Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsWeft & Warp Art Bar + KitchenHomestyle Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Homestyle Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Time45m
Serves6

GF/V

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Ingredients

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Potatoes & base

If making dairy-free (optional substitutions)

Method

Prep & cooking potatoes

  1. 1

    Prepare potatoes

    Place peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Add 1 teaspoon kosher salt to the water. Starting with cold water ensures even cooking.

  2. 2

    Boil

    Bring the pot to a gentle boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 12–18 minutes depending on cube size. Test by piercing the largest pieces; they should offer almost no resistance.

  3. 3

    Optional garlic

    If using garlic, add the whole peeled cloves to the pot with the potatoes so they cook and soften along with the potatoes for a subtle garlic flavor.

  4. 4

    Drain and steam-dry

    Drain potatoes (and garlic) in a colander. Return them to the still-warm pot and set over low heat for 1–2 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally to evaporate excess moisture. This step prevents watery mashed potatoes.

Making the mashed potatoes

  1. 5

    Warm the milk and melt the butter

    In a small saucepan (or microwave-safe cup), gently warm the milk with the butter and the remaining 1 teaspoon salt until the butter melts and the mixture is just warm — do not boil. If using cream cheese, add it to the warm milk mixture so it softens and blends easily. For dairy-free, warm the oat/almond milk with vegan butter or use olive oil.

  2. 6

    Mash potatoes

    Using a potato ricer or a sturdy masher, press the potatoes (and garlic, if used) into the pot or a large bowl until mostly smooth. For the creamiest texture, use a ricer or food mill; for a more rustic texture, use a hand masher and leave some small lumps.

  3. 7

    Add warm dairy and season

    Gradually pour the warm milk-butter (and cream cheese, if used) into the mashed potatoes, stirring gently with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula after each addition. Continue until you reach the desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with the remaining salt and freshly ground black pepper.

  4. 8

    Finish and serve

    Transfer mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Top with a pat of butter if desired and sprinkle with chopped fresh chives. Keep warm until serving. If the potatoes thicken while waiting, stir in a tablespoon of warm milk at a time to loosen.

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