There’s a certain comfort that comes with a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes, isn’t there? The minute you introduce this dish to your table, you’re creating a moment of warmth that brings friends and family closer together. I discovered my passion for the perfect mashed potatoes after trying countless variations, but this recipe is my all-time favorite. It showcases the buttery richness of russet potatoes and the subtle hints of garlic, transforming a simple side dish into the star of the show.

As the holidays approach and gatherings fill up our calendars, having a foolproof mashed potato recipe isn’t just a game-changer—it’s a necessity. These creamy delights are easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to impress at a festive feast, making them the versatile companion to any entrée. Get ready to liven up your dinners and become known for serving the Best Mashed Potatoes—they’re so good, you might want to take a bow when the compliments pour in!

Why are these the Best Mashed Potatoes?

Indulgent Creaminess: This recipe provides an unbelievably creamy texture that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Flavor Boost: Infusing garlic into butter adds a mouthwatering depth that elevates the taste.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll achieve perfect mashed potatoes even if you’re not a seasoned chef.
Versatile Pairing: Ideal for everything from Thanksgiving turkey to everyday weeknight meals, they fit any occasion beautifully.
Make Ahead: Prepare in advance and simply reheat for a stress-free holiday feast. With this ultimate guide to the Best Mashed Potatoes, impress your family and friends with ease!

Best Mashed Potatoes Ingredients

For the Potatoes
• Russet Potatoes – Perfect for a fluffy texture; they absorb flavors beautifully.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes – A delicious substitute for a buttery taste that adds a twist to these Best Mashed Potatoes.

For the Creaminess
• Unsalted Butter – Opt for unsalted for control over seasoning; it enriches the flavor.
• Heavy Cream – Adds a decadent richness; you can swap it for half-and-half if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Sour Cream – Balances the richness with a tangy note; Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier variation.

For Flavor
• Garlic – Fresh garlic provides an aromatic infusion; don’t skip this for the best flavor profile!
• Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; be generous during cooking.

For Serving
• Paprika – Adds a splash of color and a hint of smokiness when garnishing.
• Chopped Parsley – Freshness that lifts the dish, giving a vibrant finish to your creamy creation.

How to Make the Best Mashed Potatoes

Prepare Potatoes: Start by peeling and cutting 3 pounds of russet potatoes into large cubes. Uniform sizes ensure even cooking, so your creamy mashed potatoes will be flawless.
Cook Potatoes: Place the potato cubes in a large stock pot, cover them with water, and season generously with salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 20-25 minutes until fork-tender, ensuring a soft texture.
Infuse Garlic Butter: In a saucepan, melt 1 stick of unsalted butter until the milk solids rise. Remove these solids and add 7 smashed garlic cloves. Cook on low for 15 minutes, allowing the garlic flavor to perfect the butter, then discard the cloves.
Dry Potatoes: Drain the potatoes thoroughly and let them sit briefly. This step is crucial! Letting them sit helps eliminate excess moisture, which is key to creamy mashed potatoes.
Rice Potatoes: Pass the hot, drained potatoes through a ricer back into the pot. This method ensures a fluffy, clump-free texture, elevating your dish above average mashed potatoes.
Mix Ingredients: While the potatoes are still hot, add the infused garlic butter, 3/4 cup of warm heavy cream, and a sprinkle of salt. Mix with a hand mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, just until combined.
Add Sour Cream: Gently incorporate 3/4 cup of sour cream, mixing just until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning, ensuring your mashed potatoes are perfectly seasoned.
Serve: Transfer the creamy mixture to a serving dish. Melt any remaining butter and pour it over the top, then garnish with paprika and chopped parsley for a splash of color.

Optional: Top with crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Best Mashed Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftover Best Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool them completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Smooth out any air pockets to maintain quality.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of heavy cream or butter until creamy. Avoid high heat to prevent drying out.

Make-Ahead: Prepare ahead for convenience; simply refrigerate or freeze, then reheat when ready to serve, making holiday cooking stress-free!

Make Ahead Options

These Best Mashed Potatoes are perfect for making ahead, saving you time on busy days! You can prepare the mashed potatoes up to 24 hours in advance by following the recipe until the mixing stage, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their creamy texture, add a splash of warm heavy cream when reheating. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving, adding more cream or butter as needed to restore consistency. With this method, you’ll have delicious, restaurant-quality Best Mashed Potatoes ready to pair perfectly with your main dish, making your meal planning a breeze!

What to Serve with Best Mashed Potatoes?

Imagine a cozy gathering where creamy mashed potatoes take center stage, surrounded by flavors that make your heart sing.

Roast Turkey: The classic holiday pair, juicy turkey drizzled with gravy elevates the creamy potatoes to new heights.
Prime Rib: Rich and succulent, its robust flavor beautifully balances the indulgence of the mashed potatoes, creating a luxurious experience.
Garlicky Green Beans: Crisp-tender and vibrant, the freshness adds contrast, enhancing the rich, buttery goodness of your mashed creation.
Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: The smokiness and crunch of bacon bring a new texture that delightfully complements the creamy softness of the potatoes.
Herbed Roasted Chicken: Juicy and aromatic, the herbs mingle with the flavors of the mashed potatoes, creating a harmonious medley on your plate.
Creamy Mushroom Gravy: Pour this over your potatoes for an irresistible umami kick that deepens the overall experience of the meal.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce: A touch of tartness cuts through the richness, providing a festive contrast that enhances every bite.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls serve as the perfect vessel for scooping up mashed potatoes and gravy; they’re a must for any feast.

Best Mashed Potatoes Variations

Customize these Best Mashed Potatoes to suit your taste and any occasion!

Herbed Delight: Incorporate fresh chopped herbs like chives or rosemary for a burst of flavor that revives your mashed potatoes.
Roasted Garlic: Swap out fresh garlic for roasted garlic, which adds a sweet, caramelized depth, transforming your dish into a gourmet experience.
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in cheddar or parmesan cheese for added richness; the melted cheese creates a wonderfully gooey and savory treat.
Cream Cheese Twist: Stir in softened cream cheese for an ultra-creamy consistency—this variation takes indulgence to a whole new level.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sriracha for a delightful kick that will surprise and delight spice lovers.
Lighter Option: Replace heavy cream with almond milk or a lighter cream for a healthier take that still feels rich and satisfying.
Bacon Bits: For a savory crunch, fold in crispy, crumbled bacon before serving—this adds a wonderful smokiness and texture.
Sour Cream Substitute: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy taste that’s both delicious and a little healthier.

Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your perfect bowl of comfort!

Expert Tips for the Best Mashed Potatoes

Choose the Right Potatoes: Stick with russet potatoes for the fluffiest texture; avoiding waxy potatoes will prevent gummy mashed potatoes.
Don’t Rush Cooking: Ensure the potatoes are fork-tender before mashing; undercooked potatoes will lead to a starchy texture.
Warm Ingredients: Use warm heavy cream and melted butter to keep the potatoes fluffy. Cold dairy can cause the mash to firm up.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined; overmixing activates starches and can yield gummy potatoes.
Reheat with Care: If making ahead, reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of warm cream to keep the texture of the Best Mashed Potatoes creamy.

Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right potatoes for the best mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! For the best mashed potatoes, I recommend using russet potatoes. They have the perfect starch content that yields an incredibly fluffy texture. If you’re looking for a slightly different flavor, Yukon Gold potatoes can be used, as they offer a creamy and buttery taste. Just remember, avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes or new potatoes, as they can lead to gummy mash.

How should I store leftover mashed potatoes?
Very simply! Store leftover Best Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can affect the texture.

Can I freeze mashed potatoes, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes! Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, smoothing out any air pockets to maintain their quality. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of warm cream or butter for extra creaminess.

What can I do if my mashed potatoes turn out gummy?
Oh no! If your mashed potatoes are gummy, it’s often due to overmixing or using the wrong type of potato. To fix this, if you haven’t already, try ricing them for a fluffier texture. You can also add a little extra warm cream or butter while gently stirring to lighten the texture. In the future, remember to mix just until combined and avoid high-starch potatoes for the softest results.

Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your mashed potatoes up to 2 days in advance. After preparing, let them cool and then store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently over low heat on the stove, adding a little extra cream or butter to help bring back their creamy texture. It’s a great time-saver for holiday meals!

Are there any dietary considerations for mashed potatoes?
Yes! While this recipe is gluten-free as long as no gluten-containing ingredients are added, you should always check your butter and cream labels for potential contamination if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities. Also, those with lactose intolerance can substitute heavy cream and sour cream with lactose-free alternatives or a plant-based cream.