Our Favourite Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026
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These creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, offering a luxurious texture that elevates any roast dinner or mid-week meal. By simmering the potatoes with whole garlic cloves and infusing the milk with fresh thyme, you achieve a deep, savoury flavour that far surpasses standard recipes. Using Yukon Gold potatoes ensures a naturally buttery base, while the addition of soured cream provides a subtle, sophisticated tang.
This vegetarian side dish is remarkably versatile and can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for hosting Sunday lunch or Christmas dinner. For the best results, always use a potato ricer to avoid a heavy consistency, and be careful not to overmix. Serve these alongside a rich gravy or roasted vegetables for a truly satisfying homemade accompaniment.
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Ingredients for Our Favourite Creamy Mashed Potatoes
1.8kg Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled, cut into 2" pieces
6 large garlic cloves, peeled
1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided, plus more
300ml whole milk
4 thyme sprigs
180ml (1 1/2 sticks) plus 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
3/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, plus more
120ml soured cream
A potato ricer or food mill
How to make Our Favourite Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Back to contentsCover potatoes, garlic, and 1 tablespoon salt with cold water in a large pot. Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat and simmer (do not boil) until potatoes are very tender when pierced with the tip of a paring knife but not falling apart, 20–25 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat milk, thyme, and 180ml butter in a small pot over medium, stirring, until butter is melted. Remove from heat; set aside.
Drain potatoes and garlic; return to pot. Toss over low heat until moisture evaporates, 1–2 minutes. Using potato ricer or food mill, immediately press potatoes and garlic into a large bowl (do not let cool).
Discard thyme from milk mixture and gradually stir into potatoes, reserving about 120ml if you plan to make in advance (see Do Ahead). Season with 2 teaspoons salt and 3/4 teaspoons pepper. Fold in soured cream and stir with a spoon until incorporated and very smooth (do not overmix or potatoes will become gummy). Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve topped with remaining 2 tablespoons butter and more pepper.
Mashed potatoes can be made 2 hours ahead; cover and store at room temperature. Or chill, covered, up to 8 hours; reheat over medium with reserved 120ml milk mixture.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
28 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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