1 Serving Home-Style Mashed Potatoes For Dinner - this classic comfort food is a must-have on any dinner table. Whether you're serving it alongside roast beef, grilled chicken or just as a main dish, mashed potatoes always hit the spot. And with just 180 calories per serving, it's a guilt-free indulgence.

Not only are mashed potatoes delicious, but they're also packed with nutrition. A serving of mashed potatoes provides a good source of nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Plus, it's easy to customize mashed potatoes to your preferences by adding seasonings, cheese, or a splash of milk.

In this article, we'll share our favorite recipe for making creamy mashed potatoes at home, along with tips for seasoning and using up leftovers. We'll also explore the history of mashed potatoes and the health benefits of this humble spud.

A Delicious Recipe for Home-Style Mashed Potatoes

There are many ways to make mashed potatoes, but this recipe is simple and foolproof. Here's what you'll need:

• 2 pounds of Russet potatoes
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt

1. Peel and chop the potatoes into 1-inch cubes.
2. Boil the potatoes in a pot of salted water until they're tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and mash them with a potato masher or fork.
4. In a separate pot, warm up the milk and butter until the butter is melted.
5. Add the milk and butter mixture to the mashed potatoes and stir until they're smooth and creamy.
6. Season with salt to taste.

How to Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes at Home

The key to making creamy mashed potatoes is using the right type of potato and not overworking the mixture. Here are a few tips to help you achieve the perfect consistency:

• Use Russet potatoes, which have a high starch content that makes them ideal for mashing.
• Don't overcook the potatoes, as they'll become watery and less flavorful.
• Warm up the milk and butter before adding it to the mashed potatoes, as this will help prevent the mixture from getting too cold and starchy.
• Use a potato masher or fork to mash the potatoes, as a food processor or blender can overwork the potatoes and make them gummy.

By following these simple steps, you can make creamy mashed potatoes that are sure to impress your guests.

Perfectly Seasoned Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Mashed potatoes can be seasoned in a variety of ways, depending on your taste preferences. Here's a delicious recipe that adds garlic and herbs for extra flavor:

• 2 pounds of Russet potatoes
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or chives), chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt

1. Peel and chop the potatoes into 1-inch cubes.
2. Boil the potatoes in a pot of salted water until they're tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and mash them with a potato masher or fork.
4. In a separate pot, warm up the milk and butter with the minced garlic and herbs until the butter is melted and the mixture is fragrant.
5. Add the milk and butter mixture to the mashed potatoes and stir until they're smooth and creamy.
6. Season with salt to taste.

The Ultimate Comfort Food Side Dish

Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish. They're warm, creamy, and perfect for pairing with meat, vegetables, or your favorite gravy. Plus, mashed potatoes are easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Creative Ways to Use Leftover Mashed Potatoes

If you have leftover mashed potatoes, there are plenty of creative ways to use them up. Here are a few ideas:

• Make potato cakes or fritters by mixing the mashed potatoes with flour, egg, and spices, then frying until crispy.
• Add mashed potatoes to soup or stew for extra creaminess.
• Use mashed potatoes as a topping for shepherd's pie or pot pies.
• Make stuffed potato balls by rolling mashed potatoes around a filling of your choice (such as cheese, bacon, or spinach), then frying or baking until golden.

Mashed Potatoes with Garlic and Herbs

Adding garlic and herbs to mashed potatoes can take them from tasty to downright irresistible. Here's a recipe to try:

• 2 pounds of Russet potatoes
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or chives), chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt

1. Peel and chop the potatoes into 1-inch cubes.
2. Boil the potatoes in a pot of salted water until they're tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and mash them with a potato masher or fork.
4. In a separate pot, warm up the milk and butter with the minced garlic and herbs until the butter is melted and the mixture is fragrant.
5. Add the milk and butter mixture to the mashed potatoes and stir until they're smooth and creamy.
6. Season with salt to taste.

Vegan and Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes Recipe

If you're looking for a vegan or dairy-free option, you can still enjoy mashed potatoes. Here's a recipe that uses non-dairy milk and vegan butter or oil:

• 2 pounds of Russet potatoes
• 1/2 cup of non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
• 4 tablespoons of vegan butter or olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt

1. Peel and chop the potatoes into 1-inch cubes.
2. Boil the potatoes in a pot of salted water until they're tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and mash them with a potato masher or fork.
4. In a separate pot, warm up the non-dairy milk and vegan butter or oil until the butter/oil is melted.
5. Add the milk and butter/oil mixture to the mashed potatoes and stir until they're smooth and creamy.
6. Season with salt to taste.

Pro Tips for Making Fluffy and Smooth Mashed Potatoes

Here are a few pro tips to help you make fluffy and smooth mashed potatoes every time:

• Use a ricer or food mill to mash the potatoes for an extra-fine texture.
• Warm up the milk and butter before adding it to the mashed potatoes to prevent the mixture from getting cold and starchy.
• Season the potatoes with plenty of salt to enhance their flavor.
• Don't overwork the potatoes, as this can make them gluey and tough.
• For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the mashed potatoes.

The History of Mashed Potatoes - Fun Facts

Did you know that mashed potatoes have been a staple food in Ireland since the 17th century? Or that Thomas Jefferson served mashed potatoes at a state dinner in 1802, making them popular in the United States? Here are a few more fun facts about mashed potatoes:

• The world record for the largest serving of mashed potatoes was set in 2012, when a hotel in South Africa served over 6,600 pounds of mashed potatoes to guests.
• Mashed potatoes were one of the first foods eaten in space, when astronaut John Young smuggled a corned beef sandwich and mashed potatoes onto the Gemini 3 mission in 1965.
• In some parts of England, mashed potatoes are called "spuds."

Health Benefits of Potatoes - What You Need to Know

Potatoes are often maligned as a starchy, carb-heavy food, but they actually have a lot of health benefits. Here's what you need to know:

• Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
• Potatoes contain antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
• Potatoes can help regulate blood sugar levels, thanks to their high fiber content.
• Potatoes are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.