Mashed potatoes are a beloved classic, perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. This recipe for Classic Mashed Potatoes is not only simple to make but also delivers the creamy, fluffy texture that everyone loves. Whether you stick with the traditional version or opt for the oil-free alternative, these mashed potatoes are sure to be a hit at your table.

Why You’ll Love These Classic Mashed Potatoes

The key to perfect mashed potatoes lies in using russet potatoes, known for their starchy texture that creates that creamy, smooth consistency we all crave. Paired with vegan butter and non-dairy milk, this recipe offers all the richness of traditional mashed potatoes, but with a plant-based twist. For those looking to avoid oils, there’s an equally delicious oil-free option that uses a creamy cauliflower mixture to achieve the same satisfying texture.

What You Need to Make Classic Mashed Potatoes:

Russet potatoes
Vegan butter (or cauliflower mixture for the oil-free option)
Non-dairy milk
Sea salt
Ground black pepper

How to Make Classic Mashed Potatoes

Cook the Potatoes: Start by peeling and cubing your russet potatoes. Add them to a large stockpot and cover with water. Generously salt the water, cover the pot, and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Let the potatoes cook for 13-15 minutes until they are fork-tender. This step ensures that your potatoes are soft and ready to be mashed to perfection.
Mash and Mix: After draining the cooked potatoes, return them to the stockpot. Add in the vegan butter, non-dairy milk, salt, and pepper. Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. The combination of vegan butter and non-dairy milk gives these mashed potatoes a rich, buttery flavor without any dairy.
Oil-Free Option: If you prefer an oil-free version, replace the vegan butter and non-dairy milk with a creamy cauliflower mixture. To make this, cook cauliflower florets in non-dairy milk until tender, then blend with nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and sea salt until smooth. Mix this cauliflower cream into your mashed potatoes for a healthy, flavorful alternative.

Tips for the Best Mashed Potatoes

Perfect Consistency: For the fluffiest mashed potatoes, avoid over-mixing. Over-mixing can cause the potatoes to become gummy. Mash just until smooth and creamy.
Customizing the Flavor: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the mix, such as roasted garlic, chives, or rosemary, to elevate the flavor of your mashed potatoes.
Make-Ahead Tip: These mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time and reheated just before serving. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and warm them on the stove with a splash of non-dairy milk.

Enjoy Your Classic Mashed Potatoes

Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty main course or as part of a festive spread, these Classic Mashed Potatoes are sure to delight. The creamy texture, combined with the comforting flavors of butter and seasoning, makes this dish a timeless favorite. And with the oil-free option, everyone at the table can enjoy this classic side in their preferred way.