Sides · Thanksgiving, Christmas
The Potatoes Everyone Came For
Creamy mashed potatoes that are buttery, uncomplicated, and ready for gravy—a dependable Thanksgiving or Christmas side dish built for a crowded holiday table.
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 25 min
- Total
- 40 min
- Serves
- 8 side servings
The recipe card
The Potatoes Everyone Came For
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 25 min
- Total
- 40 min
- Serves
- 8 side servings
Ingredients
- 3 lb (1.4 kg) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into even chunks
- 6 tbsp (85 g) butter
- 3/4 cup (180 ml) whole milk, warmed, plus more if needed
- 1 tsp fine salt, plus salt for the cooking water
- Black pepper to taste
Method
- Put potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Salt the water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes, until a fork slides easily through the largest pieces. Drain well.
- Return potatoes to the warm pot off the heat for a minute to release steam. Mash or rice them, then fold in butter.
- Add warm milk gradually until the texture suits you. Season with salt and pepper and serve hot.
Make Ahead
Up to 2 days ahead: make the potatoes completely, cool, and refrigerate covered. Or peel and cut the potatoes the morning of and hold them covered in cold water in the fridge for up to 24 hours. For a stovetop-free day, keep finished potatoes warm in a slow cooker on low for up to 2 to 3 hours, stirring in a splash of warm milk now and then.
Storage and Reheating
Storage: Refrigerate covered up to 4 days. They freeze reasonably well for up to 1 month; expect a slightly looser texture, and stir in warm milk and butter when reheating.
Reheating: Stovetop: low heat with a splash of milk, stirring often. Oven: buttered dish, covered with foil, 350°F for 25 to 35 minutes, until 165°F in the center. Microwave in short bursts, stirring between.
Make It a Meal
Goes well with:
