Classic Fluffy Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Classic fluffy mashed potatoes are a comforting side dish perfect for any meal. With a creamy texture and light, buttery flavor, this recipe will help you achieve perfectly smooth and airy potatoes every time.

Ingredients

• 4 potatoes
• 6 tablespoons salted butter
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Salt, to taste
• Ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into quarters. Place them in a bowl of water and soak for 20 minutes.
2. Step 2: Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a large pot. Cover with cold water by about 3 inches and add a generous sprinkle of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until tender when poked with a fork, about 45 minutes.
3. Step 3: Drain the cooked potatoes in a colander.
4. Step 4: While still hot, mash the potatoes using a potato masher or ricer until smooth.
5. Step 5: In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk and salted butter until the butter melts.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the baking powder over the mashed potatoes.
7. Step 7: Pour the warm milk and butter mixture over the potatoes.
8. Step 8: Mix everything together until well combined.
9. Step 9: Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste.
10. Step 10: Serve immediately and enjoy your fluffy mashed potatoes!

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, substitute half the milk with heavy cream or sour cream.
• Use a potato ricer for the smoothest texture and to avoid lumps.
• Add roasted garlic or chives for a flavorful twist.

Storage

Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold work best for fluffy mashed potatoes due to their texture.

Why is baking powder added to mashed potatoes?

Baking powder helps lighten the texture, making the mashed potatoes fluffier and more airy.

Classic Fluffy Mashed Potatoes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 54 reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Classic Fluffy Mashed Potatoes made with butter, milk, and a touch of baking powder for extra fluffiness. This comforting side dish features tender boiled potatoes mashed to perfection and seasoned with salt and pepper, perfect for any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Potatoes

• 4 large potatoes

Dairy

• 6 tablespoons salted butter
• 3/4 cup milk

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• salt to taste
• ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare Potatoes: Wash and peel the 4 potatoes, then cut them into quarters. Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of water and let them soak for 20 minutes to remove excess starch.
2. Boil Potatoes: Drain the soaked potatoes and transfer them to a large pot. Cover the potatoes with cold water, about 3 inches above them. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then cook the potatoes until tender when pierced with a fork, approximately 45 minutes.
3. Drain Potatoes: Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander set in the sink.
4. Mash Potatoes: While the potatoes are still hot, use a potato masher or ricer to mash them until smooth and fluffy.
5. Heat Butter and Milk: In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the 3/4 cup milk and 6 tablespoons of salted butter until the butter melts completely.
6. Add Baking Powder: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of baking powder over the mashed potatoes and gently fold it in to help improve the fluffiness.
7. Combine Ingredients: Pour the hot milk and butter mixture over the mashed potatoes.
8. Mix Thoroughly: Stir everything together until well combined and creamy.
9. Season: Add salt and ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as desired.
10. Serve: Serve the mashed potatoes warm as a comforting side dish and enjoy!

Notes

• Soaking the potatoes helps remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier mashed potatoes.
• Using baking powder is a unique trick to add extra fluffiness.
• Ensure potatoes are drained well to prevent watery mashed potatoes.
• Warm the milk and butter mixture before adding it to the potatoes to keep the mashed potatoes hot and smooth.
• Feel free to adjust butter and milk quantities to your desired creaminess and richness.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: mashed potatoes, classic mashed potatoes, fluffy mashed potatoes, comfort food, potato side dish