Basic Mashed Potatoes

If you love good, old-fashioned mashed potatoes, this is the perfect recipe. Made with Idaho potatoes, milk, butter, and optional garlic, this go-to recipe for simple, homemade mashed potatoes is a classic holiday dish. Learn how to make mashed potatoes that come out smooth, creamy, and delicious every time. Serve with gravy or extra butter on top.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 20 mins
• Total Time: 35 mins
• Calories: 257 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 2 pounds baking potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled, or to taste (Optional)

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and garlic, lower heat to medium, and simmer until potatoes are tender, 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 2

When the potatoes are almost finished, heat milk and butter in a small saucepan over low heat until butter is melted.

Step 3

Drain potatoes and return to the pot. Slowly add warm milk mixture, blending it in with a potato masher or electric mixer until potatoes are smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.