Learn how to make smooth, creamy, lump-free Yukon Gold mashed potatoes using a potato ricer. This foolproof method is easy and makes the creamiest pomme de terre you've ever had.
Peel 1 pound Yukon Gold Potatoes with a vegetable peeler. Cut them into 1" cubes and transfer them to a large pot. Cover with cold water by about 1 inch and add one teaspoon of the kosher salt.
Bring the pot to a boil and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and cooked through. (Test this by poking a sharp paring knife into one of the potatoes and lifting it out of the pot. If it slips easily off the knife on its own, they're done.
Drain the tubers well in a colander or sieve.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, heat 4 tablespoons butter and ¾-1 cup whole milk until warm and the butter has melted, but don't boil. When the mixture is hot, set it aside.
Fit the potato ricer with the finest (smallest) extruding disk if that's the type of ricer you're using. In batches, fill the ricer with the spuds and press into the same pot you used to cook them (to save on dishes).
After they have been processed, add the warm milk and butter mixture about ⅓ cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon after each addition, until blended and creamy.
Stir in the remaining ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon finely ground black pepper.
For stiffer spuds (to hold up to gravy, you don't have to use all the milk mixture; use about ¾ cup. For creamier potatoes, add all of it.
Transfer the Yukon Gold mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and top with an extra pat of butter if desired.
Notes
As mashed potatoes sit, they can become stiff and gluey. Stirring in warm milk and butter will loosen them and bring them back to their original glory.