2 lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled & cubed)
½ cup whole milk or heavy cream (warmed)
½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick, cubed)
1 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
¼ tsp white pepper (optional, for smooth color)
(Optional upgrades: roasted garlic, sour cream, chives, or Parmesan cheese!)
π¨π³ Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Potatoes Right
Peel & cube potatoes evenly (so they cook at the same rate).
Place in a large pot, cover with cold water (just enough to submerge).
Add 1 tsp salt to the water.
Bring to a gentle simmer (NOT a rolling boil)—this prevents water absorption!
Cook 15-20 mins until fork-tender.
2️⃣ Drain & Dry
Drain potatoes immediately in a colander.
Return to the pot and let sit 2 mins (steams off excess moisture).
3️⃣ Rice or Mash for Smoothness
Press potatoes through a ricer (best for ultra-smooth texture).
No ricer? Use a food mill or fine-mesh sieve.
Last resort: Mash gently with a potato masher (but don’t overwork!).
4️⃣ Add Warm Dairy & Butter
Heat milk/cream until warm (not boiling).
Fold butter into hot potatoes until melted.
Gradually add warm milk, stirring gently (stop when creamy—don’t overmix!).
Season with salt & white pepper.
5️⃣ Serve Immediately!
Top with extra butter, chives, or a drizzle of truffle oil for luxury.
π‘ Pro Tips for Perfect PurΓ©e
πΈ Use Yukon Golds – Naturally buttery & creamy.
πΈ Never overmix – Releases starch, making gluey potatoes.
πΈ Warm your dairy – Cold milk cools the potatoes & ruins texture.
πΈ For extra fluffiness, whip with a hand mixer (briefly!).
π½️ Serving Ideas
✨ Classic comfort – With roast chicken & gravy.
✨ Gourmet twist – Fold in roasted garlic or goat cheese.
✨ Holiday-worthy – Pipe into elegant swirls for special occasions.
π€ FAQ – Your Potato Questions Answered!
Q: Why do my mashed potatoes turn gummy?
A: Overmixing or using a blender/food processor activates starch—always rice or mash gently!
Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: Yes! Keep warm in a double boiler or reheat with extra butter & milk.
Q: Why no cream cheese/sour cream in this recipe?
A: They add tang & density, but this method focuses on pure, velvety texture.