Mike's Simple & Delicious Mashed Potatoes

I cannot take any credit for this recipe.  It is all Mike.  But, I thought I'd share it because it is requested by my mom and sister on a regular basis for holidays or dinners together.  AKA... they are delicious!

Here is the recipe :).  

Mike's Simple & Delicious Mashed Potatoes

* makes for >15 people (Holiday amount cooking ;))

Ingredients

• 5 lbs russet potatoes, peeled (try to stick to starchy potatoes so that it won't become gummy)
• 1 1/4 cups whole milk (can substitute almond milk)
• 1 1/3 stick of unsalted butter at room temperature 
• 1 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1 1/2 tsp of black pepper (we like it peppery, so just add as much as you like)
• 1 Tbsp fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped for garnish (optional but for a holiday it makes it look pretty)

Directions

1. Bring large pot of water to a boil (even water so that all your potatoes can fit).
2. Peel and dice potatoes into large pieces (2-3 inch in diameter otherwise they soak up too much water).  Try to make them around the same size so they cook equally.
3. Boil potatoes until soft and easily pierced with a knife (~20 minutes)
4. Drain potatoes and transfer to a bowl.  Use a standing mixer (with whisk attachment) and start mixing the potatoes on low speed for about 30 seconds the increase to medium.  As you are mixing add the milk in slowly. 
5. Then with mixer on, add the softened butter about 1-2 tbsp at a time.
6. Do not over mix the potatoes.  You want them to be whipped and fluffy. 
7. Finally add in salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with herbs before serving and done :)

   

   Mike making pretzels with our new mixer that my mom gave us. 
   It is actually a super old and heavy (like 25 lbs) but it works
   GREAT! p.s. Mike does not like smiling apparently ;)