Ina Garten Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Ina Garten Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe

This Ina Garten Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe is creamy and tangy, which includes Yukon Gold potatoes and buttermilk. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 35 minutes.

Jump to Recipe

Ina Garten Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Ingredients

  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt (for boiling water)
  • 1 cup buttermilk, shaken
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1½ teaspoons kosher salt (for seasoning)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Ina Garten Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Ina Garten Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe

How To Make Ina Garten Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes

  1. Boil the potatoes: Place the peeled, chopped potatoes in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 20–25 minutes, or until fork-tender.
  2. Warm the buttermilk and butter: While the potatoes are cooking, warm the buttermilk and butter in a small saucepan over low heat just until the butter melts. Do not boil.
  3. Drain and dry: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the hot pot. Let them sit uncovered for 2–3 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
  4. Mash the potatoes: Use a potato masher or electric mixer to mash the potatoes. Slowly add the warm buttermilk mixture, mashing until smooth and fluffy.
  5. Season and garnish: Stir in salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley, if desired.
  6. Serve warm: Transfer to a serving bowl and serve hot as a comforting side dish.
Ina Garten Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Ina Garten Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Recipe Tips

  • Can I use russet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold?
    Yes, but Yukon Golds give a naturally buttery texture and flavor.
  • What if I don’t have buttermilk?
    Use regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
  • How to make them extra creamy:
    Use a ricer or food mill for the smoothest texture.
  • Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes, reheat gently with a splash of milk to loosen the consistency.
  • How much salt should I add overall?
    Start with the recipe amount and adjust to taste once mashed.

What To Serve With Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes pair perfectly with hearty main dishes like:

  • Roast chicken or turkey
  • Meatloaf or pot roast
  • Garlic herb pork chops
  • Gravy and green beans
  • Salmon or baked cod
Ina Garten Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Ina Garten Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe

How To Store Mashed Potatoes

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freeze: For best texture, freeze in portions and reheat with a bit of cream or butter.

Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 215 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 23mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Calcium: 75mg
  • Potassium: 620mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and serving size.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat buttermilk?
Yes, but full-fat gives a richer flavor and creamier texture.

How do I keep mashed potatoes warm for a party?
Keep them in a slow cooker on the warm setting with a lid.

Can I add garlic or cheese?
Absolutely! Add roasted garlic, cream cheese, or shredded Parmesan for extra flavor.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?
For the smoothest mash, yes. But you can leave skins on for a more rustic texture.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure your pot is large enough and adjust seasonings to taste.

Try More Recipes:

Ina Garten Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Recipe by SarahCourse: Side DishCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes
Calories

215

kcal

Creamy, tangy, and fluffy mashed potatoes made with buttermilk and Yukon Golds—classic Ina Garten style.

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped

  • 1 tbsp kosher salt (for boiling water)

  • 1 cup buttermilk, shaken

  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 1½ tsp kosher salt (for seasoning)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • Optional: chopped chives or parsley

Directions

  • Boil potatoes in salted water for 20–25 minutes until fork-tender.
  • Warm buttermilk and butter gently on low heat.
  • Drain potatoes and let sit 2–3 minutes.
  • Mash, gradually adding the buttermilk mixture.
  • Stir in salt and pepper; garnish as desired.
  • Serve warm as a side dish.

Sarra

I’m Sarra Jhonson, the cook behind Tasty Treats Daily. In my tiny apartment kitchen, I try all kinds of recipes—weeknight dinners, baked treats, and quick sides—then refine them until they’re reliable. I write clear, step-by-step instructions in plain language, and I share what worked, what didn’t, and the tips that make it easier at home.