Southern Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes

This is the best Southern-style Creamy Mashed Potatoes recipe made with buttermilk. Pair this classic, old-fashioned dish with any soul food meal drizzled in homemade gravy.

What Type of Potatoes to Use

The type you use will depend on the texture you are going for. Russet potatoes are really starchy and they are fluffy. Yukon gold potatoes have smooth, waxy flesh, that is also moist. Red potatoes are similar to Yukon and are really creamy. If you want super smooth potatoes you can use Yukon gold or red potatoes.

How to Season the Potatoes

Potatoes are bland on their own. Spices and salt are a must. I love to use garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Other spices I love to add from time to time are smoked paprika, Cajun Seasoning, or Creole seasoning for extra flavor and a twist.

How to Get the Potatoes Creamy

Buttermilk and sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt) will make these potatoes super creamy, especially if you use gold potatoes. Buttermilk has lactic acid that will result in creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes. It’s a game-changing ingredient.

Do You Leave the Skin on the Potatoes

This is up to you. The skin has lots of nutrients, so it’s beneficial. You can remove the skin if you wish.

How to Make Southern Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes

Detailed measurements and full instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. Add potatoes to a large pot along with cold water or broth.
2. Place the pot on the stove on high and allow the water to come to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat and cook the potatoes until the potatoes are tender.
4. Drain the excess liquid from the pot.
5. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher.
6. Add in buttermilk, Greek yogurt or sour cream, butter, and spices.
7. Stir until creamy.

Over-Boiling the Potatoes

When you boil the potatoes for too long it will result in potatoes that are overcooked and absorb a lot of liquid. When you go to mash them, they will be soupy. Instead of having fluffy mashed potatoes, you will have a watery blob. If you are cooking your potatoes on the stovetop, keep a watchful eye.

If using an Instant Pot or pressure cooker, be sure not to use too much liquid.

How to Substitute Buttermilk

You can substitute milk, heavy cream, or half and half for buttermilk if you wish. You can read more about How to Substitute Buttermilk here.

Ideas for Add-ins and Substitutions

• Crumbled Bacon
• Cream Cheese
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• Parsley
• Green Onions
• Chives

How to Store/How Long Will They Last in the Fridge

You can store leftovers tightly sealed in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Can You Make Them Ahead

Because they will last a few days in the fridge you can make these ahead.

Freezer Tips

You can freeze these tightly sealed and they are best when used within a month. After that, they will start to get freezer burned and form ice crystals. Defrost overnight in the fridge.

Gravy Recipes

Turkey Gravy From Drippings
Yellow Gravy Without Drippings

Pair With These Main Dish Recipes

Southern Neck Bones
Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Baked Crab Legs
Tender Oxtail

Pair With these Side Dishes

Southern Black Eyed Peas with Smoked Turkey
Ham Hocks and Beans
Baked Corn on the Cob
Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Garlic