Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Category: Side Dishes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (preferably starchy) | 1 kg |
| Whole Milk | 200 ml |
| Butter | 30 g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP (Grated) | 30 g |
| Fine Salt | to taste |
| Nutmeg (Freshly Grated) | to taste |
Instructions
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Prepare the Potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Then, place them in a large pot and cover with cold water, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat slightly and simmer for 30 to 50 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. Use a fork to check if they are fully cooked – if the tines of the fork slide in easily, the potatoes are done.
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Drain and Cool: After the potatoes are cooked, carefully drain them and allow them to cool for just a few minutes. You want them to be warm enough to handle but not too hot to peel.
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Peel and Mash: Once cooled slightly, peel the potatoes, discarding the skins. Use a potato masher or a potato ricer to mash them directly into the same pot where they were cooked. If you prefer a chunkier texture, a fork will suffice, though this will result in a less smooth consistency.
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Season the Mashed Potatoes: Add a pinch of fine salt to the mashed potatoes to season. Then, grate a small amount of fresh nutmeg and sprinkle it into the potatoes. Stir to incorporate the flavors. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that elevates the flavor profile of the dish.
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Heat the Milk: While the potatoes are being mashed, place the milk in a small saucepan over low heat. Allow it to warm up gently, but do not let it come to a boil.
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Combine and Cream: Once the milk is heated, return the pot with mashed potatoes to the stove on a low flame. Slowly pour in the warm milk, stirring constantly. You may not need to use all the milk, so pour gradually until the desired consistency is achieved. The goal is a smooth and creamy texture.
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Finish the Dish: Remove the pot from the heat and add the butter and freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Stir until both are fully melted and the potatoes become velvety smooth. The cheese will add a lovely depth of flavor, while the butter creates a rich, creamy texture.
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Final Touches: Give the mashed potatoes one last stir to ensure everything is fully incorporated and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or nutmeg if desired.
Serve your creamy mashed potatoes immediately as a perfect side dish to any meal, whether it’s a holiday dinner or a comforting weeknight feast.
Enjoy the luxurious, creamy texture of these mashed potatoes that are just the right balance of buttery richness, cheesy depth, and a hint of warm spice from the nutmeg. This simple, yet elevated, dish will quickly become a family favorite!
Tips:
- For an extra creamy texture, you can substitute part of the milk with heavy cream.
- You can also experiment with adding other cheeses like Gruyère or Cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the mashed potatoes up to step 7 and store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore the creamy texture.
This Creamy Mashed Potatoes recipe is easy to make, deliciously comforting, and perfect for any occasion. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, stews, and grilled vegetables, adding that extra touch of comfort to any meal.
