Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe for a Thanksgiving Feast to Remember

Thanksgiving isn't complete without a big bowl of creamy mashed potatoes sitting beside the turkey. If you're craving for a creamy, buttery, and simple mashed potato dish, you've come to the right place! This recipe is wonderful as a side dish for your Thanksgiving feast, as well as for quiet evenings throughout the year. I made sure to make this mashed potato recipe foolproof so read along and let's make the creamiest mashed potatoes your Christmas table has ever seen!

Why This Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a Thanksgiving Must-Have

For Thanksgiving, this mashed potatoes recipe is a must, and it's easy to see why. To begin, mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. They make you feel warm and cozy, which is great for the holiday season. There's nothing better than a side dish like these that goes well with the main course, which is your Thanksgiving turkey. The smooth texture goes well with traditional sides like stuffing, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole. It soaks up all the extra flavors and makes every bite a unity of tastes.

The fact that this recipe is so easy makes it even better for Thanksgiving. You can make mashed potatoes that taste like they were made by a chef with just a few simple items and not much work. You'll have a lot of time to work on other parts of your Thanksgiving menu, like those delicious pies and that beautiful turkey. Also, who doesn't look forward to having some mashed potatoes with gravy for lunch the next day? That's the great thing about this recipe for creamy mashed potatoes: it's not only great for Thanksgiving dinner, but it also makes the holidays feel old, warm, and joyful. This mashed potatoes recipe is a surefire way to make a side dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients for Making Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe

• 1 kilo of potatoes – Use starchy potatoes like Russets for fluffier, creamy mashed potatoes.
• 2 crushed garlic cloves (optional) – A subtle touch of garlic takes these mashed potatoes to another level.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter – Butter is what brings in the rich, creamy texture we love in mashed potatoes.
• 3/4 cup heavy cream – For that extra level of creamy goodness. You can also use milk if you want a lighter version.
• Salt and pepper to taste – The basics, but essential!
• Chopped parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Perfect for presentation!

How to Make the Creamiest Mashed Potatoes?

Step 1: Prep and Boil the Potatoes

Start by peeling the potatoes. It’s up to you if you want to keep a bit of skin for texture or go fully smooth. Cut each potato into quarters so they cook faster and more evenly.

Place the potatoes in a large pot, fill it with water until they’re just covered, and add about two teaspoons of salt to the water. This is key, as salting your water will add flavor to the potatoes as they cook. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let them cook for about 10–15 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces through.

Step 2: Drain and Mash the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are tender, drain them well and let them sit for a few minutes in the colander to release any excess moisture. Transfer them back into the pot or a large mixing bowl, and grab your potato masher, ricer, or even a fork if that’s what you have on hand.

Mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency. For extra smooth and creamy potatoes, a ricer is ideal, but a hand masher works beautifully if you prefer a bit of texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a separate pot, melt the butter over low heat. If you’re using garlic, add the crushed garlic cloves to the pot and sauté them for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Add the heavy cream and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the pot, stirring to combine. Warm this mixture until it’s smooth and hot but not boiling.

Step 4: Combine and Season

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Slowly pour the butter and cream mixture over the mashed potatoes, stirring gently with a wooden spoon. This method helps ensure a smooth, fluffy consistency. Season with more salt and pepper to taste, and give everything a good mix until creamy and well-blended.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the mashed potatoes into a serving dish and garnish with freshly ground pepper and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. The bright green parsley adds a little holiday flair and a touch of freshness. Serve hot, and watch these mashed potatoes disappear from your table in no time!

Zulay's Expert Tips for the Creamiest Mashed Potatoes

• Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a fluffier result. Yukon Golds also work well for a slightly creamier texture.
• Don’t overmix the potatoes, as this can make them gluey. Stir gently for a fluffier texture.
• Heat your cream and butter before adding them to the potatoes. This ensures everything blends smoothly and keeps the potatoes from cooling down.
• Mash the potatoes while they’re hot for a smoother consistency.
• Adjust the consistency by adding more cream or milk if you want them creamier.

Variations to Try with Your Mashed Potatoes

• Cheesy Mashed Potatoes – Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
• Herb-Infused Potatoes – Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth of flavor.
• Garlic and Chive – Increase the garlic and sprinkle with fresh chives for an herbaceous boost.
• Bacon Mashed Potatoes – Add crispy bacon bits to the mix for a smoky, savory twist.

Zulay's Final Thoughts 

This creamy mashed potatoes recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious, making it perfect for holiday dinners, cozy family meals, and every comfort-food craving in between.

At Zulay Kitchen, we’re all about helping you create memorable moments around the table. So grab your potatoes, let’s get cooking, and make this year’s Thanksgiving dinner unforgettable!

Let Us Know What You Think!

Did you try this mashed potatoes recipe for Thanksgiving? Leave us a comment below and let us know how it turned out, or tell us what you paired it with. We’d also love to hear your suggestions on what recipes to feature next.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Mashed Potatoes for Thanksgiving

Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to two days in advance. Just store them in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a bit more cream or butter to freshen them up.

What’s the best way to reheat mashed potatoes?

To reheat, place the potatoes in a pot over low heat and stir frequently. Add a splash of milk or cream to bring back that creamy texture.

Why are my mashed potatoes gluey?

This usually happens when the potatoes are overworked. Try using a potato ricer or hand masher and mix gently to avoid this.