4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1–2 cloves garlic, optional
Fresh chives or parsley, optional
1. Choose the Right Potatoes
For fluffy mashed potatoes, russet potatoes are an excellent choice because they’re naturally high in starch.
Yukon Gold potatoes are another favorite because they have a naturally buttery texture and produce wonderfully creamy mash.
You can even combine the two varieties.
2. Peel and Cut the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes if desired and cut them into similarly sized chunks.
Try to keep the pieces relatively uniform. This helps them cook at approximately the same rate.
Very large pieces may remain firm in the center while smaller pieces become overcooked.
3. Add the Cooking Liquid
Place the potatoes in a large saucepan.
Pour in enough milk, cream, broth, or a combination to come close to covering the potatoes.
Add the salt.
