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Creamy mashed potatoes with a butter swirl and black pepper on top

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy potatoes that taste finished--rich, smooth, and not sticky.

Total: 40 minActive: 25 minDifficulty: EasyYield: 6 servings

Timing: 25 mins

SouthernDairyDinner

Key move

Dry the potatoes briefly and add butter before milk to build a richer base.

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The Setup

  • Cutting Board
  • Chef's Knife

The Mise en Place

5 of 6

Your prep station before cooking begins

The Spice Blend (0/2)

1½ tbspkosher salt(for the water)
½ tspblack pepper

The Finish (0/1)

¼ cupssour cream(optional, for tang)

Other (0/3)

3 lbyukon gold potatoes(peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks)
6 tbspbutter(more to taste)

My mash is gluey and stretchy, not fluffy at all.

Ah, you've overworked them! That's a common trap. For the perfect mash, always use a ricer or a simple hand masher, and be gentle. Just a few strokes to get it smooth, then stop. N…

My mash tastes watery and thin, even after adding butter.

Sounds like those potatoes held onto a bit too much water. After draining, pop them back in the hot pot for just a minute or two over low heat. Let them steam off any extra moistur…

Chef's Notes

Tip

Do not use a blender/food processor; it will turn the mash gummy.

Variation

Add roasted garlic or chives; finish with a butter swirl and flaky salt.

Make Ahead

Hold warm in a covered dish over a water bath; loosen with warm milk before serving.

The Method

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