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Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Watch a foolproof method for making the ultimate comfort food. See more

READY IN 40 mins

Chef John's Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Read Reviews (94)

"This recipe will hopefully give you the proper techniques to turn out perfect mashed potatoes every time; always light, fluffy and lump-free." — Chef John

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Original recipe makes 4 servings Change Servings

3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut in half lengthwise
1/4 cup butter

1/2 cup whole milk
salt and ground black pepper to taste

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Directions

Place the potatoes into a large pot, and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until tender, 20 to 25 minutes. Drain, and return the potatoes to the pot. Turn heat to high, and allow the potatoes to dry for about 30 seconds. Turn off the heat.
Mash the potatoes with a potato masher twice around the pot, then add the butter and milk. Continue to mash until smooth and fluffy. Whisk in the salt and black pepper until evenly distributed, about 15 seconds.

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PREP 20 mins
COOK 20 mins
READY IN 40 mins

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Classic! This is THE method to use for really good mashed potatoes. It is essential to add salt to the cooking water - oh and start with cool water - bring to temp and then reduce the heat so the water just simmers, not boils. This way the taters cook evenly. Thanks for posting this Chef John.

—Baking Nana

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Most Helpful Critical Review

Dec 24, 2012

These potatoes come out well (and the instructions make them very easy to make), but they are bland. I learned the hard way that my family expects more to mashed potatoes. If you like good, old fashioned "just potatoes" then this is definitely the recipe for you.

—mknoblock

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138 Ratings

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Nov 24, 2011

Thank you to Chef John for making the video. I couldn't figure out why I kept getting starchy water until he explained the method of cutting the potatoes lengthwise vs. cutting into cubes. I ran out of whole milk, so I used buttermilk. Plus, to make them extra creamy, I added 3 tbs. of sour cream. By making those adjustments to the recipe, I'll just say that they were such a hit at thanksgiving dinner, all we had to take home was the container I brought them to dinner in!

—Colonel Korn

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Nov 27, 2011

Fluffy, flavorful clouds in my mouth. And so easy. Followed exactly except used 1% milk (was on hand). As for the masher, my sister has our Mother's which he recommends, so I used mine which he doesn't like. Still, the potatoes were wonderful!!! His video shows the techniques very clearly. Find at foodwishes.com.

—brunosmom21

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Feb 22, 2012

Thank you Chef John! I got so tired of watery mashed potatoes that I started buying the Bob Evans in the refrigerated area of the grocery. My husband couldn't believe it, I told him I had yet to make any better than Bob. That is until now! I made these last night with some country steak and gravy and they were delicious! I did just as the recipe called except I only had 2% milk so that is what I used. Luckily I already had the right potato masher and not one of those other weird looking objects that Chef John was showing in the video NOT to use! Thanks again, I'm planning on making your mushroom gravy this evening to have with some more mashed potatoes and meatloaf! We can't wait!

—Kelly

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Nov 24, 2011

Have been making MP Chef John's way ever since I saw his video several years ago. Perfect fluffy clouds of potato heaven every time. If you are rice challenged check out his site for perfect rice.

—PAMELA D. aPROpos of nothing

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Nov 21, 2011

Just one more great recipe from Chef John. I love this guy!

—Bryced32

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Apr 25, 2012

This really is the simplest and tastiest way to make mashed potatoes. I like to use warmed evaporated milk instead of whole milk. This recipe makes the fluffiest potatoes. NOTE: This is also good with a couple cloves of homemade roasted garlic.

—Sarah Jo

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Nutrition

Calories
333 kcal
17%

Carbohydrates
49.7 g
16%

Cholesterol
34 mg
11%

Fat
12.7 g
20%

Fiber
6.1 g
24%

Protein
6.7 g
13%

Sodium
127 mg
5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Nutritional Information

Chef John's Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Serving Size: 1/4 of a recipe
Servings Per Recipe: 4
Amount Per Serving
Calories: 333
Calories from Fat: 115

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 12.7g 20 %
Saturated Fat 7.9g 40 %
Cholesterol 34mg 11 %
Sodium 127mg 5 %
Potassium 1212mg 34 %
Total Carbohydrates 49.7g 16 %
Dietary Fiber 6.1g 24 %
Protein 6.7g 13 %
Sugars 3.5g
Vitamin A 8 %
Vitamin C 91 %
Calcium 9 %
Iron 22 %
Thiamin 26 %
Niacin 37 %
Vitamin B6 52 %
Magnesium 24 %
Folate 26 %

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.