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5.0 from 318 votes

Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe

These are the best homemade mashed potatoes I've tried! They're smooth, creamy, and full of rich flavor. Serve them with butter and chives, or top them with savory mushroom gravy. This recipe is an easy, delicious side dish for Thanksgiving or any meal.

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
15 mins
Total Time
45 mins
Servings: 8
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds potatoes russet potatoes, Yukon Golds, or a mix, peeled and cut into large chunks
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • ½ cup unsalted butter 1 stick, plus more for serving
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1½ teaspoons sea salt plus more for the cooking water
  • freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ to ½ cup sour cream optional
  • chopped fresh chives for garnish

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Place the potatoes and garlic in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Season the water with a tablespoon of salt.
  2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and gently boil for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return to the pot.
  3. Begin to mash the potatoes and garlic with a potato masher. When they are partially mashed, add the butter, milk, salt, and several grinds of pepper. Continue mashing until the potatoes reach your desired consistency (we like them totally smooth), then use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold in the sour cream, if using.
  4. Season to taste and serve topped with butter and chives.