Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food loved by many for their creamy texture and rich flavor. This recipe is scaled perfectly to serve 20 people, making it ideal for large gatherings, holiday dinners, or events. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can easily prepare a crowd-pleasing side dish that complements any main course.
Ingredients
- 10 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes (about 20 medium potatoes)
- 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 4 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1 cup sour cream or heavy cream for extra creaminess
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh chives or parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform chunks, about 2-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking.
- Rinse and soak: Rinse the potato pieces under cold water to remove excess starch. Soak them in cold water for 10-15 minutes if you have time, then drain thoroughly.
- Cook the potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are very tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 20-25 minutes.
- Drain and steam dry: Drain the potatoes well in a colander. Return them to the hot pot off the heat and let them sit for 2-3 minutes to steam off excess moisture. This helps prevent watery mashed potatoes.
- Warm the dairy: While the potatoes cook, warm the milk and butter together in a saucepan over low heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is hot but not boiling. This helps the potatoes absorb the liquid better.
- Mash the potatoes: Use a potato masher, ricer, or food mill to mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. For ultra-smooth potatoes, a ricer or food mill is best; for a more rustic texture, a masher works well.
- Add butter and milk: Gradually stir in the warm butter and milk mixture. Mix gently until smooth and creamy. Avoid overmixing as it can make the potatoes gluey.
- Season and adjust: Taste and add additional salt and pepper as needed. If using, fold in sour cream or heavy cream for extra richness.
- Keep warm until serving: Transfer mashed potatoes to a large serving dish or slow cooker set on low to keep warm. Cover to prevent drying out.
Tips
- Potato choice: Yukon Golds offer a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture, while Russets produce fluffier, lighter mashed potatoes. A mix of both can balance creaminess and fluffiness.
- Don’t overmix: Overworking potatoes releases starch and can result in gluey, dense mashed potatoes. Mash just until smooth.
- Warming liquids: Always warm butter and milk before adding to potatoes to help them absorb better and keep the mash hot.
- Storage: Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
Serving Suggestions
Mashed potatoes are versatile and pair well with a variety of main dishes. Serve alongside roasted turkey, baked ham, grilled steak, or meatloaf for a classic meal. Add a drizzle of pan gravy or mushroom sauce on top for extra flavor. For a festive touch, garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley. Mashed potatoes also make an excellent base for shepherd’s pie or loaded mashed potato bowls topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions.
Variations
Customize your mashed potatoes to suit your taste or occasion. Try adding roasted garlic or caramelized onions for a savory depth. Stir in cream cheese or mascarpone for a richer texture. For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan margarine and use unsweetened plant-based milk. To add color and nutrients, blend in cooked cauliflower or parsnips with the potatoes. Herb-infused mashed potatoes with rosemary, thyme, or dill offer a fresh twist.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To reheat, warm mashed potatoes gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, to ensure even heating. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out or a grainy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time for a large group?
Yes, you can prepare mashed potatoes a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving. Adding a bit of extra butter or cream when reheating helps restore creaminess.
What’s the best potato for mashed potatoes?
Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are the most popular choices. Yukon Golds have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture, while Russets create lighter, fluffier potatoes. Many cooks prefer a mix of both for the best balance.
How do I avoid watery mashed potatoes?
Drain potatoes thoroughly and let them steam dry in the hot pot for a few minutes after boiling. Also, warm your milk and butter before adding, and add liquids gradually to prevent adding too much moisture.
Can I use a mixer to mash potatoes?
While electric mixers can speed up the process, they can also overwork the potatoes and make them gluey. It’s best to mash by hand with a masher or use a ricer for smooth results.
How much mashed potatoes should I prepare per person?
For a side dish, plan on about 1/2 pound of raw potatoes per person, which yields roughly 1 cup of mashed potatoes. This recipe uses 10 pounds of potatoes to comfortably serve 20 people.
Can I add other ingredients like cheese or herbs?
Absolutely! Adding shredded cheese (cheddar, Parmesan), roasted garlic, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley can enhance flavor. Add these after mashing so they incorporate evenly without affecting texture.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll have a large batch of creamy, delicious mashed potatoes that will satisfy any crowd. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a special event, this recipe makes it easy to serve comfort food that everyone loves.
Remember, the key to perfect mashed potatoes is using the right potatoes, cooking them thoroughly, and handling them gently to maintain a light, fluffy texture. Enjoy!
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