Angie's Perfect Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Welcome Back!

Thanks for returning for the next staple dish at the Rouse Family's Table.

There's nothing quite like the comfort of creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes. Whether it's a holiday feast or a weekday dinner, this classic side dish can elevate any meal.

Back when I was a young mother, potatoes were an affordable staple in our home. They were filling and versatile, making them a go-to for meals. My children especially loved dishes that didn’t require much chewing, so smaller meat portions with a generous serving of potatoes and fresh vegetables became our norm. As we approach the holiday season, it's wise to include a dish that's both dependable and easy to prepare. I recommend making mashed potatoes a centerpiece for your holiday table, just as I do for mine.

Follow these steps to create the perfect mashed potatoes that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes

• 1 cup of whole milk or Lactose

• 1/2 cup of heavy cream

• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• Optional: garlic cloves, chives, or sour cream for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Prep the Potatoes:

   • Begin by peeling and cutting the potatoes into even chunks. This ensures they cook evenly.

   • Place the potato pieces in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt.

2. Cook the Potatoes:

   • Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

3. Warm the Dairy:

   • While the potatoes are cooking, heat the milk and cream together in a small saucepan until warm. This helps to incorporate the dairy smoothly into the potatoes.

4. Mash the Potatoes:

   • Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or ricer for a smoother texture.

   • Add the butter, allowing it to melt into the hot potatoes.

5. Incorporate the Dairy:

   • Gradually add the warm milk and cream mixture, mashing and stirring until the potatoes reach your desired consistency. For ultra-creamy potatoes, use an electric mixer on low speed.

6. Season and Serve:

   • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

   • For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic, freshly chopped chives, or a dollop of sour cream.

   • Serve immediately, garnished with a pat of butter or a sprinkle of herbs if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Use starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet for the fluffiest results.

• Don’t overmix to avoid gluey potatoes.

• Warm your dairy products before adding to keep the potatoes creamy and smooth.

Enjoy these perfect mashed potatoes, and watch as they become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Let me know if this works for your family, see you next week.