Creamy, smooth and full of flavor, this Ina Garten Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a classic side dish. It is easy to make and always delicious.
Perfect for family dinners, holidays or special occasions. If you want to learn How to make Ina Garten Mashed Potatoes, this guide will help you step by step.
The Ingredients for Ina Garten Mashed Potatoes are simple and easy to find. These mashed potatoes are buttery, rich and comforting. They pair well with almost any main dish and are always a hit.
My Experience With This Recipe
The first time I made this recipe, I was amazed at how creamy the potatoes turned out. The secret is using Yukon Gold potatoes and plenty of butter.
The texture was silky and the flavor was rich but not heavy. Everyone at the table loved it and the dish disappeared quickly.
Now, I make this Ina Garten Mashed Potatoes Recipe for holidays and family dinners. It is reliable, simple and always impressive.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Ina Garten Mashed Potatoes
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Course: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 250 kcal per serving

Equipment List
- Large pot
- Potato masher or ricer
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Serving bowl
Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Mashed Potatoes
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and cut potatoes into even chunks. This helps them cook evenly. Rinse under cold water to remove excess starch.
2. Boil the Potatoes
Place potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook Until Tender
Reduce heat to medium. Simmer potatoes for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Test with a fork to ensure they are soft.
4. Heat the Milk and Butter
While potatoes cook, heat milk and butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Warm until butter melts. Do not boil.
5. Drain the Potatoes
Drain the cooked potatoes in a colander. Return them to the pot. Let them sit for a minute to dry slightly.
6. Mash the Potatoes
Use a potato masher or ricer to mash the potatoes until smooth. Avoid overmixing, which can make them gluey.
7. Add Milk and Butter
Gradually add the warm milk and butter mixture. Stir gently until creamy and smooth.
8. Season the Potatoes
Add salt, black pepper and optional sour cream. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Stir until fully incorporated.
9. Serve Immediately
Transfer mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Serve hot with your favorite main dish. Enjoy the creamy, buttery flavor.
Recipe Tips
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy texture.
- Warm the milk and butter before adding to potatoes.
- Do not overmix to prevent gluey mashed potatoes.
- Add sour cream for extra richness.
- Season gradually and taste while mixing.
- Use a ricer for the smoothest texture.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Ina Garten Mashed Potatoes Recipe pairs well with roasted meats, chicken, turkey or fish. Serve with gravy for extra flavor.
Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for a bright touch. Perfect for holiday dinners, cozy family meals or any special occasion.
Best Sides To Serve With
Serve alongside roasted chicken, turkey, beef or pork. Pair with green beans, glazed carrots or sautéed spinach. Gravy, cranberry sauce or sautéed mushrooms complement the creamy potatoes perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent drying.

Ina Garten Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons sour cream optional for extra creaminess
Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and cut potatoes into even chunks. This helps them cook evenly. Rinse under cold water to remove excess starch.
Boil the Potatoes
- Place potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Cook Until Tender
- Reduce heat to medium. Simmer potatoes for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Test with a fork to ensure they are soft.
Heat the Milk and Butter
- While potatoes cook, heat milk and butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Warm until butter melts. Do not boil.
Drain the Potatoes
- Drain the cooked potatoes in a colander. Return them to the pot. Let them sit for a minute to dry slightly.
Mash the Potatoes
- Use a potato masher or ricer to mash the potatoes until smooth. Avoid overmixing, which can make them gluey.
Add Milk and Butter
- Gradually add the warm milk and butter mixture. Stir gently until creamy and smooth.
Season the Potatoes
- Add salt, black pepper and optional sour cream. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Stir until fully incorporated.
Serve Immediately
- Transfer mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Serve hot with your favorite main dish. Enjoy the creamy, buttery flavor.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy texture.
- Warm the milk and butter before adding to potatoes.
- Do not overmix to prevent gluey mashed potatoes.
- Add sour cream for extra richness.
- Season gradually and taste while mixing.
- Use a ricer for the smoothest texture.
FAQs about Ina Garten Mashed Potatoes
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare mashed potatoes a day ahead. Store in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stove with a little milk.
2. Can I use another type of potato?
Yes, Russet potatoes work, but Yukon Gold gives creamier and richer mashed potatoes. Russets may need more milk for smooth texture.
3. How do I make potatoes extra creamy?
Use a potato ricer and warm milk with butter. Adding a small amount of sour cream also helps achieve a silky texture.
4. Can I freeze mashed potatoes?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to two months. Reheat gently with a little milk, stirring to restore creaminess.
5. Can I add garlic or cheese?
Yes, roasted garlic or shredded cheese can be added for flavor. Mix gently into warm mashed potatoes for extra richness.
Conclusion
This Ina Garten Mashed Potatoes Recipe is creamy, buttery and perfect for any meal.
Now you know How to make Ina Garten Mashed Potatoes step by step. The Ingredients for Ina Garten Mashed Potatoes are simple and easy to find.
Serve them hot with your favorite main dishes. This classic side dish will impress family and friends while adding comfort and flavor to every meal.

Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!
















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