Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe with Butter & Chives

There’s something undeniably magical about a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes. Picture it: steaming hot, velvety smooth, buttery potatoes topped with vibrant green chives, just waiting to be scooped up. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, a nostalgic reminder of family dinners and holiday feasts. The first time I mastered this recipe, I had one of those stop-and-savor-the-moment experiences. You know the kind—the ones that make you pause and think, “This is it. This is the kind of comfort food I’ve been searching for.”

Years ago, when I was still experimenting in the kitchen, I stumbled upon the secret to truly creamy mashed potatoes: a combination of Yukon Gold potatoes, a generous amount of butter, and just the right splash of milk or cream. My family couldn’t stop sneaking spoonfuls before dinner was served, leaving me scrambling to make a second batch. Now, this recipe is a staple for every cozy family gathering, and I don’t mind doubling it from the get-go. It’s that good.

Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, a weeknight comfort meal, or simply want to brighten up your dinner plate, this recipe will deliver pure potato bliss every single time. Trust me—you’re going to want to bookmark this one!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe takes the stress out of making a classic side dish.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these staples in your kitchen—potatoes, butter, milk, and chives.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive holiday meal, these mashed potatoes fit right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves creamy mashed potatoes, from picky kids to food-loving adults.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The buttery richness and fresh chives make this recipe a standout.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors and the perfect texture. No lumps—just smooth, fluffy potatoes with a touch of brightness from the chives. It’s not just any creamy mashed potato recipe; it’s the one that will have your guests asking for seconds (and the recipe). Every bite is like a little celebration of comfort food done right.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create the ultimate creamy mashed potatoes. No fancy grocery trips—just straightforward goodness that delivers unbeatable flavor.

• Yukon Gold potatoes: About 2 pounds, peeled and cut into chunks (they’re naturally creamy and perfect for mashing).
• Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons, softened (adds richness and that signature buttery flavor).
• Milk or cream: 1/2 cup, warmed (use whole milk or heavy cream for extra creaminess).
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste.
• Freshly ground black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste.
• Fresh chives: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped (for a pop of color and flavor).

If you’re looking to adapt this recipe, you can swap milk for a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk. For extra decadence, try adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the potatoes. And if you’re feeling adventurous, roasted garlic or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can take these mashed potatoes to the next level.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to whip up this recipe, but here are the essentials:

• Large pot: For boiling the potatoes.
• Potato masher: A classic choice for achieving a perfectly creamy texture. A ricer works well too if you prefer ultra-smooth potatoes.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the potatoes with butter, milk, and seasoning.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For mixing everything together.

If you don’t have a potato masher, a fork can work in a pinch—just be prepared for a bit of an arm workout! For a smoother finish, you can use a hand mixer, but be careful not to overmix, as it can make the potatoes gummy.

Preparation Method

1. Start by peeling and cutting your Yukon Gold potatoes into evenly sized chunks. This ensures they’ll cook evenly.
2. Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
3. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Allow them to sit for a minute to let the steam evaporate—this helps keep them from turning watery.
5. Add the unsalted butter to the hot potatoes and use a potato masher to mash them until smooth.
6. Gradually pour in the warmed milk or cream, mashing and stirring until the potatoes reach your desired consistency. Add more milk if necessary.
7. Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
8. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and sprinkle with the finely chopped chives. Serve immediately while hot!

If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash the potatoes less. For silky-smooth potatoes, use a potato ricer or food mill instead of a masher. And don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as you go!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tried-and-true tips to make sure your creamy mashed potatoes with butter and chives turn out perfectly:

• Start with cold water: Always add potatoes to cold water before bringing it to a boil. This helps them cook evenly without becoming mushy.
• Use the right potato: Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for mashing because of their creamy texture and buttery flavor. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes—they don’t mash as well.
• Warm the milk: Cold milk can cool down the potatoes, making them harder to mash. Warm the milk or cream slightly before adding it to keep everything smooth.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing mashed potatoes can make them gluey. Mash just until smooth and avoid overworking them.
• Add butter first: Mixing butter into the hot potatoes before adding the milk helps create a creamy base, making the texture smoother.

And here’s a personal tip: If you’re making mashed potatoes ahead of time, reheat them gently over low heat, stirring in a little extra milk or butter to restore their creaminess.

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about mashed potatoes is how versatile they can be. Here are a few fun ways to mix things up:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roast a few cloves of garlic and mash them into the potatoes for a rich, savory twist.
• Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for a gooey, cheesy upgrade.
• Herb Medley Mashed Potatoes: Swap the chives for fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary to create a herbaceous flavor profile.
• Vegan-Friendly Version: Use almond milk and vegan butter instead of dairy products for a plant-based option.

Personally, I love adding a dollop of sour cream and mixing in a little grated Parmesan for an extra touch of indulgence. You can also experiment with adding crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions for a hearty twist.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These creamy mashed potatoes with butter and chives are best served piping hot. They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, turkey, or even grilled salmon. For a vegetarian option, serve them alongside roasted veggies or a hearty lentil loaf.

To store leftovers, transfer the mashed potatoes to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a splash of milk or butter to restore their smooth texture. You can also freeze mashed potatoes for up to 2 months—just thaw them in the fridge and reheat as needed.

Pro tip: The flavors of butter and chives deepen over time, making leftovers just as delicious (if not better!) the next day.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This recipe is a comforting classic that’s surprisingly wholesome:

• Calories: Approximately 200 per serving.
• Fat: 11 grams (mostly from butter, which provides that rich flavor).
• Carbohydrates: 22 grams (thanks to the natural starch in potatoes).
• Protein: 3 grams.

Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your meal. Chives add a touch of freshness and a dose of antioxidants, while butter provides delicious richness. You can lighten up the recipe by using less butter or swapping cream for low-fat milk if desired.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a mashed potato recipe that’s creamy, buttery, and oh-so-satisfying, this is the one to try. It’s been a staple at my family gatherings for years, and every time I make it, I’m reminded why. The combination of Yukon Gold potatoes, butter, and chives is just unbeatable.

Don’t be afraid to make it your own—add garlic, cheese, or experiment with different herbs. Whatever you do, I promise it will be a hit! Let me know how your creamy mashed potatoes turn out in the comments below, and if you love this recipe, share it with friends. Here’s to making comfort food memories that last a lifetime!

FAQs

Can I use another type of potato for this recipe?

Yes, you can use russet potatoes if you prefer, but they may not be as creamy as Yukon Gold potatoes. Red potatoes are less starchy and won’t mash as smoothly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store the mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or butter to bring back the creamy texture.

Can I freeze mashed potatoes?

Yes, mashed potatoes freeze well. Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a little extra milk or butter.

What’s the best way to mash potatoes?

A potato masher is a great tool for a slightly rustic texture, while a ricer or food mill will give you smoother potatoes. Avoid using a blender or food processor, as it can make the potatoes gluey.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Simply replace the butter with a vegan alternative, like olive oil or vegan butter, and use a non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk. The results will still be creamy and delicious!

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