Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Homemade Gravy
By Daniel Brooks · How To Cook Easily
Make creamy mashed potatoes and rich brown gravy with practical tips for fluffy potatoes, smooth sauce, make-ahead prep, storage, and troubleshooting.

- Prep
- 20 min
- Cook
- 30 min
- Serves
- 8
- Calories
- 310 per serving
About this recipe
Fluffy mashed potatoes and smooth, savory brown gravy make a dependable Thanksgiving side. Use a few simple techniques for a creamy texture, a lump-free sauce, and easier make-ahead prep.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into even chunks
- 1 tablespoon fine salt, plus more to taste
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup warm whole milk, plus more as needed
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for gravy
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Add 1 tablespoon salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a steady simmer and cook 15 to 20 minutes, until a knife slides easily into the largest piece.
- Drain well and return the potatoes to the warm pot for 1 minute to let excess steam escape.
- Mash while hot, then fold in softened butter, warm milk, pepper, and salt to taste. Add more milk a tablespoon at a time for a softer texture.
- For gravy, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until pale golden.
- Slowly whisk in broth, a little at a time, until smooth. Add onion powder and pepper.
- Simmer 5 to 8 minutes, whisking often, until glossy and thick enough to coat a spoon. Season to taste.
- Serve the potatoes warm with gravy alongside or spooned over the top.