---
title: Once a Year Mashed Potatoes
author: Chef John
servings: 8
prep_time: 15m
cook_time: 25m
tags:
  - side
  - potatoes
  - thanksgiving
  - holiday
  - comfort-food
source: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/8348734/chef-johns-ultimate-mashed-potatoes/
---

Peel @russet potatoes{3.25%lbs} (smaller potatoes preferred) and cut into quarters. Transfer to a bowl of cold water to rinse off excess surface starch. Drain.

Transfer potatoes to a #large pot{} of cold water and salt the water very generously with @kosher salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer until tender and pierced easily with a knife, ~boil{20%to 25%minutes}.

Meanwhile, cut @unsalted European butter{1%lb} into chunks and let come to room temperature.

Drain potatoes thoroughly in a #colander{}. Return drained potatoes to the warm pot over medium-low heat. Mash with a #potato masher{} until broken down. Season with @kosher salt and @freshly ground black pepper.

Add 1/4 of the softened butter chunks and mash until mostly incorporated.

Add another 1/4 of the butter and mix with a #wire whisk{} until absorbed. Whisk in the remaining half of the butter in two additions until potatoes are ultra-smooth, silky, and creamy.

Whisk in @hot milk{1/4%cup} until incorporated. Adjust seasoning with a tiny pinch of @cayenne pepper (optional) and additional salt if needed. Serve hot immediately.