There’s nothing quite like the comfort of creamy, rich mashed potatoes, and this recipe for Creamy Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes is sure to win over every member of your family! The addition of sour cream takes this classic side dish to a whole new level of tangy, velvety goodness. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast, Sunday dinner, or just a simple weeknight meal, these mashed potatoes pair beautifully with just about everything. They’re also incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to become a go-to recipe in your home.
I’ve made these mashed potatoes for countless gatherings, and they’re always a hit with adults and kids alike. The sour cream gives them a lovely flavor that’s not overpowering, and the creamy texture is downright irresistible. Let’s make some magic!
What You’ll Need
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup whole milk (or more, if needed)
- 1 tsp salt, plus more for boiling water
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Pro Tips
- Cut potatoes evenly: Make sure to cube the potatoes into even sizes so they cook evenly and mash smoothly.
- Don’t overwork the potatoes: Over-mixing can make mashed potatoes gluey, so stick to mashing gently until smooth.
- Warm the milk and butter: Heat the milk and butter before adding them to the potatoes to keep everything warm and ensure a smooth mix.
- Season the water: Add plenty of salt to the boiling water—it’s your chance to flavor the potatoes as they cook.
- Add sour cream gradually: If you prefer a subtler tang, add the sour cream a bit at a time until you reach your desired flavor.
Tools Required
- Large pot
- Potato masher or ricer
- Slotted spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Substitutions and Variations
- No sour cream? Swap it with plain Greek yogurt for a similar tangy creaminess.
- Dairy-free option: Use vegan butter and almond or oat milk. You can also try coconut cream for a unique flavor.
- Extra flavor boost: Stir in roasted garlic or a handful of shredded Parmesan for a gourmet twist.
- Chunkier texture: Leave the potato skins on and mash lightly for a more rustic dish.
Make-Ahead Tips
- You can make the mashed potatoes up to one day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk if needed to restore the creamy texture.
Instructions
1. Prep the Potatoes
Peel and cube the potatoes into evenly sized chunks (about 1 ½-inch pieces).
2. Boil the Potatoes
Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous amount of salt to the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Drain and Mash
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Let them sit for 1-2 minutes to release excess moisture. Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes until smooth.
4. Add the Creamy Ingredients
Add the butter, warm milk, sour cream, salt, and garlic powder (if using). Gently fold the ingredients into the potatoes until well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish. Swirl the top with a spoon and add a pat of butter for presentation. Sprinkle with chopped chives, if desired. Serve warm.
Tips for Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently: Warm leftovers in a pot over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Freeze: Mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as described above.
Conclusion
There you have it—luxuriously creamy, tangy, and comforting mashed potatoes that are perfect for any occasion. I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your home, just like it has in mine! Let me know in the comments how your batch turned out or if you tried any fun variations. Happy cooking, and enjoy every fluffy, buttery bite!
