Are you ready to transform the humble potato into a cloud-like, luxuriously creamy side dish that will have your dinner guests swooning? Our ultimate Mashed Potatoes with Cream recipe is not just another potato recipe—it's a culinary masterpiece that combines simple ingredients with professional cooking techniques to create the most decadent, smooth, and absolutely irresistible mashed potatoes you've ever tasted. Get ready to elevate your home cooking and become the ultimate potato maestro!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by selecting your potatoes. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for making creamy mashed potatoes. Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform chunks, roughly 1 to 2 inches in size. This ensures even cooking.
- Place the cut potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water, which will help season the potatoes as they cook.
- Bring the pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. You can test this by poking a piece with a fork; it should easily break apart.
- While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the heavy cream and butter mixture. In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and butter. Heat over low heat until the butter is melted and the cream is warm, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and let them sit for a minute to allow excess moisture to evaporate. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Transfer the drained potatoes back to the pot or to a large mixing bowl. Begin mashing the potatoes using a potato masher, ricer, or fork until they reach your desired level of smoothness. Avoid over-mashing, as this can make the potatoes gummy.
- Gradually pour the warm cream and butter mixture into the mashed potatoes while continuing to mix. Stir until the potatoes are creamy and well combined. You can adjust the amount of cream based on your preference for creaminess.
- Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your preference. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Once seasoned, taste the mashed potatoes and make any necessary adjustments. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can add more butter or cream at this stage.
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. For a touch of elegance, you can create a small well in the center and add a pat of butter, allowing it to melt into the warm potatoes.
- Serve the mashed potatoes immediately, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley if desired. Enjoy your creamy, buttery mashed potatoes as a perfect side dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Potato: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are your best bet for creamy, fluffy results.
- Size Matters: Cut potatoes into uniform chunks to ensure even cooking.
- Start with Cold Water: Always begin cooking potatoes in cold, salted water to help them cook evenly and season from within.
- Avoid Waterlogged Potatoes: Let potatoes drain completely after boiling to prevent watery mashed potatoes.
- Warm Your Cream and Butter: Heating the cream and butter before adding helps them incorporate more smoothly.
- Don't Overmix: Mash gently to prevent a gluey texture. A few small lumps are perfectly acceptable!
- Taste and Adjust: Always season gradually and taste as you go to achieve the perfect flavor balance.
- Serve Immediately: Mashed potatoes are best enjoyed hot and fresh, so time your preparation to serve right away.Pro Tip: For an extra luxurious touch, try adding roasted garlic, chives, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to take your mashed potatoes from great to extraordinary!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 65mg
