- **Heavy cream** (1/2 cup, for creamy mashed potatoes)
- **Milk** (1/4 cup, adjust for desired consistency)
- **Salt** (1 tsp, or to taste)
- **Black pepper** (1/2 tsp, freshly ground for flavor)
- **Optional**: Sour cream (1/4 cup, for extra richness)
- **Optional**: Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated for added flavor)
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- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Herb butter mashed potatoes
- Easy mashed potatoes recipe
- Homemade herb butter
- Comfort food side dish
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Steps
# How to Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Herb Butter: A Step-by-Step Guide
Mashed potatoes with herb butter are a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes with a flavorful herb butter for a dish that’s rich, aromatic, and utterly delicious. Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect mashed potatoes with herb butter that will impress your family and guests.
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## **Ingredients**
- **For the Mashed Potatoes:**
- 2 lbs (900g) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk (warmed)
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- **For the Herb Butter:**
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Potatoes**
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes (about 1-2 inches). This ensures even cooking.
- Rinse the potato cubes under cold water to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a fluffier texture.
### **2. Cook the Potatoes**
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
### **3. Make the Herb Butter**
- While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the herb butter. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped parsley, chives, thyme, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Set aside.
### **4. Drain and Mash the Potatoes**
- Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them thoroughly in a colander. Return them to the pot or a large mixing bowl.
- Use a potato masher or a ricer to mash the potatoes until smooth. Avoid over-mashing, as this can make the potatoes gummy.
### **5. Add Butter and Cream**
- Add 4 tablespoons of plain unsalted butter to the mashed potatoes and mix until melted and fully incorporated.
- Gradually pour in the warmed heavy cream or milk, stirring continuously until the potatoes reach your desired creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
### **6. Incorporate the Herb Butter**
- Gently fold in half of the prepared herb butter into the mashed potatoes, reserving the rest for garnish. This adds a burst of fresh, herby flavor to the dish.
### **7. Serve and Garnish**
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Top with the remaining herb butter, allowing it to melt slightly over the warm potatoes.
- Garnish with additional chopped herbs for a pop of color and freshness.
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## **Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes**
- **Use Yukon Gold Potatoes:** They have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture, making them ideal for mashed potatoes.
- **Warm the Cream:** Cold cream can cool down the potatoes, so warm it slightly before adding.
- **Don’t Overwork the Potatoes:** Over-mashing can release too much starch, resulting in a gluey texture.
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## **Why This Recipe Works**
This mashed potatoes with herb butter recipe is a crowd-pleaser because it combines the creamy richness of traditional mashed potatoes with the fresh, aromatic flavors of herb butter. The addition of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme elevates the dish, making it perfect for holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or special occasions.
By following these steps, you’ll create a side dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Serve it alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or your favorite comfort foods for a meal that’s sure to impress.
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