Southern Style Mashed Potatoes Recipe

I enjoy preparing a dish featuring 4 lbs russet potatoes, whole milk and unsalted butter that yield perfect Homemade Mashed Potatoes. A hint of garlic powder and splash of buttermilk add character. This simple, budget recipe is comfort food Southern at its best, a welcome addition to the dinner table.

I recently discovered a way of making my favorite Southern Style Mashed Potatoes that totally blew my mind. I couldn’t believe how simple and budget-friendly it was, yet the result is one of the ultimate comfort foods around.

I started with 4 lbs of russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks, and cooked them until they were just tender. Then I mashed them with 1/2 cup whole milk and 1/2 cup unsalted butter pieces, which gave them such a creamy texture.

Sometimes I’ll sneak in 1/4 cup buttermilk too, just for that extra layer of creaminess. A little salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper and a pinch of garlic powder make everything sing.

Its simplicity makes it perfect not only for Thanksgiving leftovers or a comforting side dish but also for when you want to try something new, like mashed potato patties. Enjoy this taste of Southern cooking with every bite.

Why I Like this Recipe

I really love this recipe because it makes the creamiest mashed potatoes I’ve ever had and its super comforting. The smooth, buttery texture just reminds me of cozy family dinners, and I always feel so happy eating it. I also like that it’s really simple and budget friendly so even when I’m short on cash, I know I can whip up something delicious. Plus, the recipe is really flexible so I can add a little extra garlic or buttermilk if I’m feelin experimental, which makes it feel fun and personal every time I cook it.

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes: Rich in carbohydrates and fiber, they give a hearty and smooth base.
• Whole milk: Adds creaminess and protein, giving the mash a rich, velvety taste.
• Unsalted butter: It brings a smooth, rich flavor, though you should use it in moderation.
• Buttermilk: Optional but adds a tangy, extra creaminess and a slight sour note to balance flavors.
• Spices: Salt, pepper, and garlic powder enhance dish flavor with subtle seasoning and warmth.
• Health note: Though natural, the recipe is calorie rich so enjoy in moderate portions.
• Nutritional Info: Carbohydrates in potatoes fuel energy, while dairy adds protein and essential fats.
• Overall: Simple, comforting dish ideal for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1/4 cup buttermilk (optional for extra creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional if you like a hint of garlic)

How to Make this

1. Peel the potatoes and cut em into chunks.

2. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt then bring the water to a boil.

3. Let the potatoes cook until they are soft and fork tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.

4. While the potatoes are boiling, gently warm the milk, butter, and buttermilk (if you’re using it) in a small saucepan or in the microwave so the butter melts.

5. Drain the potatoes then return them to the pot or a large bowl.

6. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher until they start to get creamy.

7. Slowly stir in the warm milk, butter, and buttermilk mixture to get that smooth texture, but dont over do it or they may turn gluey.

8. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if you like a hint of garlic, then mix well to combine all the flavors.

9. Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust the seasoning if needed.

10. Serve hot and enjoy one of the ultimate comfort foods at dinner time.

Equipment Needed

1. Knife and cutting board for peeling and chopping the potatoes
2. Large pot for boiling the potatoes on the stove
3. Stove to bring water to a boil and warm the milk and butter
4. Colander to drain the potatoes after boiling
5. Measuring cups and spoons to accurately measure the milk, butter, and buttermilk
6. Small saucepan or a microwave-safe container for gently warming the milk, butter, and buttermilk
7. Potato masher to mash the cooked potatoes
8. Large bowl (or you can use the same large pot) to mix and serve the mashed potatoes

FAQ

Southern Style Mashed Potatoes Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• For whole milk, you can substitute with heavy cream diluted with a bit of water to keep it lighter.
• If you don’t have unsalted butter, go with salted butter but just cut back on the extra salt.
• You can swap out the buttermilk by mixing one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1/4 cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
• Instead of garlic powder, try using a little bit of fresh minced garlic if you like a stronger garlic flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Start the potatoes in cold water so they cook more evenly and don’t end up with a mushy outside and a harder center
2. Warm up your milk and butter mixture gently before adding it to the mash, this helps keep it smooth and avoids that gluey texture
3. Dont overdo the mashing; if you mash too much it can turn into a sticky mess, so use a potato masher and stir in the liquids just until combined
4. Taste as you go and add the garlic powder in small amounts if you like that subtle kick instead of overpowering the flavor