There’s nothing complicated about making mashed potatoes, but a few key details will yield the creamiest, most flavorful results. First, boil the spuds whole, with their skins on. Peeled potatoes absorb more water; peeling after cooking allows a drier texture that will better soak up the milk and butter. Another step for ultra creamy (not watery) potatoes? Place the boiled, drained potatoes back in the pot and set them over low heat until they stop steaming. Using a potato ricer will absolutely create the smoothest texture, but we’re fans of the lumpy variety as well. For ultra light whipped potatoes, see the Note below.
These rich, tangy potatoes are perfect on their own, and even better when served with an additional pat of butter or a drizzle of Big Sunday Brown Gravy just before serving.
Ingredients
1 ½ tablespoons Kosher salt, plus more as needed
2 ½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (about 6 large potatoes)
In a large pot, bring a gallon of water and 1 ½ tablespoons kosher salt to a boil over high heat. Add potatoes to boiling water and reduce heat slightly to cook at a lively simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until tender (a paring knife should slide in with almost no resistance).
Drain the potatoes, then return them to the hot pan or over a very low heat for a minute and shake them around to remove excess moisture.
Combine the butter and Potato Slayer in a small dish and microwave until the butter has melted, about 30 seconds.
Use a ricer or masher to break down and mash the hot potatoes until smooth. Lightly mix in the warm seasoned butter, sour cream and Parmesan, just until blended. Taste for seasonings and adjust as desired.
To keep hot until ready to serve, transfer the potatoes to a serving bowl, dot top with butter, cover, and place on the back of the stove.
Recipe Note
For whipped potatoes, use a stand mixer to mash hot potatoes just until smooth, about 30 seconds. Add all the butter mixture and salt to taste, pulsing machine in short bursts at medium speed. When light and creamy, stop mixing immediately. (Potatoes can quickly become sticky.)