Your Basic Mashed Potatoes

Name: Your Basic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients: 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces; 3 cloves garlic, smashed; Kosher salt; 2/3 cup whole milk, more if needed; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; Freshly ground black pepper

6 ingredients

7 steps

Ingredients

2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
3 cloves garlic, smashed
Kosher salt
2/3 cup whole milk, more if needed
1/4 cup unsalted butter
Freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1

Set the potatoes and garlic in a medium pot, cover with at least 2 inches of water, and add 1 tablespoon salt.
2

Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook with the lid slightly askew until the potatoes are completely softened, about 15 minutes (test by poking with a wooden skewer or a paring knife).
3

Drain well and return the potatoes to the pot.
4

Meanwhile, heat the milk and butter over medium-low heat until the butter is melted.
5

Add the milk mixture to the drained potatoes and mash thoroughly with a masher or a whisk until smooth.
6

Add 1 or 2 tablespoons of milk if the potatoes are dry.
7

Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve, or use in Mashed Potatoes with Cheddar, Chiles and Scallions.