How to Cook the Perfect Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that can elevate any Thanksgiving dinner. With their creamy texture and buttery flavor, they are the perfect accompaniment to turkey and gravy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the perfect mashed potatoes that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds of Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (about 4-6 medium-sized potatoes)

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 1/2 to 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream (adjust based on desired creaminess)

– Salt (to taste)

– Black pepper (to taste)

– Optional add-ins: garlic, sour cream, cream cheese, or herbs (such as chives or parsley) for extra flavor

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes:

– Start by selecting the right potatoes. Russets are starchy and yield fluffy mashed potatoes, while Yukon Golds offer a creamy texture.

– Peel the potatoes, and then cut them into evenly sized chunks (about 1.5 inches) to ensure they cook uniformly.

  1. Boil the Potatoes:

– Place the peeled and cut potatoes into a large pot. Cover them with cold water, adding a generous pinch of salt (this helps flavor the potatoes).

– Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.

  1. Drain and Dry:

– Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully drain them in a colander. Return the drained potatoes to the pot and place them back over low heat for a minute or two. This step helps evaporate any excess moisture, ensuring your mashed potatoes won’t be watery.

  1. Mash the Potatoes:

– While the potatoes are still hot, use a potato masher, ricer, or food mill to mash them. Avoid using a food processor or blender; this can lead to gummy potatoes due to over-mixing.

– For a creamy texture, be gentle and mash until there are no lumps, but be careful not to overwork them.

  1. Add Butter and Cream:

– Add the unsalted butter to the warm, mashed potatoes. Start with 4 tablespoons and gradually mix it in until melted and fully incorporated.

– Next, pour in the milk or heavy cream, starting with half a cup. Stir gently to combine, adding more milk as needed until you reach your desired consistency.

  1. Season:

– Taste your mashed potatoes and season with salt and black pepper. Don’t be afraid to add more butter for richness or other seasonings to enhance flavor.

  1. Optional Add-Ins:

– For extra flavor, consider adding roasted garlic (about 1-2 cloves), sour cream for tanginess, or cream cheese for richness. Fresh herbs, such as chopped chives or parsley, can also add a delightful touch.

  1. Keep Warm Until Serving:

– If you’re not serving the mashed potatoes immediately, keep them warm by placing a lid on the pot or transferring them to a slow cooker set on low. You can add a bit more milk or cream to maintain creaminess before serving.

  1. Serve:

– Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish, and if desired, top with a pat of butter or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Serve alongside your Thanksgiving turkey and gravy.

Tips for the Perfect Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes

– Choose Quality Potatoes: Fresh, high-quality potatoes make a difference.

– Don’t Over-Whip: Remember to mash gently to avoid a gluey texture.

– Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different ingredients to tweak the flavor profile to your liking.

– Make Ahead: You can peel and cut the potatoes a day in advance, or prepare the mashed potatoes and keep them warm in a slow cooker until ready to serve.

Conclusion

With these steps, you’re on your way to mastering the art of making perfect Thanksgiving mashed potatoes that will delight your family and friends. Creamy, buttery, and packed with flavor, these mashed potatoes will undoubtedly become the star of your holiday spread.