Mashed Potatoes

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Originally proposed by Alice on Feb 18, 2026

Wikimedia photo of Mashed potato

Source: Wikimedia

Mashed potato or mashed potatoes, colloquially known as mash, is a dish made by mashing boiled or steamed potatoes, usually with added milk, butter, salt, and pepper. It is generally served as a side dish to meat or vegetables. Roughly mashed potatoes are sometimes called smashed potatoes. Dehydrated instant mashed potatoes and frozen mashed potatoes are available. Mashed potatoes are an ingredient in other dishes, such as dumplings and gnocchi.

Source: Wikipedia (Mashed potato)

Starch gelatinization and fat enrichment create a silky texture.

Smooth and rich classic mash.

Ingredients

  • 2 lb Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chunked
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup whole milk or cream, warmed
  • 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Method

  1. Cut potatoes into even chunks and start them in cold salted water.
  2. Bring to a simmer and cook until fully tender, 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. Drain thoroughly, then return to the hot pot for 1 minute to drive off moisture.
  4. Mash and fold in warm butter and cream until smooth but still light.
  5. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Why These Techniques Work

Browse techniques

Warming dairy before adding

Why it works: Warm fat incorporates more evenly and preserves texture.

Why this recipe uses it: Cold dairy can tighten mash and mute flavor.

Heat staging and carryover control

Why it works: Managing burner intensity and resting windows prevents overshoot from residual heat after active cooking.

Why this recipe uses it: This sequence relies on brief finishing steps where controlled carryover keeps texture and flavor balanced.

Recipe facts

Cuisine
American
Type
Side
Difficulty
Easy
Total time
35 minutes
Servings
6 servings
Tools
Chef's knife, Cutting board, Measuring cups and spoons

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