The Ultimate Guide to Making Creamy Homemade Mashed Potatoes: Your Go-To Recipe for Fluffy Perfection
There’s an undeniable comfort and joy found in a perfectly prepared batch of mashed potatoes. Rich, smooth, and utterly delicious, especially when generously topped with melted butter and an optional drizzle of savory gravy, homemade mashed potatoes stand apart. This isn’t just any side dish; it’s a culinary cornerstone, a star of holiday feasts like Thanksgiving and Christmas, and a comforting presence whenever you crave a truly solid and satisfying mashed potatoes recipe. Forget the box mix – once you experience the creamy magic of this homemade version, there’s simply no going back.
Why This Creamy Mashed Potato Recipe is a Family Favorite
The mere thought of digging my fork into a generous pile of fluffy, homemade mashed potatoes instantly conjures images of festive Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts. It’s undeniably one of those beloved side dishes that earns anticipation and applause at any gathering, big or small. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, these creamy traditional mashed potatoes elevate any meal.
These incredible mashed potatoes would make the perfect, indulgent accompaniment to a hearty main course like my Crockpot Roast Beef, creating a truly memorable meal that will impress everyone at your table. The smooth texture and rich flavor perfectly complement the tender beef.
While we certainly appreciate the convenience and deliciousness of an easy crockpot mashed potato recipe, these creamy traditional mashed potatoes truly capture the essence of home-style cooking and comfort. If you’re looking to explore other potato options, be sure to check out our brown butter mashed potatoes for a nutty twist, the traditional Irish colcannon mashed potatoes, or the wonderfully crisp crispy roast potatoes!
What truly sets this particular recipe for mashed potatoes apart, granting them their signature “creaminess” and irresistible texture, is the harmonious blend of rich half and half, tangy cream cheese, and an abundance of decadent, high-quality butter. This combination creates a luxurious mouthfeel that is both smooth and deeply flavorful, making these the best mashed potatoes you’ll ever taste.
Choosing The Right Potatoes for Perfectly Creamy Mash
The foundation of truly exceptional homemade mashed potatoes begins with selecting the correct potato variety. For the smoothest, most delectable mashed mixture, Yukon Golds are an absolute must. Their naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture make them the ideal choice, yielding a consistently smooth mash without becoming gummy. Their beautiful yellow hue is also a fantastic bonus, adding to the visual appeal of your finished dish.
While Yukon Golds are fantastic peeled, you also have the option of embracing a more rustic aesthetic by leaving the skins on. If you decide to keep the skins, ensure you scrub them very thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Additionally, take a moment to cut off any rough, green, or bruised areas before cooking. Leaving the skins on adds a subtle texture and extra nutrients, perfect for a casual family meal.
When preparing the potatoes for this recipe, there’s no need for elaborate knife skills. Simply cut them in half. For any particularly large potatoes, quarter them to ensure even cooking. The goal is consistent sizing so they all become fork-tender around the same time. Since they will all be mashed after cooking, precision isn’t paramount; just aim for pieces that will cook evenly and efficiently.
Essential Ingredients for Your Fluffy Mashed Potatoes
Crafting the perfect batch of creamy mashed potatoes requires a few key ingredients that work in harmony to deliver incredible flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: The star of the show. Their creamy texture and naturally buttery flavor are unmatched for mashing.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds unparalleled richness and a silky mouthfeel. Using unsalted allows you to control the overall saltiness.
- Half and Half: Provides a creamy liquid base without being overly heavy. Heavy cream can be substituted for an even richer result, or a mix of both.
- Cream Cheese: The secret ingredient for extra creaminess and a subtle, delightful tang that elevates the flavor profile. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
- Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning the cooking water and enhancing the overall flavor of the potatoes.
- Fresh Ground Black Pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and spice. Adjust to your personal preference.
- Seasoning Mix: A blend like Lawry’s Seasoning Salt or a ‘season all’ blend provides an extra layer of savory flavor. Italian seasoning can also offer a unique twist.
- Turkey Gravy (Optional): The ultimate topping for serving, adding an extra layer of savory indulgence.
How to Make The Best Homemade Creamy Mashed Potatoes
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are provided to help you visualize each stage of making this incredibly delicious recipe. For a convenient, printable version complete with all measurements and instructions, you can Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by thoroughly washing your Yukon Gold potatoes. Cut them in half, and for any particularly large halves, quarter them to ensure they cook evenly. While optional, you can peel the potatoes for an extra smooth mash; if keeping skins on, make sure to scrub them very well and remove any rough spots.
- Boil to Perfection: Fill a large Dutch oven or a spacious soup pot about 3/4 full with water. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water – this seasons the potatoes from the inside out. Add your prepared potatoes to the pot. Place the pot on the stovetop over high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and continue cooking for a total of approximately 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are undeniably fork-tender. They should offer very little resistance when pierced.
- Drain and Steam: Carefully drain the cooked potatoes in a colander. Crucially, allow them to steam for a few moments in the colander. This step is vital as it helps evaporate excess moisture, preventing your mashed potatoes from becoming watery or gluey. After steaming, return the dry, fluffy potatoes to the empty pot.
- Incorporate Richness: Add the softened butter (1/2 cup, or one stick, cut into pieces) and the room-temperature block of regular cream cheese directly to the hot potatoes in the pot. The residual heat from the potatoes will help these ingredients melt and incorporate beautifully.
- Mash to Creaminess: Using a handheld electric mixer (or a sturdy potato ricer for an even finer texture, or a traditional potato masher for a chunkier result), begin combining the butter, cream cheese, and cooked potatoes. Mix until they reach your desired consistency – smooth and creamy is the goal for this recipe.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the half and half, sprinkle in your chosen seasoning mix, and add the fresh ground black pepper. Continue to combine with the mixer until everything is well incorporated and the potatoes are light and fluffy. Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust the flavors as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or seasoning mix to your liking.
- Serve and Enjoy: At this point, your creamy homemade mashed potatoes are ready to be served! If you are serving them directly from the Dutch oven, you can top them with the remaining pats of butter (from the other stick), and an optional pour of savory gravy. Add more salt and pepper to taste. Alternatively, transfer the mashed potatoes to a beautiful serving bowl and then add your chosen toppings. Serve immediately and watch them disappear!
Expert Tips for the Best Mashed Potatoes Every Time
- Don’t Overwork the Potatoes: While an electric mixer is great for achieving creaminess, be careful not to overmix. Overworking potatoes can release too much starch, leading to a gummy or gluey texture. Mix until just combined and smooth.
- Warm Your Dairy: For the ultimate smooth consistency, gently warm your half and half (or heavy cream) before adding it to the potatoes. Cold dairy can seize up the butter and cream cheese, making it harder to get a silky mash.
- Season Generously: Potatoes are notorious for needing a good amount of salt. Don’t be shy! Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. Remember to factor in any salty toppings like gravy later.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh, good quality butter and cream cheese will significantly impact the flavor. Room temperature dairy also incorporates much more smoothly.
- Keep Them Warm: Mashed potatoes are best served hot. If you’re not serving immediately, you can keep them warm in a slow cooker on a “warm” setting, or cover the pot and place it in a low oven (around 200°F / 93°C) for a short period, stirring occasionally.
Delicious Pairings and More Recipe Ideas
These creamy homemade mashed potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide array of main dishes. Here are a few more recipe ideas to inspire your next meal:
- For another beloved dinner side dish, our creamy crockpot macaroni and cheese is a phenomenal, hands-off option that starts with uncooked macaroni. Just toss the milk, cheeses, and seasonings into the slow cooker for an irresistibly cheesy meal everyone will adore!
- If you’re a fan of flavorful potato dishes, these Rosemary Garlic Roasted Potatoes are a fantastic choice. Their aromatic herbs and tender interior make them a versatile side that complements many entrees, especially poultry, thanks to that generous infusion of rosemary and garlic.
- When it comes to ultimate comfort food, serve your creamy traditional mashed potatoes alongside our BEST Meatloaf Recipe Ever! This classic combination creates a deeply satisfying and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
- And finally, if you’re preparing these delectable mashed potatoes for the holidays, don’t forget to complete your festive spread with my vibrant and refreshing cranberry holiday punch! It’s the perfect sweet and tangy beverage to complement your rich meal.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating Instructions
Mashed potatoes can be a fantastic make-ahead option, especially for busy holiday meals. Here’s how to manage them:
- Make Ahead (up to 2 days): Prepare the mashed potatoes according to the recipe. Transfer them to a heat-safe baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: About 1 hour before you plan to reheat, take the dish out of the refrigerator to bring it closer to room temperature. If the potatoes appear a bit dry after refrigeration, splash a little extra half and half (or milk/cream) over the top. Reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through and steaming. Stir gently before serving. You can also reheat smaller portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through.
- Freezing: While possible, freezing mashed potatoes can sometimes alter their texture. If you choose to freeze, ensure they are cooled completely, then transfer to an airtight, freezer-safe container or freezer bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as above, adding extra liquid if needed.
- Storage: Leftover mashed potatoes should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mashed Potatoes
What makes mashed potatoes gluey?
Gluey mashed potatoes are usually caused by overworking them. When potatoes are mashed too much, especially with a food processor or blender, the starch cells break down excessively and release their starch, resulting in a sticky, pasty, and gluey texture. Using a hand masher, ricer, or an electric mixer on low speed helps prevent this.
Can I use different types of potatoes?
While Yukon Golds are highly recommended for their creamy texture, you can use other starchy or all-purpose potatoes. Russet potatoes are another excellent choice for fluffy mashed potatoes. Red potatoes or new potatoes can also be used, often leaving the skins on for a more rustic style, but they tend to be waxier and may not yield as creamy a result.
What’s the best way to add flavor to mashed potatoes?
Beyond salt and pepper, consider adding roasted garlic, fresh chives, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or even a touch of white truffle oil for an elevated flavor. Don’t forget your favorite seasoning mixes!
Why is room temperature butter and cream cheese important?
Using room temperature butter and cream cheese allows them to blend much more smoothly and evenly into the hot potatoes. Cold dairy products can cause lumps and make it harder to achieve that desired silky, creamy texture.
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Homemade Creamy Mashed Potatoes
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes halves and quarter the large ones, peeled (optional), rough parts removed
- 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature, 2 sticks. divided, cut 1 stick into pats of butter
- ¾ cup half and half (you can substitute the same amount heavy cream or a combination of both)
- 8 ounces regular cream cheese 1 block cream cheese. room temperature
- 1 tablespoon Kosher salt for salting the water for boiling the potatoes, plus more for seasoning and serving
- ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper 1/2-1 tsp. amount to taste
- ½ teaspoon seasoning mix 1/2-1 tsp. like Lawry’s Seasoning Salt, season all, you could do Italian seasoning, amount to taste
- 1 cup turkey gravy Brown or turkey gravy- for topping/serving, optional
Things You’ll Need
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Electric mixer
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Large soup pot
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Colander
Before You Begin / Make-Ahead Tips
Instructions
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In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, add the prepared Yukon Gold potatoes. Fill the pot with water until the potatoes are covered, then add 1 tablespoon of Kosher salt. Place on the stovetop over high heat, bring to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for approximately 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork (fork-tender).
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Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Allow them to sit and steam for a few moments (this helps remove excess moisture for fluffier potatoes), then return them to the empty pot.
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To the hot potatoes in the pot, add 1/2 cup (which is 1 stick) of unsalted butter, cut into pieces, and the entire 8-ounce block of regular cream cheese. Ensure both are at room temperature for optimal blending.
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Using a handheld electric mixer, carefully combine the butter, cream cheese, and cooked potatoes until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the potatoes gummy.
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Pour in the half and half, then sprinkle in the seasoning mix and fresh ground black pepper. Continue to mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the potatoes are light and fluffy. Taste and adjust the seasoning (salt, pepper, or seasoning mix) to your preference.
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Serve your perfectly creamy homemade mashed potatoes. You can top them with the remaining pats of butter (from the second stick), and an optional drizzle of savory gravy. Add more salt and pepper to taste if desired. Enjoy this comforting side dish!
Nutrition Information (Estimated)
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
This post originally appeared here on Nov 18, 2018, and has been updated and expanded for clarity and comprehensiveness.