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 RecipeIna 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

How To Make Ina Garten Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Season and garnish: Stir in salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley, if desired.
- Serve warm: Transfer to a serving bowl and serve hot as a comforting side dish.

Recipe Tips
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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

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 Root Vegetable Gratin Recipe
- Barefoot Contessa Creamed Onions Recipe
- Ina Garten Rich Celery Root Puree Recipe
Ina Garten Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Course: Side DishCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes25
minutes215
kcalCreamy, tangy, and fluffy mashed potatoes made with buttermilk and Yukon Golds—classic Ina Garten style.
Ingredients
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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.
