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Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe 

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Idaho mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This easy recipe is made with just a few simple ingredients: Idaho potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper.

Bowl of Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe

These classic and simple Idaho mashed potatoes are smooth and creamy. Made without any extra ingredients that take away the naturally delicious potato flavor. 

Mashed potatoes are a dish of boiled potatoes that have been mashed or blended until smooth. They are often served as a perfect side dish, but can also be used as a filling for other dishes, such as shepherd’s pie. Whether you choose Yukon gold potatoes, red potatoes, or real Idaho potatoes – this is the recipe I follow.

The History Of Idaho Mashed Potatoes

The history of mashed potatoes is long and complex. The first recorded recipe for mashed potatoes dates back to the 16th century, but it is likely that they were eaten long before that. Mashed potatoes were originally a simple dish, made by boiling potatoes and then mashing them with a fork or pestle.

Pile of potatoes to make Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe

 However, over time, they became more elaborate, with the addition of butter, milk, cream, and other ingredients.

Mashed potatoes became popular in Europe in the 18th century, and they were brought to the Americas by European settlers. They quickly became a staple food in the United States, and they are now enjoyed by people all over the world.

​Are Potatoes Good For You?

Potatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. They are also a good source of dietary fiber. Potatoes are low in calories and fat, and they can be a part of a healthy diet.

peeling potatoes to make Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Here are some of the health benefits of potatoes:

  • Potatoes are a good source of potassium, which is an important mineral for heart health.
  • Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that can help boost the immune system.
  • Potatoes are a good source of vitamin B6, which is involved in many bodily functions, including the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood.
  • Potatoes are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health.
  • Potatoes are low in calories and fat, and they can be a part of a healthy diet.

However, it is important to note that potatoes can also be high in carbohydrates, so it is important to eat them in moderation.

Ingredients For Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe

This recipe makes 8 cups of mashed potatoes. 

1. 5-pound bag of Idaho Potatoes

2. 8 tablespoons of butter (one whole stick)

3. 1 cup of half and half – more or less depending on how creamy you want your potatoes. I add this ingredient by eye, a little at a time. 

4. Salt and Pepper to taste.

Instructions On How To Make Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe

To make Idaho mashed potatoes, start by boiling the potatoes until they are tender. Then, drain the potatoes and mash them until they are smooth. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the potatoes and stir until everything is combined. 

1. Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them in half and then into sections.

peeled and cut potato on a cutting board

2. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a couple of teaspoons of salt to the water. 

putting salt into the potato water on the stove

3. Cover and bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then tilt the lid and reduce heat to medium and boil for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are fork tender.

large pot of boiling potatoes on the stove

4. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Add butter and mash with a potato masher to break them up.

potatoes in a strainer to make Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe

5. Add the half and half, salt, and pepper and mash until smooth and fully combined. 

mashing potatoes with cream in a large metal pot

6. Serve immediately.

Notes:

  • Cooking times may vary depending on how large you cut your potato pieces.
  • Milk will be good but not as creamy as half and half. 
  • You can make half and half by mixing equal parts milk and heavy cream.

Tips For Making Good Mashed Potatoes

Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe in a metal pot
  • You can make these ahead of time by peeling and cutting the potatoes and covering them with water. Just leave them in the pot until it’s time to cook for dinner. (I like to prep them in the morning)
  • Use a hand masher – they will be less starchy.
  • Starting with cold water helps cook the potato piece more evenly than hot water. 
  • For a creamier texture, add more milk.
  • For a richer flavor, add more butter.
  • Taste and season with salt and pepper as you go. 
  • For a different flavored dish, add garlic powder, cream cheese, onion powder, or chives to the potatoes.
  • For a lighter version, you can substitute chicken broth for the dairy.

Table Showing How Much Mashed Potatoes Per Person

Pounds of PotatoesServings Size = one cupHow Much Does it Make (cups)
5 88
466.4
3 4-54.8
233.2
11-21.6

What to Eat Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe With

Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe being mashed in a pot

I don’t know you personally, so I can’t say for sure what you love to eat mashed potatoes with. However, some popular things to eat mashed potatoes with include:

Leftover Mashed Potatoes

  • Add them to a breakfast burrito or omelet.
  • Make a potato pancake or croquettes.
  • Stuff them into a pepper or tomato.
  • Use them as a topping for a shepherd’s pie or lasagna.
  • Add them to a soup or stew.
  • Make a potato salad or hash.
  • Freeze them for later use.

Store any leftover mashed potatoes in the refrigerator. They reheat nicely in the microwave and stirring frequently. They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Wrapping Up Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Today, there are many different ways to make mashed potatoes. Some people prefer to use russet potatoes, while others prefer Yukon Golds or red potatoes. Some people add milk and cream, while others prefer to use butter or olive oil.

And some people add herbs, spices, or other ingredients to give their mashed potatoes a unique flavor. No matter how they are made, mashed potatoes are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Big bowl of Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe on a wooden board

We love mashed potatoes at our house! Whether they are served for a special holiday meal, on Thanksgiving day, or just a Sunday dinner real potatoes give a meal a homemade taste. Some of the best potatoes are those that are enjoyed by the whole family.

These mashed potatoes are a perfect first food for toddlers and have a great taste for picky eaters. Try them with these baked chicken breasts or this pulled pork! There are some great recipes to make mashed potatoes but my favorite way is just like this – plain and simple. 

Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Large bowl of Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Classic And Simple Idaho Mashed Potatoes Recipe

This easy recipe is made with just a few simple ingredients: Idaho potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper. These classic and simple Idaho mashed potatoes are smooth and creamy. 
Makes 8 cups of mashed potatoes.
Print Recipe
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
5 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes

Equipment

  • 1 Potato Masher

Ingredients

  • 1 5 pound bag Idaho potatoes
  • 8 tbsp Butter
  • 1 cup Half & Half
  • Salt & Pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them in half and then into quarters.
  • Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a couple of teaspoons of salt to the water. 
  • Cover and bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then tilt the lid and reduce heat to medium and boil for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are fork tender.
  • Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Add butter and mash with a potato masher to break them up.
  • Add the half and half, salt, and pepper and mash until smooth and fully combined. 
  • Enjoy!

Notes

Notes:
  • Cooking times may vary depending on how large you cut your potato pieces.
  • Milk will be good but not as creamy as half and half. 
  • You can make half and half by mixing equal parts milk and heavy cream
  • Make ahead – peel potatoes and cover with water. Let them rest until you want to cook them later. (8 hours)
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8 people
Author: Sarah

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