Description

Craving the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any meal? Mashed Potatoes, with their creamy texture and rich flavor, are a classic side dish that never fails to please. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars from 288 reviews, this easy recipe uses golden creamer potatoes, heavy cream, and a touch of chives for a crowd-pleasing result

Ingredients

Scale

Mashed Potatoes use simple ingredients for a rich, flavorful result. Here’s what you’ll need for 6-8 servings:

4 pounds golden creamer potatoes, peeled and cut into quarters: The creamy, starchy base.
1 bay leaf: Adds subtle aromatic flavor.
2 tablespoons kosher salt: For boiling, enhances potato flavor.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
2 cups heavy cream: Creates a rich, velvety texture.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and smoothness.
2 tablespoons chopped chives: Provides a fresh, mild oniony finish.

Why These Ingredients Matter

Golden Creamer Potatoes: Naturally creamy and less starchy than russets, perfect for smooth mash.
Heavy Cream and Butter: Ensure a luxurious, velvety texture.
Bay Leaf: Infuses a subtle depth during boiling.
Chives: Add a fresh, colorful garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold for similar creaminess or russets for a fluffier texture.
Heavy Cream: Swap with half-and-half for a lighter dish or plant-based cream for vegan.
Butter: Replace with plant-based butter or olive oil for vegan.
Chives: Substitute with green onions, parsley, or omit for a simpler flavor.
Bay Leaf: Omit if unavailable; add a pinch of dried thyme for similar depth.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based cream and butter; ensure salt is vegan-friendly.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Flavor Variations:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add 2 roasted garlic cloves to the mash.
- Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Mix in 1 cup grated cheddar or Parmesan.
- Herb Mashed Potatoes: Add 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary or thyme.
- Spicy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in ½ teaspoon cayenne or 1 tablespoon horseradish.
- Truffle Mashed Potatoes: Drizzle with 1 teaspoon truffle oil before serving.

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Instructions

Step 1: Gather and Prep

Gather all ingredients: 4 pounds golden creamer potatoes, 1 bay leaf, 2 tablespoons kosher salt, 2 cups heavy cream, 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons chopped chives, salt, and pepper.
Peel and quarter potatoes.
Chop chives finely.

Tip: Cut potatoes evenly for consistent cooking; keep in water to prevent browning.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Place 4 pounds potatoes in a large pot with 1 bay leaf and 2 tablespoons kosher salt.
Cover with cold water (about 1 inch above potatoes).
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
Drain well and remove the bay leaf.

Tip: Test tenderness with a fork; potatoes should break apart easily but not be mushy.

Step 3: Heat Cream and Butter

In a small saucepan, heat 2 cups heavy cream and 3 tablespoons unsalted butter over low heat until warm (do not boil).

Tip: Warm gently to avoid scorching; stir occasionally for even melting.

Step 4: Mash and Mix

Pass the cooked potatoes through a ricer or food mill into a large bowl for a smooth texture (or use a potato masher for a slightly chunkier result).
Gradually add the warm cream-butter mixture, mixing with a spoon until smooth.
Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Fold in 2 tablespoons chopped chives.

Tip: Mix gently to maintain fluffiness; avoid overmixing to prevent gumminess.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot, about ¾-1 cup per serving.
Pair with herb-roasted turkey breast, balsamic-roasted Brussels sprouts, or perfect cranberry sauce.

Tip: Keep warm in a covered dish or low oven (200°F) if not serving immediately.