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Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Perfect Mashed Potatoes

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Yukon Gold potatoes meet their destiny in this silky, cloud-like side dish that's been gracing dinner tables since potatoes first arrived in Europe. Our technique elevates simple spuds through roasted garlic for depth, warm cream for luxurious texture, and the French butter-mounting method that creates restaurant-quality richness. A final drizzle of chive oil adds both color and a gentle onion note that makes these mashed potatoes absolutely unforgettable.

Difficulty:★☆☆☆☆(Easy)
Budget:  💰💰
Seasonality:  Year-round

Time & Quantities

Preparation: 20 mins
Cooking: 30 mins
Total: 50 mins
Serves: 6
Preparation-to-Cooking Ratio: 0.67
Balanced prep and cook time.

Method & Ingredients

Required Equipment: Large pot, potato ricer or food mill, small roasting pan, small blender or food processor, wooden spoon

Cooking Method: Boiling, Roasting

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
  • 1 head garlic
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons butter (cold-cubed)
  • Salt and white pepper to taste
  • For chive oil: 1/4 cup fresh chives (chopped)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30 minutes until soft and caramelized.
  2. Meanwhile, place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water by 2 inches. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes - they should break apart easily!
  3. While potatoes cook, make chive oil by blending chives, olive oil, and salt until smooth and bright green. Set aside.
  4. Warm the cream in a small saucepan over low heat - cold cream will cool down your potatoes!
  5. Drain potatoes thoroughly and pass through a ricer or food mill while still hot - this is the secret to lump-free perfection!
  6. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins and mash into a paste.
  7. Gradually mix the warm cream into the riced potatoes, then fold in the roasted garlic paste.
  8. Now for the French technique: gradually whisk in cold butter cubes one at a time until melted and incorporated - this creates incredible richness!
  9. Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
  10. Serve immediately drizzled with chive oil for a restaurant-worthy presentation that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Storage & Make-Ahead

Storage Advice: Best served immediately, but can be kept warm in a slow cooker on warm setting for up to 2 hours. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips: Can be made ahead and frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat gently with extra cream if needed.

Nutritional & Dietary Information

Nutritional Information:

  • Calories: 325
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 18g (Saturated: 10g)
  • Carbohydrates: 38g (Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 3g)
  • Vitamin A: 15% DV
  • Vitamin C: 35% DV
  • Calcium: 8% DV
  • Iron: 6% DV

Allergen Information: Contains dairy (cream, butter)

Dietary Information: Gluten-free but contains dairy. Not suitable for dairy-free or vegan diets.

Serving & Variations

Serving Suggestions: Serve in a warmed bowl with an extra pat of butter and the chive oil drizzle. Perfect alongside roasted meats or as a comfort food base for any meal.

Wine or Drink Pairing: Pair with full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley or Bordeaux from France. The richness can handle bold wines beautifully.

Possible Recipe Variations: Add cream cheese for extra tang, substitute buttermilk for lighter texture, or fold in bacon bits and cheddar for loaded mashed potatoes. Horseradish adds a nice kick.

Additional Notes: A ricer or food mill is essential for perfectly smooth texture. Warm cream prevents the potatoes from cooling down and helps absorption.

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