Sour Cream Mashed Potato Recipe

Ramon De

2 min read

·

10-02-2025

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Ah, mashed potatoes. The quintessential comfort food, a side dish that elevates any meal from simple weeknight dinners to elegant holiday feasts. But let's be honest, sometimes plain mashed potatoes can feel a little… plain. That's where the magic of sour cream comes in. This recipe elevates the humble spud to new heights of creamy, tangy deliciousness.

Beyond the Basics: Why Sour Cream Makes All the Difference

While classic mashed potatoes are undeniably comforting, sour cream adds a layer of complexity that transforms the dish. Its tangy, slightly acidic bite cuts through the richness of the potatoes, creating a balanced flavor profile that's both satisfying and refreshing. The sour cream also contributes to an incredibly smooth, creamy texture—a luxurious mouthfeel that's hard to resist.

Ingredients: Simple and Delicious

This recipe uses readily available ingredients, ensuring a quick and easy preparation process. You'll need:

• 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat recommended for best results)
• 1/4 cup butter, unsalted
• 1/4 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: Chives or green onions for garnish

Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Boil the Potatoes: Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork (about 15-20 minutes).
2. Drain and Dry: Drain the potatoes thoroughly. It's crucial to remove as much excess water as possible for perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes. You can even let them steam dry in the pot for a few minutes.
3. Mash and Mix: Return the potatoes to the pot. Add the butter, sour cream, and milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. A potato masher works well, but you can also use an electric mixer for extra smoothness (be careful not to overmix).
4. Season to Perfection: Season generously with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately as a side dish with your favorite protein and vegetables. Garnish with freshly chopped chives or green onions for an added touch of freshness.

Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes due to their fluffy texture.
• Don't Overmash: Overmixing can lead to gummy mashed potatoes. Mash until smooth but still slightly chunky for optimal texture.
• Keep it Warm: If you need to keep the mashed potatoes warm before serving, cover the pot and place it over a low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid high heat, which can dry them out.

This sour cream mashed potato recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simple preparation and delightful flavor profile make it a perfect addition to any meal. So go ahead, give it a try, and prepare to be amazed by the transformation of this classic comfort food.