Mashed Red Potatoes are a simple, comforting side dish that highlights the naturally creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor of red-skinned potatoes. Unlike russet potatoes, red potatoes hold their shape well while still mashing into a smooth yet rustic consistency, making them ideal for everyday family meals and holiday dinners alike. This classic preparation uses just a handful of ingredients, butter, warm milk, and salt, to create rich, buttery potatoes with a homemade taste that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, or vegetables. Leaving a few small potato pieces adds rustic charm and extra texture, while warming the milk before mixing helps create exceptionally smooth mashed potatoes without becoming gluey.
Ingredients
- 2 lb red potatoes (halved if large)
- water (enough to cover potatoes)
- 3 tbsp butter (cut into pieces)
- 1 tsp salt
- ⅔ cup whole milk (warmed)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
- Place the potatoes into a 3-quart saucepan.
- Cover completely with water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Drain well.
Step 2: Mash and Finish
- Return the drained potatoes to the saucepan.
- Mash coarsely with a potato masher.
- Add the butter and salt.
- Gradually pour in the warmed milk while continuing to mash.
- Mash until almost smooth and well blended.
- Serve immediately.
Tips
- Leave some potato skins on for extra texture and nutrition.
- Add roasted garlic for deeper flavor.
- Stir in chopped chives or green onions before serving.
- Substitute half-and-half for an even richer mash.
- Mix in shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese.
- Finish with freshly cracked black pepper.
- Add sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Use salted butter and reduce added salt to taste.
- Keep the potatoes warm over very low heat until serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for color.
Nutrition
Calories: 224kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.7gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 26mgSodium: 667mgPotassium: 884mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 340IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 73mgIron: 1.4mg