Ingredients
To make delicious creamy mashed potatoes, you will need potatoes (2 pounds/1kg); a teaspoon of salt; 3 tablespoons of butter; 2 tablespoons of sour cream; 1/2 cup of whole milk; 1/4 cup of cream cheese; freshly ground pepper to taste and a handful of parsley.
Process of Making Mashed Potatoes
For the best results, it’s important to choose the right potatoes. The secret behind delicious mashed potatoes lies in using very starchy potatoes, such as Russet potatoes. Start by peeling and chopping the potatoes into small, equal-sized pieces. Next, place the potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with cold water before adding some salt.
Bring the water to a rapid boil over high heat and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 7-10 minutes -or until potatoes are fork tender. Next, drain the potatoes but do not rinse them. Then, return the potatoes to the saucepan and heat over low heat for 2 minutes to remove any excess moisture. Place the cooked potatoes in a large bowl and add the butter, sour cream, cream cheese, milk and pepper. Using a whisk, mash the potatoes until desired consistency. Heat the mashed potatoes for 1 minute on low heat, stirring constantly. Lastly, add parsley for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Creamy Mashed Potatoes With Milk
Now that your creamy mashed potatoes are ready, it’s time to serve the dish. For best results, serve your creamy mashed potatoes with a side of gravy, hot sauce or vegetables. For a more decadent experience, sprinkle some parmesan cheese or bacon bits over the mashed potatoes. You can also stir in some cheese for an even richer flavor. Another great topping is toasted bread crumbs. The possibilities are endless!
Tips for Making Perfectly Creamy Mashed Potatoes
To make the perfectly creamy mashed potatoes, it’s important to add the right ingredients in the right amount. Start by using only a small amount of butter and milk. Too much butter, milk or cream cheese will leave you with a soupy, greasy mash. Also, be sure to mix in the ingredients very slowly and thoroughly. This will ensure that your potatoes are creamy and smooth.
Be sure to not over-mash your potatoes, either. Over-mashing will cause the potatoes to become gluey. This is a sign that the potatoes have been overworked and the starches have been broken down. To prevent this, gently mash the potatoes and stop as soon as the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
Popular Variations of Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes with milk are just one of the many variations of mashed potatoes. Other popular options include classic mashed potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes and garlic mashed potatoes. In addition, you can also make mashed potatoes with different kinds of dairy such as cream or half and half. Finally, there are also dairy-free and vegan versions of mashed potatoes that are made with vegan butter and plant-based milk.
Health Benefits of Mashed Potatoes
In addition to being a delicious side dish, mashed potatoes are also full of minerals and vitamins. Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium and dietary fiber. Additionally, potatoes are naturally low in fat and sodium. This makes them a healthier alternative to other options such as French fries. The dairy-products that are normally added to mashed potatoes – such as milk, butter and cream cheese – add additional nutritional benefits such as protein and healthy fats.
Preparation of Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time
If you want to make mashed potatoes ahead of time, there are a few options available. You can either keep them in the refrigerator or freeze them. To freeze the potatoes, transfer them to an air-tight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the potatoes in the refrigerator and then heat them in the microwave or on the stove. You can also prepare mashed potatoes and freeze them in individual-sized portions, which makes them perfect for quick meals.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To store mashed potatoes in the refrigerator, transfer them to an airtight container or a zip-type plastic bag. To reheat mashed potatoes, place them in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 1-2 minutes. You can also reheat mashed potatoes on the stove, by placing them in a non-stick saucepan over low-medium heat. Stir often, until heated through.
