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Close-up of creamy mashed potatoes topped with a pat of butter, sprinkled with freshly ground black pepper and chopped green onions.

The Best Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe

by Cassandra Morris
Introducing The Best Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe you’ll ever try! These mashed potatoes are rich, buttery, and irresistibly smooth, made with Yukon Gold potatoes, garlic, cream cheese, and whipping cream. This easy mashed potatoes recipe is perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any special occasion. Simple to make and packed with flavor, these mashed potatoes are sure to become a family favorite!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 8

Ingredients

  • 5 pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes
  • 6 garlic cloves minced
  • kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 4 ounces cream cheese room temperature

Instructions

  • Peel and Cut Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform chunks, about 1 inch thick. Place the cut potatoes into a large stockpot filled with cold water.
  • Boil the Potatoes: Once your potatoes are cut, make sure the water level is about 1 inch above the potatoes in the pot. Stir in the minced garlic and salt, then turn the heat to high and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-high (or whatever setting keeps the boil going) and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until a knife easily slides into the middle of a potato. Carefully drain the water.
  • Pan-Dry the Potatoes: Once you’ve drained the water, immediately return the potatoes to the hot stockpot and place it back on the burner over low heat. Using oven mitts, carefully grip the handles and gently shake the pot for about a minute to help release any remaining steam from the potatoes. Remove the pot from the heat.
  • Prepare the Butter Mixture: While the potatoes are boiling, combine the butter, cream, and salt in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat until the butter is melted, making sure the cream doesn’t come to a boil. Set it aside until you're ready to use it.
  • Mash the Potatoes: Use an old-school potato masher and work up some elbow grease to mash the potatoes until they’re completely smooth. No chunks allowed—just smooth, creamy goodness!
  • Stir Everything Together: Pour half of the melted butter mixture over the potatoes and gently fold it in with a spatula until the potatoes absorb the liquid. Repeat with the remaining butter, then add the cream cheese, folding everything in until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix!
  • Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper, add a pat of butter on top, and serve hot.