Mashed potatoes are one of the best side dishes for this, and the best thing about this, is that you can make them a certain way that really enhances all of the aspects of these potatoes that we love. Here is a fun recipe that you will enjoy to make the best mashed potatoes possible.
INGREDIENTS
3 lb. mixed potatoes, such as russets & Yukon Golds
Freshly ground black pepper
1/2 c. sour cream
1/2 c. (1 stick) butter, plus 2 tablespoons for garnish
1/2 c. whole milk
Kosher salt
Steps
Get a big pot, and then cover up the potatoes with a heaping of water and add a bit of salt. Let this boil, and then cook this until the potatoes get nice and soft, usually about 18 minutes.
When done, drain this, and put the potatoes in the pot once more, and from there, get a potato masher, and mash this until everything’s nice and smooth.
Once that’s done, melt the butter along with the milk in a saucepan, and once this is warmed up, take this and stir it all together.
You then put it over your potatoes until this becomes creamed, and also add more sour cream until it’s all properly mixed together.
Season everything with some pepper and salt until it tastes how you want it to taste.
Put this in a bowl to serve, topping this with the last couple tablespoons of the butter, and then add more pepper as needed before you serve it!
Tips
What potatoes to use?
This is something that’s ultimately up to you.
Russets are faster to cook, and they are fluffier and a bit starchier, but they’re not as sweet.
Yukon golds are a bit more moist, waxier, and they are better at holding their shape. With russets, you’re also getting a more bland potato, while the Yukon ones will contribute a creamy texture and flavor to it. The russets also will get a great flavor out of this.
So the real answer here is both, but it’s ultimately your discretion, since there is a lot for you to choose from.
Should I peel it?
This is a question a lot of people have. some people like to peel them, since the texture is an added bonus to the skin, but this is your call.
The skins will offer a bit more nutrients along with some fiber and it tastes more textured.
But if you like smooth potatoes that’s fine too, and you can definitely benefit from this as well.
How much butter should I use?
Butter is your best friend. If you want to use a few more tablespoons on top of the full stick this calls for, go for it. Butter is really good for potatoes, and you can even add the milk to it, and let it create a great, creamy texture.
On that same note, don’t be afraid to offer full-fat options to your potatoes. They do make them less dry, and it’s something that makes them taste a lot better. Skip both low-fat milk and sour cream options and instead go full-fat with all of this and indulge yourself with it!