The BEST Mashed Potatoes

• 4 pounds potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
• 3 cloves garlic (optional)
• ⅓ cup melted salted butter
• 1 cup milk or cream
• salt to taste
• black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. 1

   Peel and quarter potatoes, place in a pot of cold salted water.

2. 2

   Add cloves of garlic (if using) & bring to a boil, cook uncovered 15 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain well.

3. 3

   Heat milk on the stove top (or in the microwave) until warm.

4. 4

   Add butter to the potatoes and begin mashing.

5. 5

   Pour in heated milk a little at a time while using a potato masher to reach desired consistency.

6. 6

   Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.