# Foolproof Creamy Mashed Potatoes

This recipe will yield smooth, creamy mashed potatoes that pair perfectly with your Balsamic Chicken and Caramelized Onions.

## Ingredients:

- 2 pounds russet potatoes (about 4 large potatoes)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or more for desired consistency)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste (start with 1 tsp)
- 1/4 tsp white pepper (or black pepper if white is unavailable)
- Optional: 2 cloves of garlic, peeled (for garlic mashed potatoes)

## Instructions:

1. Prep the potatoes (5 minutes):
   - Peel the potatoes and cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes. Try to keep the sizes consistent for even cooking.
   - As you cut, place the potato cubes in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning.

2. Cook the potatoes (15-20 minutes):
   - Drain the potatoes and place them in a large pot.
   - Add enough cold water to cover the potatoes by about an inch.
   - Add 1 tsp of salt and the garlic cloves (if using) to the water.
   - Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
   - Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces the potato cubes.

3. Prepare for mashing (5 minutes):
   - While the potatoes are cooking, in a small saucepan, combine the butter, milk, and cream.
   - Heat over low heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm. Keep warm.

4. Drain and dry the potatoes (2 minutes):
   - Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander.
   - Return the empty pot to the stove over low heat.
   - Add the drained potatoes back to the pot and gently shake for about 30 seconds. This helps excess moisture evaporate, leading to fluffier potatoes.

5. Mash the potatoes (5 minutes):
   - Remove the pot from heat.
   - If you used garlic cloves, mash them with a fork and mix into the potatoes.
   - Use a potato masher or a hand mixer on low speed to begin mashing the potatoes.
   - Gradually add the warm butter-milk mixture, continuing to mash.
   - Add salt and white pepper.

6. Finish and adjust (2 minutes):
   - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
   - If the potatoes are too thick, add more warm milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

## Notes:
- For extra smooth potatoes, you can pass them through a ricer before adding the butter-milk mixture.
- Be careful not to overmix if using a hand mixer, as this can make the potatoes gluey.
- These mashed potatoes can be made ahead and kept warm in a covered dish in a low oven (200°F) for up to 2 hours.

## Serving suggestion:
Serve these creamy mashed potatoes alongside your Balsamic Chicken with Caramelized Onions. The smooth, buttery potatoes will provide a perfect contrast to the tangy, savory chicken dish.