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Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe Easy Restaurant-Quality Comfort Food

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This creamy mashed potatoes recipe delivers a smooth, buttery texture with a subtle garlic depth, perfect for any occasion from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup heavy cream, warmed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1½ teaspoons salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Chives or parsley, finely chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel and cut the Yukon Gold potatoes into evenly sized chunks, about 2-inch pieces.
  2. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Drain the potatoes well in a colander. Return them to the hot pot off the heat and gently shake the pot for 1-2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
  4. Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes until smooth. Avoid overmixing.
  5. In a small saucepan, warm the heavy cream with minced garlic over low heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and strain out garlic if desired.
  6. Add the softened butter and cream cheese to the potatoes. Stir gently until melted and combined.
  7. Slowly pour the warm cream into the potatoes, stirring gently. Add just enough to reach your desired consistency.
  8. Stir in salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  9. Transfer to a serving bowl. Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top for color and freshness. Serve immediately.

Notes

To avoid gluey mashed potatoes, do not overmix. Warm dairy before adding to potatoes for smoother texture. Drain and steam dry potatoes well after boiling to prevent watery mash. If potatoes stiffen after sitting, whisk in warm cream or milk to revive creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, comfort food, easy side dish, restaurant-quality mashed potatoes