Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food.

Soft, creamy, and full of flavor, they're the side dish that can elevate any meal, whether it's a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner.

But, let's face it—making mashed potatoes that are perfectly smooth and flavorful isn't always as easy as it sounds. Don't worry, though. With a few simple steps, you'll have mashed potatoes that taste just like the ones from your favorite restaurant.

1. Choose the Right Potatoes

The foundation of great mashed potatoes starts with selecting the right type of potato. The best potatoes for mashing are starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds. These potatoes break down easily, creating a smooth texture.

Why Russets?

• Russet potatoes are high in starch and low in moisture, giving you that fluffy, creamy texture everyone loves.

• Yukon Golds, on the other hand, have a slightly buttery flavor and a creamier texture, making them ideal if you like a richer, denser mash.

Tip: Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes or fingerlings, as they don't break down as easily and may leave you with a gluey mash.

2. Prep the Potatoes

Before you start cooking, make sure you prep your potatoes properly. Start by peeling them, but if you prefer a rustic mash, leaving the skins on is totally fine. Just be sure to scrub them well if you keep the skins.

Steps to prepare:

1. Peel the potatoes (or leave the skins on if preferred).

2. Cut them into evenly sized chunks (about 1–2 inches) to ensure they cook evenly.

3. Place them in a pan and cover with cold water. Starting with cold water helps the potatoes cook more evenly.

Tip: Add a pinch of salt to the water to help season the potatoes as they cook.

3. Cook the Potatoes

Once your potatoes are prepped and in the saucepan, it's time to cook them. Bring the pan of potatoes to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.

Cooking time:

• Boil the potatoes for 12–15 minutes or until they are fork-tender. A fork should easily slide through the potatoes when they're ready.

Tip: Don't overcook the potatoes! You want them tender, but not falling apart. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don't get mushy.

4. Drain and Dry the Potatoes

After your potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and return them to the saucepan. Here's where an often-overlooked step makes a big difference—drying the potatoes.

Why dry them?

Excess water can make your mashed potatoes watery, so it's important to remove as much moisture as possible.

How to dry them:

1. After draining the potatoes, let them sit in the pan for a minute or two.

2. You can also return the pan to the stovetop over low heat for 1–2 minutes to gently steam off any remaining water.

5. Mash with Care

Now comes the fun part—mashing! You can use a potato masher, a ricer, or even a food mill, depending on your preference. A potato masher gives a slightly chunkier texture, while a ricer will give you an ultra-smooth mash.

Steps:

1. Mash the potatoes using your preferred method. If you like a smoother texture, consider using a ricer.

2. Mash until you reach your desired consistency—smooth and fluffy, or a bit more rustic.

Tip: Don't over-mash! Overworking the potatoes can turn them gluey, so mash just enough to break them up.

6. Add the Creaminess

This is where mashed potatoes get their richness and flavor. The key is to add just the right amount of butter, milk, or cream. If you want to go the extra mile, you can even add sour cream or cream cheese for an extra creamy finish.

Ingredients to add:

• 4 tablespoons of butter (or more, depending on how rich you want it)

• 1/2 cup of whole milk (you can use cream for a richer texture)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Stir in the butter until it's fully melted and incorporated.

2. Slowly add the milk, a little at a time, until the mashed potatoes are as creamy as you like.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tip: Warm the milk before adding it to the potatoes—it helps the mashed potatoes stay smooth and creamy.

7. Customize Your Mash

While classic mashed potatoes are amazing on their own, feel free to experiment and add extra flavor. Here are a few ideas:

Flavor Add-ins:

• Roasted garlic for a rich, savory touch.

• Fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a burst of freshness.

• Grated cheese like Parmesan or cheddar for extra flavor.

Steps:

1. Stir your add-ins into the mashed potatoes after they've been fully mashed and seasoned.

2. Mix gently so you don't break down the potatoes too much.

Conclusion: The Perfect Mash Every Time

Making mashed potatoes doesn't have to be complicated. With the right potatoes, careful cooking, and the right amount of butter and milk, you can create a dish that's creamy, flavorful, and a crowd-pleaser. Whether you stick to the classic version or get creative with flavor additions, mashed potatoes are a timeless comfort food that's always worth the effort. So next time you're making dinner, try out these simple steps for the perfect mashed potatoes—you won't be disappointed!