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The Ultimate Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky, Fluffy, and Foolproof

A generous scoop of rich, fluffy creamy mashed potatoes served on a white plate.
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Learn the secrets to making the best mashed potatoes every time. This recipe focuses on technique and the right dairy to achieve ultra-creamy, rich, and fluffy potatoes perfect for any dinner or holiday feast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 cup Whole Milk, warmed
  • 8 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, cut into pieces and softened
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese, softened (secret ingredient for extra creaminess)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt, plus more for boiling water
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • Pinch of Nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water by about one inch. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water.
  2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a fork.
  3. Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Let them sit for 5 minutes to allow excess steam to evaporate; this prevents watery potatoes.
  4. Return the drained potatoes to the hot, empty pot. Place the pot over very low heat for 1 minute, shaking gently, to dry them out further. Remove from heat.
  5. Add the softened butter pieces and cream cheese to the potatoes. Mash them lightly with a potato masher until mostly broken down.
  6. Slowly pour in the warm whole milk while gently mixing with a wooden spoon or a hand mixer on the lowest speed. Mix just until smooth. Do not overmix, or your potatoes will become gluey.
  7. Stir in the salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Notes

  • For the silkiest texture, use a potato ricer instead of a masher after drying the potatoes.
  • Warming the milk and butter before adding them helps them incorporate smoothly without cooling down the potatoes.
  • If you want garlic mashed potatoes creamy, add 2 cloves of roasted garlic when you add the butter and cream cheese.
  • You can make these ahead! Cool completely, then reheat gently on the stove with a splash of extra milk or cream.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastetaught.com/creamy-mashed-potatoes-ultimate-recipe/