How to Make the Perfect Irish Potatoes—Tasty & Satisfying! Learn how to prepare this classic Irish dish with simple ingredients and bold flavors. Perfectly creamy, buttery, and comforting—great for any meal!
Yields: 4-6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- Water
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus more for seasoning)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Potato masher or ricer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving dish
Let’s get started!
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel the potatoes thoroughly.
- Cut the peeled potatoes into roughly equal-sized quarters. This ensures they cook evenly.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
- Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot.
- Cover the potatoes with cold water. The water level should be about an inch above the potatoes.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork.more_vert
Step 3: Drain the Potatoes
- Once the potatoes are tender, carefully drain all the water from the pot.
- Return the empty pot with the drained potatoes to the stovetop over low heat. This helps to dry out any excess moisture, resulting in fluffier mashed potatoes. Stir the potatoes gently for about a minute.
Step 4: Mash the Potatoes
- Remove the pot from the heat. Add the butter to the hot potatoes.
- Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. If using a ricer, press the cooked potatoes through the ricer back into the pot.
Step 5: Add Milk/Cream and Season
- Pour in the milk or cream. Start with a smaller amount and add more until you reach your desired consistency.
- Stir the milk/cream into the mashed potatoes until well combined and the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
- Season the mashed potatoes with freshly ground black pepper and additional salt to taste. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish (Optional)
- Transfer the creamy Irish potatoes to a serving dish.
- If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a touch of color and flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade Irish potatoes!
Pro Tips
- Extra Fluffy: Use a potato ricer for lump-free mash.
- Creamier: Substitute buttermilk for regular milk.
- Leftovers? Pan-fry as potato cakes the next day.
Serving Ideas
- With Stew: Pair with Irish lamb stew or corned beef.
- As a Side: Serve alongside pan-seared salmon or sausages.
Enjoy your comforting and classic Irish potato side dish!
