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Creamy Mashed Potatoes Recipe Easy Buttery Chive Topping

creamy mashed potatoes - featured image

These creamy mashed potatoes are ultra-smooth, rich, and comforting, topped with a glossy buttery chive drizzle for a pop of fresh flavor. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any time you crave a classic, crowd-pleasing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for topping
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
  • 1/4 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
  • Pinch flaky sea salt (optional, for topping)
  • 2 cloves roasted garlic, mashed (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional)
  • Parsley or green onions (optional, for topping or substitution)

Instructions

  1. Peel the potatoes and cut into even 2-inch chunks.
  2. Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water by at least 2 inches, and add 1 teaspoon salt.
  3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for 15-18 minutes until fork-tender.
  4. Drain potatoes in a colander, then return to the hot pot and let sit uncovered for 1-2 minutes to steam off excess moisture.
  5. Meanwhile, gently warm the heavy cream and 6 tablespoons butter in a small saucepan or microwave (do not boil). If using sour cream, let it come to room temperature.
  6. Mash potatoes with a potato masher or ricer until smooth. For extra creamy texture, whip with a hand mixer for 30-60 seconds (do not overmix).
  7. Add the warm cream/butter mixture and sour cream (if using). Season with black pepper. Mix until silky smooth and fully combined. Adjust consistency with more cream if needed.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, roasted garlic, or cream cheese as desired.
  9. In a small bowl, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Stir in chopped chives and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
  10. Spoon mashed potatoes into a serving bowl, create swirls, and drizzle with the buttery chive mixture.
  11. Serve hot, garnished with extra chives if desired.

Notes

For best texture, use starchy potatoes like russet or Yukon Gold. Warm dairy before adding to potatoes. Do not overmix after adding dairy to avoid gluey texture. Recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free with plant-based butter and milk. Leftovers reheat well and flavors deepen after a day in the fridge.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, buttery chive topping, comfort food, holiday side, gluten-free, easy mashed potatoes, Thanksgiving, potato recipe