These Creamy Herb Mashed Potatoes are ultra-smooth, buttery, and infused with fresh garlic and a medley of fragrant herbs—parsley, chives, and thyme. Made with Yukon Gold or russet potatoes for that perfect fluffy texture, they’re the ultimate comforting side dish that elevates any main course, from roast chicken to steak to holiday feasts. Simple ingredients, big flavor! 🥔🌿🧈

These bowls of creamy, herb-flecked mashed potatoes are pure comfort—light, fluffy, and irresistibly aromatic:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4–6 (as a side)
Calories per serving: ~310 kcal (based on 4 servings)

Ingredients

• 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cut into even chunks
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¾ cup warm milk or heavy cream (or a mix for extra richness)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)

Instructions

1. Cook the Potatoes: Place potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook 15–18 minutes until potatoes are very tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain Thoroughly: Drain potatoes well in a colander. Let them sit for 1 minute to steam off excess moisture—this helps prevent gummy mash.
3. Infuse the Butter: Return the empty pot to low heat. Add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté gently for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (don’t let the garlic brown).
4. Mash the Potatoes: Add the drained potatoes back to the pot. Using a potato masher (or ricer for ultra-smooth texture), mash until mostly smooth—no big lumps.
5. Make It Creamy: Gradually pour in the warm milk or heavy cream while mashing/stirring until you reach your desired creamy consistency. For fluffier mash, use a hand mixer on low speed for 20–30 seconds (don’t overmix or it can become gluey).
6. Season & Add Herbs: Taste and season generously with salt and black pepper. Fold in the chopped parsley, chives, and thyme leaves until evenly distributed.
7. Serve Warm: Transfer to a serving bowl, add an extra pat of butter on top if desired, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Serve immediately while hot and creamy!

Tips for the Best Mashed Potatoes

• Warm Dairy = Fluffier Mash: Heat the milk/cream slightly before adding—it incorporates more easily and keeps the potatoes from cooling too fast.
• Potato Choice: Yukon Gold gives a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture; russets yield a fluffier, more classic mash.
• Make Ahead: Prepare up to a day in advance, cool, cover, and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or in the oven covered at 325°F (160°C) for 20–30 minutes.
• Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of nutmeg, roasted garlic instead of raw, or a handful of grated Parmesan for extra richness.

These creamy herb mashed potatoes are silky, aromatic, and impossible to resist—perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday tables! Enjoy every spoonful! ✨🥄