Traditional Mashed Potatoes
- Nikki Glekas
- Mar 23
- 2 min read
Today I'd like to share a recipe for traditional mashed potatoes. There are many delicious, fancier ways to make mashed potatoes than this, but sometimes it's best to dial it back to the basics. This recipe contains all the typical ingredients of mashed potatoes: potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper, and nothing extra!
One of the key things to remember about making mashed potatoes is to never put them in the blender or food processor after they're cooked. There is a lot of starch in potatoes and they'll get gluey in an instant if you try to cut corners by using a machine. The best way to make them is with a potato ricer or a masher. It may take a few minutes longer, but this is what creates the fluffy, light texture we all love.
While you may reserve making mashed potatoes from scratch for holidays only, they also work really well for regular meals any time of the year. I make these for a lot of big holiday gatherings, but also for a regular weekend meal when I'm serving pork tenderloin or roast chicken. They go with everything!
I love these traditional mashed potatoes and hope you find this recipe manageable and delicious. Enjoy!
Traditional Mashed Potatoes
Fluffy, buttery and perfect for any occasion, this is a classic mashed potatoes recipe.
Ingredients
2 lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
½ cup whole milk, warmed (more as needed)
4–6 tbsp unsalted butter
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Instructions
Peel the potatoes (or leave skins on for a rustic style) and cut them into evenly sized chunks.
Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring them to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes, until very tender when pierced with a fork.
Drain well and return potatoes to the hot pot. Let them sit for 1–2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or ricer until smooth.
Add the butter and stir into the mash until it is completely melted. Gradually stir in warm milk until creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nikki Glekas is the owner of Nikki Glekas Events, a full-service catering and events company located in Stamford, CT.. To discuss further please contact team@nikkiglekascollective.com or call 203.658.8659.
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