Easy Mashed Potatoes

 

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and sliced ½ inch thick

¾ tsp. table salt, plus salt for cooking potatoes

¾ cup half-and-half

6 T. unsalted butter

½ tsp. pepper

 

Place potatoes and 1 T. salt in large saucepan, add water to cover by 1 inch, and bring to boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until potatoes are tender and paring knife can be easily slipped in and out of potatoes, 18 to 22 minutes.  Meanwhile, combine half-and-half and butter in 2-cup liquid measuring cup and microwave, covered, until butter is melted and mixture is warm to touch, about 2 minutes. Drain potatoes and return them to saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring, until potatoes are thoroughly dried, about 30 seconds. Remove from heat and, using potato masher, mash potatoes until smooth and no lumps remain. Stir in half-and-half mixture, ¾ tsp. salt, and pepper until fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve.