Mashed Potatoes

🟢 Difficulty Level: Beginner
⏱️ Cooking Time: 10 minutes prep + 30 minutes cook = 40 minutes total
🛒 Ingredients
- 2 lbs. Yukon Gold Potatoes (peeled and quartered)
- Salt & Pepper (for taste)
- 6 Tbsp Butter (cut into small cubes)
- ½ Cup Heavy Cream
- 1 Tbsp Fresh Chives (chopped)
🌱 Vegan Modification: Use plant-based butter and unsweetened oat milk instead of cream.
🍳 Used Equipment
- Large pot (or a saucepan):
- Potato ricer (or food mill) :
- Wooden spoon :
- Knife and cutting board :
- Strainer :
👨🍳 Steps and Instructions
1️⃣ Boil the Potatoes
Place chopped Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with salted water and bring to a boil. Simmer over moderate heat for about 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

2️⃣ Drain and Dry
Drain the potatoes, then return them to the pot. Shake the pot over moderate heat for about 1 minute to remove excess moisture.

3️⃣ Melt the Butter and Cream
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter into the cream over low heat.

4️⃣ Mash the Potatoes
Using a potato ricer or food mill, mash the hot potatoes directly into the saucepan with the melted butter and cream.

5️⃣ Stir and Season
Gently stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until smooth and fluffy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6️⃣ Finish with Chives
Stir in freshly chopped chives for added flavor and a pop of color.

💡 Tips for Best Results
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and buttery flavor.
- Dry the potatoes well before mashing to avoid sogginess.
- Mash while hot for the smoothest, fluffiest texture.
- Avoid overmixing, which can lead to gluey potatoes.
- For extra flavor, infuse the cream with garlic or herbs before mixing in.
This homemade mashed potatoes recipe serves 4 and is the perfect comfort food side dish. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday dinner or a casual weeknight meal, this creamy and fluffy mash never disappoints.
Want to make it vegan? Just swap in plant-based butter and oat milk — it’s just as delicious!