Best Potatoes for Mashed Potatoes
Gold potatoes are our favorite for making mashed potatoes as we find they are the most buttery. We also love the rustic look they lend if some of the skins are left on. While other potatoes will work in a pinch, we find that russet potatoes can be kind of mealy and red potatoes kind of waxy.
How to Make Mashed Potatoes
It starts with boiling the potatoes in a large pot with water. While opinions vary on using hot vs. cold water to start, we opt for cool or room temperature water for best results. The other important factor is amount: Fill the water line about 1 inch above the potatoes so they cook evenly but aren’t so submerged that the water takes longer to boil.
How long to boil potatoes for mashed potatoes?
The length of time it takes for the potatoes to boil will vary depending on their size, type, and the intensity of the boil. As a general rule, you want to cook them until they are tender enough to slide easily off of a sharp knife when pierced. For medium gold potatoes cut into sixths (see photo for size reference), boil on medium-high for ~20 minutes.
Strain & Mash
Next, turn off the heat, strain the potatoes, and return them to the cooking pot. Then use a potato masher (or a large fork) to mash the potatoes. Next comes the best part: flavor. We add minced garlic for that classic garlic mashed potatoes taste, dairy-free butter for buttery richness, and dairy-free milk for added moisture to help make them rich and creamy. Salt and pepper add the finishing touch.
What to do with leftover mashed potatoes?
These mashed potatoes are so delicious that we doubt you’ll have leftovers. But if you do, try repurposing them in our Lentil Mushroom Stew Over Mashed Potatoes, 1-Hour Vegan Shepherd’s Pie, or Aloo Tikki (Indian Potato Cakes with Green Chutney).
Can you freeze mashed potatoes?
Or, if you need a little break from mashed potatoes, try freezing them for later! When ready to eat, reheat mashed potatoes in a saucepan on the stovetop to evaporate any excess moisture generated from freezing. Though not as tasty as fresh, this is a good method for using up leftovers. We hope you LOVE these mashed potatoes. They’re: CreamyButtery & garlickyCustomizableEasy& So Delicious! This is the perfect side for the holiday season and beyond. If you’re looking for a lower carb option, check out our Vegan Garlic Mashed Cauliflower. Both would be incredibly delicious with this Easy Vegan Gravy.
What to Serve with Mashed Potatoes
The options are endless, but here are a few pairing ideas:
Vegan Lentil Nut “Meatloaf” Asparagus Zucchini Gratin (V/GF) Vegan Green Bean Casserole Vegan Cornbread Stuffing White Bean Kale Salad with Tahini Dressing
If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo #minimalistbaker on Instagram. Cheers, friends!
