When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the deliciousness of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. I’ve tried countless recipes over the years, but one that has consistently stood out is this Chef John’s famous mashed potatoes.
You see, mashed potatoes can be a tricky beast. Get the texture wrong, and you end up with a gluey, gloppy mess. Add too much or too little seasoning, and the whole dish falls flat.
However, Chef John’s approach is simple yet impactful. I think this recipe can elevate your normal mashed potatoes to new heights of flavor and creaminess.
Whether you serve it as a side to a hearty main course or enjoy it on its own, these mashed potatoes will satisfy your comfort food cravings.
Equipment Required
- Heavy-Bottom Pot: I use a heavy-bottomed pot because it ensures even cooking and prevents the potatoes from sticking or burning.
- Knife and Cutting Board: These are essential for peeling and slicing the potatoes. I recommend using a sharp nice for safety and precision.
- Potato Masher: I love using a potato masher for its simplicity in achieving a smooth texture.
- Whisk: If you don’t have a whisk, a fork or spoon can work, though they might not achieve the same level of fluffiness.
- Peeler: I find a peeler to be the quickest and cleanest way to remove potato skins.
- Butter Knife: A butter knife is particularly handy for cutting the butter into pieces and gradually incorporating it into the potatoes.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons are crucial for adding the right amounts of ingredients to help achieve better results.
- Colander: I suggest using a colander to drain the potatoes thoroughly after cooking. If you don’t have a colander, you can use a sieve or simply drain them directly in the pot, though a colander usually makes the job easier.
Chef John Mashed Potato Ingredients And Substitutions
Note: The listed ingredients will make 8 servings of mashed potato.
- 3 1/4 Pounds Russet Potatoes (3 Or 4): If you can’t find russets, Yukon Golds are a fantastic alternative. They’ll give your mashed potatoes a creamier texture while still keeping them delicious.
- 1 Pound Unsalted Butter: If you’re looking for a lighter option, use half the amount of butter or substitute with margarine.
- 1/4 Cup Hot Milk: If you’re out of milk, I recommend using cream for a richer texture.
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
- ½ Teaspoon Pepper
Preparation And Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 Minutes | 20 Minutes | 30 Minutes |
How To Make Chef John Mashed Potato At Home
Step 1
Fill a heavy-bottomed pot with water and add evenly sliced potatoes and a generous amount of salt.
Step 2
Bring the water to a simmer and cook the potatoes until they are perfectly tender.
Step 3
Once the potatoes are very tender, drain them thoroughly. Return the pot to medium-low heat and mash the potatoes with a potato masher.
Step 4
After mashing, add some butter to the potatoes.
Step 5
Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
Step 6
Continue mixing until the ingredients are well combined. Add more butter and use a whisk to incorporate it thoroughly.
Step 7
Once smooth, stir in some hot milk and mix one last time until the potatoes are light and fluffy.
Step 8
Your creamy mashed potatoes are now ready to serve and enjoy.
Chef John Mashed Potatoes Recipe Video
Expert Tips That I Recommend
- If you want a richer, more indulgent version, I recommend replacing part of the milk with heavy cream. It gives the potatoes an incredible richness that really elevates the dish.
- If you’re after a slight tang to balance the richness, adding a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese does the trick. I love how it brings a subtle zing that makes the potatoes more interesting without being too intense.
- If you’re a garlic lover, I highly recommend adding a few cloves of roasted garlic to the potatoes.
- I love adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme at the end. They bring a bright, fresh note to the creamy potatoes and add a pop of color to the plate, making it visually appealing.
FAQs About Chef John Mashed Potato
Nutritional Information Per Serving
Chef John’s mashed potatoes are definitely a tasty treat, but they’re not a healthy option due to their rich butter content. I recommend that you enjoy them in moderation.
Below are the exact nutritional values for this recipe for your reference.
| Calories | Â 552kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 33g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 46g |
| Saturated Fat | 29g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 12g |
| Trans Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 122mg |
| Sodium | 306mg |
| Potassium | 784mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Vitamin A | 1419IU |
| Vitamin C | 11mg |
| Calcium | 38mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Recipe Variations For Different Diets
- Dairy-Free/Vegan Diet: To make this recipe dairy-free or vegan, I would suggest substituting the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives. Use vegan butter or a neutral-flavored oil, and replace the milk with unsweetened almond, oat, or soy milk. You may need to adjust the consistency by adding a bit more liquid.
Storing And Reheating This Recipe
Storing–
- Refrigeration: I recommend storing your mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days this way. Just make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent any odors from seeping in.
- Freezing: If you have leftovers that you won’t be able to eat within a few days, freezing is a great option. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To avoid freezer burn, press out as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating–
- Stovetop Method: I suggest that you gently warm the potatoes over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if they seem too thick. Stir frequently to ensure they heat evenly.
- Microwave Microwave the mashed potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat them in short intervals, stirring in between, until they’re warmed through. Adding a little bit of milk or butter can help keep them creamy.
What To Serve With This Recipe
- Fried Chicken: I highly recommend pairing these creamy mashed potatoes with crispy Fried Chicken. The crunchiness of the chicken is a perfect contrast to the smooth, rich potatoes.
- Grilled Steak: A juicy, grilled steak makes for an indulgent yet satisfying meal. I find that the creamy, buttery mashed potatoes beautifully balance the bold flavors of the steak.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans are my go-to for a healthier option. They add a lovely roasted flavor and a bit of crunch, complementing the creamy potatoes perfectly.
- Pan Seared Salmon: If you’re in the mood for something lighter, pan-seared salmon is a fantastic choice. The delicate, flaky fish pairs wonderfully with the rich and smooth texture of the mashed potatoes.
- Homemade Meatloaf: For a hearty meal, you can’t go wrong with homemade meatloaf. The savory, comforting flavors of meatloaf and the creamy mashed potatoes make for a satisfying, classic combination.
Printable Version
Chef John’s Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 1/4 Pounds Russet Potatoes 3 Or 4
- 1 Pound Unsalted Butter
- 1/4 Cup Hot Milk
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
- ½ Teaspoon Pepper
Equipment
- Heavy Bottom Pot
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Potato Masher
- Whisk
- Peeler
- Butter Knife
- Measuring Cups And Spoons
- Colander
Instructions
- Fill a heavy-bottomed pot with water and add evenly sliced potatoes and a generous amount of salt.
- Bring the water to a simmer and cook the potatoes until they are perfectly tender.
- Once the potatoes are very tender, drain them thoroughly. Return the pot to medium-low heat and mash the potatoes with a potato masher.
- After mashing, add some butter to the potatoes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Continue mixing until the ingredients are well combined. Add more butter and use a whisk to incorporate it thoroughly.
- Once smooth, stir in some hot milk and mix one last time until the potatoes are light and fluffy.
- Your creamy mashed potatoes are now ready to serve and enjoy.
Video
Notes
- If you want a richer, more indulgent version, I recommend replacing part of the milk with heavy cream. It gives the potatoes an incredible richness that really elevates the dish.
- If you’re after a slight tang to balance the richness, adding a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese does the trick. I love how it brings a subtle zing that makes the potatoes more interesting without being too intense.
- If you’re a garlic lover, I highly recommend adding a few cloves of roasted garlic to the potatoes.
- I love adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme at the end. They bring a bright, fresh note to the creamy potatoes and add a pop of color to the plate, making it visually appealing.
Nutrition
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Conclusion
I hope that by following the step-by-step instructions of this recipe and you can recreate this dish with ease and enjoy the same level of satisfaction that I do.
I’d love to hear how your mashed potatoes turn out. Feel free to leave a comment below, share your experience, or let me know if you made any tweaks or variations. I’m always excited to hear your feedback.
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