22 minutes
Discover the quickest route to creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes with our refined method. Perfectly cooked potatoes and a velvety blend of butter and half-and-half come together in no time, ensuring a delightful side dish that's sure to impress.
Yukon Gold Potatoes, peeled and sliced ¼ inch thick
0 lb
tablespoons
Unsalted Butter, cut into ¼-inch slices
tablespoons
teaspoons
1. Potato Prep
Start by bringing 2 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan on high heat. Carefully add the sliced potatoes, ensuring they are completely submerged (add a splash more water if needed). Once the water returns to a boil, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pan and let the potatoes cook until a paring knife slides into the center of a potato slice without any resistance, about 12 minutes.
2. Mashing Magic
Drain the potatoes well. Choose your favorite tool—a potato masher, ricer, or food mill—and process the potatoes until they reach your preferred texture.
3. Warmth and Richness
Gently stir in ¼ cup of half-and-half, the butter, and salt until the mixture is well combined. For a creamier texture, gradually add the remaining half-and-half as you see fit. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired, then serve piping hot.
Incorporate crispy bacon bits, sour cream, chives, and shredded cheese. This variant turns your mashed potatoes into a decadent, meal-like dish reminiscent of a loaded baked potato.
Stir in grated cheese such as cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan before serving. Cheese adds a savory depth and richness that complements the creamy texture of the potatoes.
Add roasted or sautéed garlic to the potatoes while mashing. The sweet, mellow flavor of garlic can transform the basic recipe into a more complex side dish.
Stir in a handful of grated cheese such as sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or smoked gouda for a creamy and cheesy variation. For a tangy twist, add some crumbled blue cheese or feta.
Mix in fresh herbs like chives, parsley, rosemary, or thyme for a fragrant twist. Herbs can brighten the flavor and add a pop of color.
Salt is critical for flavor; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
For creamy mashed potatoes, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for the best texture.
Mix in the butter before milk or cream for a silky consistency.
Gently heat butter, milk, or cream before adding to potatoes for a smooth blend.
Boil until just tender to prevent a gluey texture.
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