If you’ve been searching for that perfect comfort food to warm your soul, look no further than this Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Butter and Chives Recipe. It’s everything you love about classic mashed potatoes—silky smooth texture, rich buttery flavor, and the fresh pop of chives—all combined in one heavenly dish. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight meal, these mashed potatoes bring pure joy to the table, making every bite feel like a hug from the inside.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Sometimes the simplest ingredients create the most unforgettable dishes, and this recipe is no exception. Each component plays a crucial role, from the fluffy potatoes to the creamy milk and the fragrant chives, all adding up to that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color.
- Potatoes (1.5 kg / 3 lb): Use sturdy varieties like Sebago, Russet, or Maris Piper for the ideal fluffy texture.
- Salt (1 tbsp for cooking, 1/2 tsp added): Enhances flavor and seasons the potatoes perfectly from within.
- Unsalted butter (60g / 4 tbsp, chopped): Adds luscious richness and helps achieve that creamy mouthfeel.
- Milk (1/2 cup, preferably warmed): Loosens the mash gently while contributing subtle creaminess without overpowering.
- Extra melted butter: For drizzling on top, bringing a decadent finish and beautiful shine.
- Chives or parsley (chopped): Provides a bright, fresh contrast that wakes up the palate and adds lovely color.
How to Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Butter and Chives Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Boil the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cutting your potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a large pot with one tablespoon of salt, and add enough water to cover the potatoes by about 4 inches. This generous amount of water ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Cook Until Tender
Bring the water to a full boil over high heat, then reduce the heat so it’s simmering rapidly. Cook for 15 minutes or until the potatoes are incredibly soft—you’ll know they’re perfect when a fork slides through and they practically fall apart. This softness is key for that irresistibly creamy texture.
Step 3: Drain and Dry
Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Let them sit for about a minute, gently shaking the pot now and then. This step helps any remaining water evaporate, so your mashed potatoes won’t turn watery and will stay light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Butter, Milk, and Salt
Now it’s time to add your chopped butter, warmed milk, and half a teaspoon of salt. Mash well by hand to combine everything smoothly. Adding the milk gradually lets you control the consistency—you can make it as creamy or as thick as you like.
Step 5: Mash Carefully for Creaminess
Use a potato masher or even a handheld mixer on low speed to mash the potatoes. Be careful with mixers; overdoing it can make the potatoes gluey, so stop once they’re perfectly creamy. Avoid beaters, stick blenders, or food processors as they tend to change the potatoes’ texture in less desirable ways.
Step 6: Final Touches
Transfer your mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and create pretty swirls on the surface with the back of a spoon. Drizzle extra melted butter over the top for that irresistible shine and sprinkle chopped chives or parsley for color and flavor.
How to Serve Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Butter and Chives Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chives or parsley work beautifully as garnishes, adding a burst of color and mild oniony freshness. A small pat of melting butter on each serving also invites smiles and keeps the potatoes moist as everyone digs in.
Side Dishes
This dish is a superstar side that pairs perfectly with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even hearty vegetarian mains. Think juicy roasted beef, crispy pork chops, or a robust mushroom gravy for the ultimate cozy meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, try dolloping the creamy mashed potatoes into individual ramekins, then top with a small sprig of fresh herbs. You can also layer them in a casserole dish topped with extra butter and finely chopped chives before warming gently to serve family-style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay delicious for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze mashed potatoes too! Let them cool completely, then transfer into freezer-safe containers. For best texture, consume within 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating, add a splash of milk or a small knob of butter to help loosen and rehydrate the potatoes. Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep that creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Sebago, Russet, or Maris Piper are ideal for their fluffy texture, Yukon Gold potatoes also work well for a creamier, slightly denser mash. Avoid waxy potatoes as they can make the mash gluey.
Why should I warm the milk before adding it?
Using warmed milk helps keep the potatoes hot and prevents them from cooling down, ensuring your mash stays creamy and smooth without lumps or clumps.
Is it necessary to avoid using a food processor or blender?
Yes, it’s best to avoid those appliances because they can overwork the starch in the potatoes, leading to a gluey, unpleasant texture instead of smooth and fluffy mash.
Can I substitute the butter with something else?
Butter provides that rich, velvety flavor that defines this mashed potato recipe, but you can substitute with cream cheese or olive oil for a different flavor profile, keeping in mind the texture may vary.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
Swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative and use your favorite dairy-free milk, such as almond or oat milk, warmed before stirring in. You’ll still get a creamy texture with a subtle twist on flavor.
Final Thoughts
To sum it up, this Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Butter and Chives Recipe is a timeless, comforting classic that deserves a spot on your dining table. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps yield a dish that feels both homey and special. Don’t hesitate to try it—it truly is the kind of recipe that brings smiles and makes any meal feel like a celebration.
Print
Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Butter and Chives Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Western
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Mashed Potato recipe yields a smooth and luscious side dish perfect for complementing any meal. Made with tender boiled potatoes, butter, and warm milk, it delivers classic comfort food flavors with a velvety texture. Chives or parsley add a fresh, vibrant touch to the final presentation.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1.5 kg / 3 lb potatoes, peeled and cut into 2.5cm/1” cubes (preferably Sebago, Russet, or Maris Piper)
- 1 tbsp salt (for cooking)
Flavorings
- 60g / 4 tbsp unsalted butter, chopped
- 1/2 cup milk, preferably warmed
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Extra melted butter (for drizzling)
- Chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare and Boil Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot with 1 tablespoon of salt. Add enough water to cover potatoes by approximately 10cm (4 inches). Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a rapid simmer and cook for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are very soft and easily pierced with a fork.
- Drain and Evaporate Excess Water: Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Leave the potatoes in the pot for one minute, shaking occasionally to encourage evaporation of any remaining moisture.
- Add Flavorings and Mash: Add the chopped butter, warmed milk, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the potatoes. Mash the mixture well using a masher. If you prefer a looser consistency, add more warm milk gradually.
- Mash Carefully: Avoid using high-powered appliances like beaters, stick blenders, food processors, or blenders as these can make the potatoes gluey. You may pulse gently with a stand mixer or handheld mixer but stop as soon as the texture is creamy and smooth.
- Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Make swirls on top using the back of a spoon for an attractive presentation. Drizzle generously with melted butter and sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top before serving.
Notes
- Use starchy potato varieties like Sebago, Russet, or Maris Piper for the best creamy texture.
- Warming the milk before adding helps keep the potatoes hot and makes mashing easier.
- Avoid overmixing to prevent gluey mashed potatoes.
- For extra flavor, you can add roasted garlic or cream cheese as optional mix-ins.
