Make rich, fluffy, and incredibly creamy mashed potatoes using this simple technique perfect for weeknight meals or holiday gatherings.
Author:Sofia Fontaine
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:6 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Boiling and Mashing
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
1 cup heavy cream
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 teaspoon salt, plus more for boiling water
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions
Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water by about one inch. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water.
Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Drain the potatoes completely in a colander. Let them sit in the colander for 5 minutes to allow excess steam to evaporate. This step helps prevent watery potatoes.
While the potatoes drain, gently heat the heavy cream and butter in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter is melted. Do not boil the cream mixture. If using garlic, add it to the warming cream.
Transfer the drained potatoes to a large bowl or a potato ricer/food mill set over a bowl. Do not use a food processor or electric mixer, as this makes them gluey.
If using a ricer or mill, process the potatoes. If mashing by hand, use a potato masher until mostly smooth.
Gradually pour the warm cream and butter mixture over the potatoes while gently folding with a rubber spatula until just combined and creamy. Avoid overmixing.
Stir in the 1 teaspoon of salt and the pepper. Taste and add more salt if needed. Serve immediately.
Notes
For the fluffiest texture, use a potato ricer or food mill instead of a standard masher.
Warm the dairy ingredients before adding them; cold liquid cools the potatoes and results in a less smooth texture.
Yukon Gold potatoes work best for a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture.