Want to know the secret to the best mashed potatoes? Keep it simple, no fancy ingredients - just the right ratio of butter, cream and salt.
Prep Time15mins
Cook Time1hr5mins
Total Time1hr20mins
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American Classic
Keyword: make ahead mashed potatoes, mashed potatoes
Servings: 8servings
Calories: 340kcal
Author: Kristin
Ingredients
4poundsRusset Potatoesabout 8 medium
Salt
1/2cupbutter1 stick
3/4cupmilk
1/2cupheavy cream
Kosher salt
1/4teaspoonpepper
fresh minced parsleyfor garnish, if desired
Instructions
In a 5 quart pot, boil about 2 inches of water. Once boiling, add 1 tablespoon of salt.
While the water is coming to a boil, rinse, peel and dice potatoes into one inch chunks. Place potatoes into boiling water and cover with the lid. (Water should be enough to cover the potatoes). Cook over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are fork tender.
Remove from heat and drain. Place potatoes back into the pan and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt. Mash several times with a potato masher.
In a small saucepan, add butter with milk, cream, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and place over medium-low heat until butter is melted. Reserve 1/4 cup and set aside. (Or melt in the microwave).
Pour the half of the butter mixture over the mashed potatoes and mix well. Add more of the butter mixture until potatoes are light and fluffy.
Pour potatoes into a greased 9"x13" pan. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
When you are ready to bake:
Pour remaining butter mixture over the top of the potatoes (you may need to melt in the microwave). Bake uncovered in a preheated 350 degree oven for 40-45 minutes. Stir before serving, if desired.
*If baking immediately (while potatoes are still hot), reduce baking time.
Notes
This recipe will make anywhere from 8 to 12 people, depending on portion size. If serving a lot of sides such as for Thanksgiving dinner, they will go a little further.Storage: Once potatoes are completely cooled, store then in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.Freezing: Stored completely cooled in a freezer safe container for up to 4 months.Reheating: If frozen, thaw completely in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the microwave, or cover with foil and heat in the oven at 375 degrees.