.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Peel and cut your potatoes into evenly sized chunks before boiling them in salted water until tender.

Step 2: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot, allowing any excess moisture to evaporate.

Step 3: Next, add a generous amount of butter, preferably unsalted, and warm milk or cream to the potatoes, salt, and pepper. Use a potato masher and begin to mash the potatoes and blend the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth texture. Some people prefer a chunky texture mashed potato and others prefer no lumps at all, it’s totally up to you how much you mash the potatoes.

There are several classic mashed potato variations that you can explore to add a delightful twist to this comforting dish. Here are a few popular ones:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Incorporate minced or roasted garlic into the mashed potatoes for a subtle yet flavorful twist. The garlic adds a savory note that pairs exceptionally well with roasted meats and hearty stews.
2. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in your favorite shredded cheese, such as cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère, to create a rich and indulgent cheesy version. The melted cheese adds a deliciously creamy texture and enhances the overall flavor.
3. Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes: Mix in a dollop of sour cream for a tangy and creamy variation. The sour cream complements the potatoes’ natural starchiness and provides a delightful zing.
4. Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Add a combination of fresh herbs, such as chives, parsley, or thyme, to infuse the mashed potatoes with a burst of fresh flavors. The herbs bring a touch of brightness and sophistication to the dish.
5. Horseradish Mashed Potatoes: For a bold and zesty kick, mix in prepared horseradish to give your mashed potatoes a unique twist. The horseradish adds a pleasant heat and pairs wonderfully with beef dishes.
6. Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Create a loaded version by incorporating cooked and crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, chives, and even a dollop of sour cream. This indulgent variation is perfect for special occasions or satisfying comfort food cravings.
7. Pesto Mashed Potatoes: Blend in homemade or store-bought pesto sauce to infuse the mashed potatoes with the vibrant flavors of basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. This rendition offers a taste of summer in every spoonful.
8. Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Mashed Potatoes: Roast whole garlic cloves with rosemary until caramelized and fragrant, then mash them into the potatoes. The combination of roasted garlic and rosemary creates an irresistible aroma and flavor.

These classic mashed potato variations allow you to customize the dish to suit your taste preferences and complement various main courses. Whether you prefer a creamy, cheesy, herbed, or zesty twist, each variation is sure to elevate your dining experience and become a favorite on your table.

Be sure not to over mash potatoes.

Over-mashing mashed potatoes can result in a gummy or glue-like texture, which is not desirable. To achieve the perfect fluffy and creamy consistency, it’s essential to avoid over-mashing the potatoes.

Here are some tips to prevent over-mashing:

1. Cook Potatoes Evenly: Make sure to cut the potatoes into similar-sized chunks, so they cook evenly. This way, you can avoid some pieces becoming overcooked while others are still firm.
2. Test for Doneness: Check the potatoes for doneness by poking them with a fork. They should be tender enough to slide off the fork easily. Overcooking can lead to excess water absorption and a gummy texture.
3. Use a Potato Masher: When mashing the potatoes, use a potato masher or a ricer. Avoid using a food processor or blender, as these can over-process the potatoes and make them gluey.
4. Mash Gently: Mash the potatoes gently and in short bursts. Once the potatoes are broken down and well combined with the other ingredients, stop mashing to avoid overworking them.
5. Add Liquid Gradually: When adding liquid (e.g., milk or cream), do it gradually while stirring the potatoes. This way, you can control the consistency and avoid adding too much liquid, which can make the mash too runny.
6. Taste and Adjust: Taste the mashed potatoes as you go and adjust the seasoning or other ingredients according to your preference.

By following these tips, you can achieve the perfect balance between smoothness and fluffiness, resulting in irresistibly creamy and delicious mashed potatoes.

How to reheat mashed potatoes.

To reheat mashed potatoes, you have a few options depending on your preferences and available kitchen equipment. Here are three common methods:

1. Stovetop Reheating:
   • Place the mashed potatoes in a saucepan or a pot over low to medium heat.
   • Add a splash of milk or cream to help retain moisture and prevent them from becoming dry.
   • Stir the mashed potatoes frequently to ensure even heating and to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan.
   • Reheat until the potatoes are thoroughly warmed, and the desired temperature is reached.
   • Be careful not to overheat to avoid altering the texture.
2. Oven Reheating:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Transfer the mashed potatoes into an oven-safe dish or casserole dish.
   • Dot the top of the potatoes with small pieces of butter to add moisture.
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
   • Heat the mashed potatoes in the oven for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
   • Remove from the oven and give them a gentle stir before serving.
3. Microwave Reheating:
   • Place the mashed potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl or dish.
   • Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
   • Microwave on medium power for short intervals, such as 1 minute, and stir in between.
   • Continue reheating in short intervals until the mashed potatoes are heated thoroughly.
   • Take care not to microwave them for too long at once, as it can cause uneven heating or overcooking.

Regardless of the method you choose, make sure to reheat the mashed potatoes until they are heated to your desired temperature. Stir them well after reheating to ensure even distribution of heat and to maintain their creamy consistency. Reheated mashed potatoes can be just as delicious as freshly made ones, so enjoy your warm and comforting side dish!