BONUS: Learn my make-ahead method and instructions for freezing and reheating!
Be sure to try my Green Bean Casserole and homemade Dinner Rolls next!
Homemade Mashed Potatoes
There are few things better than perfect, creamy, homemade mashed potatoes. There are a ton of different ways to make mashed potatoes. From the type of potato you use, if and how you slice them, how long you boil them, and even how you mash them! Are you ready to learn the secret to making the best mashed potatoes?! Let’s do it!
How to Make the Best Homemade Mashed Potatoes
Use a Starchy Potato:
Yukon Golds or Russets are perfect for mashing. You can also use a combination of both! Using waxy potatoes such as red or new potatoes can cause your mashed potatoes to have a gluey consistency as opposed to being nice and creamy.
Cut the Potatoes into 3/4-inch Slices:
This allows them to cook evenly. Some say to boil whole potatoes to prevent them from absorbing too much water, but they cook unevenly this way. You can choose to leave the skins on or off, or you can leave some of them on. Just be sure to scrub them thoroughly if leaving the skins on.
Use COLD Water, slowly bring to a gentle boil:
This ensures that the potatoes cook evenly. Otherwise the middle will be hard and the outside will be soft.
Salt the water once it’s reached a boil:
This is the best way to evenly season the potatoes all the way through, you can always add more salt at the end. You’ll use about 1 teaspoon of salt per pound of potatoes.
Let the Steam Rise after Draining:
Once you’ve drained the potatoes, return them to the warm pot and let them steam for 5 minutes, this will allow excess moisture that the potatoes absorbed to steam off.
Don’t Add Cold Ingredients to Warm Potatoes:
Make sure the half and half, sour cream, and butter are all room temperature. This ensures the potatoes are able to fully absorb them which makes them extra creamy.
Add Butter Before the Half and Half/Sour Cream:
The butter helps to coat the starch and gives you a silkier consistency.
Don’t Over-Mash:
Potatoes release starch every time they’re handled/mashed. Too much starch leads to a gluey, gummy consistency. A dual-action potato masher works well for this. Avoid any type of electric mixer as they will go from creamy to gluey very quickly.
Here’s What The Process Looks Like:
How Many Potatoes Per Person
While 1/2 lb. of potatoes is enough to prepare per person, I like to use .85 pounds per person to ensure that there is plenty to go around. Any leftover mashed potatoes can be used to make my Baked Potato Soup or Mashed Potato Casserole.
Can You Peel Potatoes Ahead of Time
Yes, this is a great shortcut when you’re entertaining. Place peeled and sliced potatoes in a pot and submerge them in cold water. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Make-Ahead Method
If you prefer to boil and mash your potatoes ahead of time so that you only need to reheat them:
Add an extra 1-2 Tablespoons butter. Stir in 2-3 additional Tablespoons warmed half and half, (preferably whole), at the end of cooking. Cover the pot and refrigerate for 1-2 days. Let it sit out for 1 hour prior to reheating.
How to Reheat Mashed Potatoes
Stirring occasionally is ideal of all methods below. Add a little warm half and half if the potatoes appear too thick.
Slow Cooker: Low heat for 1-2 hours. Reduce to warm until ready to serve. Microwave: 50% power in 1-minute intervals, covered, until heated through. Stir in between. Oven: Cover and cook at 350° for 30 minutes. Stove: Medium-low heat for about 20 minutes, covered.
Freezing Leftovers
If you plan on freezing leftovers, be extra generous with the half and half and butter. Per The Kitchn, this helps them freeze and reheat well. Freezing the whole batch:
Place all of your cooled leftover potatoes into a freezer bag, remove air, seal tightly, and freeze.
Freezing Portion Sizes:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a measuring cup to scoop 1-cup portion sizes onto the sheet. Flash freeze for 1 hour. Transfer to a freezer Ziploc bag. Best if used within 3 months.
Reheating Frozen Potatoes:
Let the potatoes thaw in the fridge overnight or defrost in the microwave. Then refer to reheating instructions above.
Tools For This Recipe
Dual-Action Potato Masher– This is the kind that I use, it has 2 sets of heads to ensure that you get the best mash each time, which makes it much easier to avoid over-mashing your potatoes. 4.5 quart enameled cast iron Dutch oven– This is the one that I have and it’s a great size for this recipe. Large Colander– this is the one I have and is perfect for these potatoes.
What to Serve with Homemade Mashed Potatoes
Tried This Recipe?
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