Every potluck, my neighbor brings a big bowl of mashed potatoes with the skins still in. Little flecks of brown all through them. I’ve always peeled mine, every single potato, because that’s how my mother did it. I’ll admit I thought hers was a shortcut.
Then I took a second helping of hers. And a third.
The Case for Peeling
- Smooth, creamy texture. Peeled potatoes whip up silky, the way many of us grew up eating them.
- Classic look. Pure white mashed potatoes look the way people expect at Thanksgiving.
- Better for thick-skinned potatoes. Russets have tougher skins that can feel chewy in a mash.
The Case for Leaving the Skin On
- More flavor. The skin adds an earthy, “potato-ey” taste.
- More fiber and nutrients. Much of a potato’s fiber is in and just under the skin.
- Less work. No peeling means mashed potatoes on the table faster.
- Rustic texture. Some people love the bits of skin.
Pick the Right Potato
- Russet: fluffy and light. Peel these; the skin is thick.
- Yukon Gold: buttery and creamy, with thin skin. The best choice for skin-on mash.
- Red potatoes: thin skin and waxy texture. Great “smashed” with skins on.
Tips for Great Skin-On Mashed Potatoes
- Scrub the potatoes well with a brush under running water.
- Cut away any green spots or sprouts.
- Cut potatoes into even pieces so they cook at the same speed.
- Start them in cold salted water and simmer until a fork slides in easily.
- Drain well, then mash with warm milk and butter. Cold milk makes them gluey.
A Note on Green Skin
If a potato skin has turned green, peel that part away or skip the potato. Green spots can have more solanine, a natural compound that can cause an upset stomach.
So, Who’s Right?
Neither of us. It depends on the potato and the meal. Smooth and peeled is perfect for a holiday table. Skin-on Yukon Golds are hard to beat on a weeknight. I’ve started making both, and my neighbor has started asking for my peeled recipe for Christmas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need to peel Yukon Gold potatoes?
No. Their skin is thin and mashes in easily.
Are potato skins healthy?
Yes. They carry fiber and some vitamins and minerals.
Can I mix peeled and unpeeled?
Yes. Peel half for a mash that’s creamy with a little texture.
