Basic Mashed Potatoes

This dish is ideal if you enjoy hearty, traditional mashed potatoes. This tried-and-true recipe for straightforward, homemade mashed potatoes is a traditional holiday dish and is made using Idaho potatoes, milk, butter, and optional garlic. Discover the secret to consistently tasty, creamy, and smooth mashed potatoes. Garnish with gravy or more butter.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of baking potatoes
  
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled
  
• 1 cup milk
  
• 2 tbsp butter
  
• salt and ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Large saucepan of salted water should be brought to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, add potatoes and garlic, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until potatoes are soft.
   
2. When the potatoes are almost done, combine the butter and milk together in a small saucepan over low heat.
   
3. Return the potatoes to the pot after draining. Add the heated milk mixture gradually, incorporating it with a potato masher or electric mixer until the potatoes are creamy and smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.