If you’re looking for the creamiest mashed potatoes recipe for cozy winter dinners, holiday gatherings, or Sunday comfort meals, this version delivers that restaurant-style texture Americans love — silky, rich, buttery, and completely lump-free.
This recipe is trending heavily on Pinterest during December and January because users crave simple, ultra-creamy comfort sides that pair with anything. With just a few pantry staples and a secret technique, these mashed potatoes turn into a cloud-like, velvety bowl of pure comfort.
If you’re building a winter recipe collection, you may also love my ultra creamy baked mac and cheese, garlic butter mushrooms, and the viral sweet potato casserole with marshmallows.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes (best creamy texture)
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
- 8 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 2 oz cream cheese for extra richness
Instructions
- Peel and cut potatoes into equal chunks. Boil until fork-tender.
- Drain and return potatoes to the pot. Heat 1 minute to remove excess moisture.
- Mash lightly, then add warm milk, warm cream, melted butter, salt, and pepper.
- Whip with a masher or hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Avoid overmixing.
- Stir in cream cheese if you want the “ultra-rich steakhouse” version.
- Serve warm with melted butter on top.
Serving Ideas (Pinterest Popular)
- With holiday side dishes
- Alongside turkey or chicken
- With meatloaf, pot roast, roasted vegetables
- As a base for bowl-style dinners
Make-Ahead Instructions
Prepare completely, store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat gently with extra warm milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture.
FAQ
Why are my mashed potatoes gummy?
Cold dairy causes gumminess. Always warm your milk and cream before mixing.
What’s the best potato for mashed potatoes?
Yukon Golds give the creamiest texture; Russets give a fluffier finish.
Can I freeze mashed potatoes?
Yes — add extra butter before freezing to maintain creaminess.
How do I reheat mashed potatoes?
Slowly on the stovetop with added warm milk or cream until smooth again.
Conclusion
These creamy mashed potatoes are the kind of winter comfort side dish that always goes viral because they’re unbelievably buttery, easy to make, and pair perfectly with cozy meals throughout December and January. Whether you’re hosting or meal prepping, this recipe guarantees silky, restaurant-quality mashed potatoes every time.
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The Creamiest Mashed Potatoes Recipe (Buttery, No Lumps, Perfect Every Time)
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Silky, rich, buttery, and lump-free mashed potatoes — the ultimate cozy side dish trending in winter for a reason.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
- 8 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 2 oz cream cheese
Instructions
- Peel and cut potatoes into equal chunks. Boil until fork-tender.
- Drain and return potatoes to the pot. Heat 1 minute to remove excess moisture.
- Mash lightly, then add warm milk, warm cream, melted butter, salt, and pepper.
- Whip with a masher or hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Avoid overmixing.
- Stir in cream cheese if using for extra richness.
- Serve warm with melted butter on top.
Notes
Make ahead and store up to 3 days. Reheat gently with extra warm milk or cream for perfect texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: mashed potatoes, creamy, comfort food, winter, holiday, buttery