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Classic Creamy Mashed Potatoes With Herb Butter Recipe

Dive into the ultimate comfort food experience with these Classic Creamy Mashed Potatoes, enriched with a fragrant herb butter. This dish elevates a beloved classic to new heights, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for potatoes)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for herb butter)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons chives, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into roughly 1.5 to 2-inch uniform chunks. Rinse under cold water to remove excess starch.
  2. Boil the Potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Drain and Dry: Thoroughly drain the potatoes in a colander. Return the hot, drained potatoes to the pot over low heat for 1-2 minutes to evaporate remaining moisture.
  4. Mash the Potatoes: Use a potato ricer or sturdy hand masher to mash the potatoes until no large lumps remain.
  5. Add Dairy and Butter: In a small saucepan, gently warm the whole milk and heavy cream until just steamy. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the hot potatoes and mash until melted. Gradually pour in the warm milk and cream, mixing until desired creaminess is achieved.
  6. Season and Taste: Season the mashed potatoes generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Soften the Butter: Ensure the remaining 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter are at room temperature.
  8. Chop the Herbs and Garlic: Finely chop the fresh parsley, chives, and thyme or rosemary. Mince the garlic.
  9. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped herbs, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined.
  10. Season the Herb Butter: Add a pinch of salt and a good grind of fresh black pepper to the herb butter and mix again.
  11. Assemble: Spoon the warm, creamy mashed potatoes into a serving bowl and dollop the herb butter on top.
  12. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle extra fresh herbs over the top and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Keywords: Avoid over-mashing the potatoes to prevent a gluey texture. Always warm your dairy before adding it to the potatoes for better incorporation.