Go Back
+ servings
bowl of perfect mashed potatoes

Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Flavorful mashed potatoes with a smooth texture for the best side dish for holiday meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds russet potatoes washed, peeled and cut into large chunks
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick) room temperature
  • 1 cup half-and-half warmed
  • kosher salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Place potatoes in a large Dutch oven and cover with 1-inch cold water.
  • Bring to a boil over high heat. Add a large pinch of salt.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until potatoes are tender. Test by inserting a paring knife into the potatoes. There should be very little resistance. Should take about 20 minutes.
  • Drain the potatoes in a colander. Return the potatoes to the Dutch oven and allow to dry for a few minutes.
  • Over a large bowl, spoon a small amount of potatoes into the hopper of a ricer. Press them through the ricer. Add potatoes back into Dutch oven. Repeat until all the potatoes have been riced.
  • Stir unsalted butter into potatoes, tablespoon by tablespoon, with a wooden spoon, until smooth.
  • Gently stir in warmed half-and-half until fully incorporated.
  • Add salt and pepper to taste.
Keyword best mashed potatoes, mashed potatoes, perfect mashed potatoes, Thanksgiving side dish
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!